We are approaching National Volunteer Week (April 17-23) and it is time to shine a spotlight on this wonderful yearly event and to celebrate volunteers, recognize their impact, and encourage volunteerism in our communities. From Gallup, "Eighty-one percent of Americans say they donated money to a religious or other charitable organization in the past year, and 56% volunteered time to such an organization." (Source)

If your organization uses or relies on volunteers, chances are their hard work and dedication goes un-thanked most of the time. But not this year!

Whether your organization runs primarily off the work and energy of volunteers, or your volunteers supplement and support your regular staff, they’re an essential piece of what you do.

There's no better time to take a look at your organization's charitable contributions than National Charity Day! Whether you organize a Toys for Tots drive during the holidays, or your team partners with Habitat for Humanity to build a home in your community, a spirit of philanthropy is never EVER a bad investment.