This week is National Volunteer Week. I want to take this opportunity to recognize the impact of volunteer service and the power of volunteers to tackle society's greatest challenges, build stronger communities and be a force that transforms the world. We want to highlight the people and causes that inspire us to serve, recognizing and thanking volunteers throughout Ossining who lend their time, talent, and voice to make a difference in our community and beyond.
Today, as people strive to lead lives that reflect their values, the expression of civic life has evolved. Whether online, at the office, or the local food bank, whether with a vote, a voice, or a wallet – doing good comes in many forms, and we recognize and celebrate them all. The tremendous power of volunteers and volunteerism has been on dramatic display in our response to the COVID-19 pandemic. All across our community, retired doctors and nurses, students and veterans, Village personnel, and countless others have given their time and talent to administer vaccines, staff vaccination centers, boost testing, tracing, and other life-saving public health measures, and provide food, and other necessities to those at heightened risk so they can remain safely at home.
Volunteers of all ages and walks of life have stepped forward in other ways to meet this moment. Throughout this unprecedented year, people have given help and hope by checking on isolated seniors, helping the jobless, and tutoring students to help them stay on track in school. Their compassion reminds us that even in our darkest hours, we look out for one another.
I am proud and grateful to live in a community that has over 230 registered non-profits, 20 faith-based organizations with their own volunteers, and more recently, over three dozen grass roots organizations that are tackling Covid-19 related issues, are feeding the hungry, tackling racial and gender inequities, and supporting our schools.
In addition to all that, the Village of Ossining has 13 community-based boards, councils, and commissions with over 104 participants. Community members’ participation helps to ensure that our local government is truly addressing the Village's needs through each board's services, planning, and decision-making. Community members, who sit on these boards and councils, provide time, talent, knowledge, and enthusiasm, which is added to, and enhances the work of elected officials and Village staff to make our Village better every day. I am grateful for the ongoing contributions they all make throughout the year.
When more people step forward to serve, it renews our sense of community and strengthens our democracy. Acts of service unite people from different backgrounds and allow us to see and hear one another honestly. The Village Board and I salute every person who takes time to help their neighbors, and we applaud the extraordinary faith-based, non-profit, government service, military service, and community organizations that make this service possible.
