I was invited on Monday as the Community Board Chair for Lowcountry Earth Force to witness Mayor Riley sign the Proclamation declaring April 19th-25th Volunteer Week in Charleston.  It was fun to visit City Hall and see the Council Chamber, we were even treated to some history about the enormous paintings in the Chamber (something about a horse's ass), but I digress.  What was really exciting was seeing all of the volunteers and Non-Profit organizations gathered to participate and witness the signing.  Mayor Riley invited some volunteers from the Lowcountry Children's Museum to come up and stand next to him as he signed the Proclamation declaring among other things, the critical role volunteering plays in meeting the needs of our community and keeping our economy moving. 

 I think we all realize after our last Presidential election the power individuals have to influence change.  By committing to a cause through service we can all make a difference in how our community looks, the types of activities available to our children, education and enlightenment and even driving legislature through our government. 

 I am personally a HUGE supporter of many of our wonderful Non-Profit and Charitable Organizations and I try to give of my time and resources as much as possible.  I am excited to expand our Non-Profit Education Tent at this years Charleston Green Fair and increase the amount of money we are able to give to these deserving organizations.   Each time my family and I spend an afternoon or a week-end volunteering we always feel fulfilled for weeks afterward.  It is a great thing for your own personal growth and there is nothing more valuable you can teach your children.  The success of our waste diversion efforts at last year's Green Fair would NOT have been possible without the help of 150 volunteers (many high school and college students). 

 I am especially delighted to see the diversity of the people who come out to help.  Social status, race and yearly income play no part in volunteering and helping others.  It is really something we can all do!  The best part is that when you get involved, you always learn something new.  Our family helped Earth Force and Clemson Exchange build a sustainable garden and I took that experience home to my own garden!  So get out there and get your hands dirty, it is sure to pay you back in spades!