[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 16 (Monday, April 28, 2008)]
[Pages 580-581]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8244--National Volunteer Week, 2008

 April 22, 2008

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Through countless acts of kindness, volunteers across America are 
changing our Nation for the better. During National Volunteer Week, we 
recognize those who take the time to help their fellow citizens realize 
the full potential of America.
    Through volunteer work, Americans can demonstrate the kindness and 
generosity that make our Nation great. Mentoring a child, teaching 
someone to read, visiting the elderly, feeding the hungry, and finding 
shelter for the homeless are all examples of how Americans can and do 
aid those in need. Americans are volunteering in record numbers. Each 
year, millions of Americans volunteer, and more of our fellow citizens 
are discovering that the pursuit of happiness leads to the path of 
service. The cumulative effort of the love and compassion from our 
Nation's volunteers will help secure a more hopeful future for all our 
citizens.
    My Administration remains committed to building a culture of 
service, citizenship, and responsibility. The USA Freedom Corps 
strengthens civic engagement and volunteer service in America and helps 
people connect with volunteer opportunities. By visiting the USA Freedom 
Corps website at volunteer.gov, individuals can find information about 
ways they can help in their local areas and across the country.
    The strength of America comes from its compassionate and loving 
citizens. National Volunteer Week is an opportunity to show appreciation 
for our Nation's volunteers. The time and energy they dedicate to 
helping those in need reflect the true spirit of America.
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and 
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 27 through May 3, 
2008, as National Volunteer Week. I call upon all Americans to recognize 
and

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celebrate the important work that volunteers do every day throughout our 
country. I also encourage citizens to explore ways to help their 
neighbors in need and serve a cause greater than self.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-second 
day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
second.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 9:11 a.m., April 24, 
2008]

Note: This proclamation was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on April 23, and it was published in the Federal Register on 
April 25.