[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 46 (Tuesday, April 23, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E605]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               IN RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK

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                         HON. J. DENNIS HASTERT

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 23, 2002

  Mr. HASTERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today at the start of National 
Volunteer Week to recognize the invaluable contributions of volunteers 
to communities across the nation.
  From the earliest days of our Nation's history, the spirit of 
volunteer service has been reflected by neighbors helping one another 
to overcome obstacles in the pursuit of happiness. The freedom and 
individual rights at the core of our society come from a shared 
responsibility for the health and well being of our communities and for 
each other.
  National Volunteer Week is a time to recognize and celebrate the 
efforts of volunteers who play such an integral part in creating a 
sense of community and shared responsibility for our future. This 
year's National Volunteer Week theme, ``Celebrate the American Spirit--
VOLUNTEER!'' is particularly appropriate as we continue to witness the 
outpouring of contributions and compassion following the September 11 
terrorist attacks. By celebrating the volunteer spirit, we can show the 
world that helping is healing for our country and can encourage men, 
women, and children to help make positive changes in the lives of 
others.
  Volunteerism not only improves the lives of others, it builds a sense 
of community, breaks down barriers between people and develops 
leadership skills. Americans, young and old alike, can and do play 
important roles in our communities. For as long as the American people 
volunteer their time for the benefit of their neighbors, America's 
community spirit will continue to hold tremendous promise for the 
future.

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