DENIS LAW: 4,000 volunteers help make community run

April is Volunteer Month and I want to take this opportunity to celebrate the spirit of volunteerism that defines our community. Volunteers continue to make a big difference; last year more than 4,000 volunteers contributed more than 60,000 hours of service to the Renton community. Their contribution and their personal commitment to serve make our community unique and special. Some of our volunteers have served for more than 35 years.

By Denis Law • April 15, 2010 1:36 pm

April is Volunteer Month and I want to take this opportunity to celebrate the spirit of volunteerism that defines our community. Volunteers continue to make a big difference; last year more than 4,000 volunteers contributed more than 60,000 hours of service to the Renton community. Their contribution and their personal commitment to serve make our community unique and special. Some of our volunteers have served for more than 35 years.

Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting and expanding the services we provide, especially during these hard economic times. By providing time and resources, volunteers help reduce our costs and enhance the services we offer. Volunteers also help connect us to our community and give us valuable feedback and direction. In Renton, we are also very fortunate to have the dedication and generosity of service clubs and local business owners who are always ready to volunteer, provide generous donations, and help meet some of the growing needs in our community.

We have numerous stories of volunteers who have made a difference. Community volunteers who roll-up their sleeves to help maintain our parks by removing invasive plants and litter, raking leaves, cleaning signs, and scrubbing picnic tables; Community Emergency Response Team members who are trained and ready to serve if disaster strikes; customer service volunteers who provide information and referral to visitors at City Hall; and the numerous volunteers who participate as members of a board, commission, committee or task force.

Most of our volunteers shy away from recognition. However, their efforts have made a difference for friends and neighbors in need. Without their commitment and dedication, our city would not be what it is today.

Volunteering is fun, interesting and a way to meet lots of wonderful people with similar interests. It also provides an opportunity to share unique ideas and perspectives to help shape the future of our community.

If you would like to volunteer please contact my office at 425-430-6500 or visit rentonwa.gov.

Mayor Denis Law can be reached at dlaw@rentonwa.gov.