Nearly 78 million Americans volunteered in 2019, collectively serving 5.8 billion hours with an economic value of $147 billion. These hard-working individuals make our communities better places to live by dedicating their free time to ensure all needs are met. They are there when disaster strikes and ensure rural communities throughout our state have firefighters and paramedics. We must recognize the efforts of volunteers and encourage our residents to find ways to make a difference in their communities. 
  
For this reason, I plan to introduce a resolution recognizing the month of April 2025 as “National Volunteer Month” in Pennsylvania. Volunteering not only benefits communities, but also the volunteers themselves. Volunteerism builds social skills and relationships and leads to better health and employment outcomes. 
  
Please join me in co-sponsoring this resolution and honor the volunteers that heed the call to serve their communities, no matter how big or small the effort. Your consideration is greatly appreciated.