Born to serve

Nebraskans are no strangers to community service. Lending a hand has been engrained in our culture since our state's earliest days, when neighbor helping neighbor was often a matter of survival on the untamed prairie. Today, that spirit of community service is still alive and well in Nebraska.

Our state consistently ranks above national averages when it comes to community service. More than a third of all Nebraskans participate in volunteer activities annually, ranking our state fifth in the nation in volunteer participation. Whether you live in the city, the suburbs or the family homestead, Nebraska scores high marks across the board in national volunteer rates, regardless of community setting. Nearly a half million Nebraskans devoted more than 50 million volunteer hours in 2012.

This year, the Nebraska Volunteer Service Commission marks two decades of promoting, coordinating and celebrating community service in our state. The Commission, Nebraska's branch of the Corporation for National and Community Service, brings Nebraskans of varying abilities, skills, backgrounds and interests together to strengthen communities through volunteer and service activities.

Next week, the Commission is hosting ServeNebraska Week--a great opportunity to showcase our commitment to our community and while helping fellow Nebraskans. During ServeNebraska Week, the Commission encourages folks across the state to engage in local service projects that address specific community needs. Each of Nebraska's 93 counties has volunteer ambassadors who help to facilitate projects tailored to local issues of interest.

Nebraska First Lady Sally Ganem is the honorary chair of ServeNebraska, and just last week she presented 11 awards to deserving Nebraskans who exemplify the spirit of volunteerism and selflessness. Their efforts to recognize a need in their community and give of their time and energy to address it not only improves the community at large, but also can touch the lives of so many individuals. I applaud Nebraska's First Lady and ServeNebraska for promoting their work and encouraging others to get involved.

I invite you to get involved in your community during this year's ServeNebraska Week and help us keep this pioneer spirit of service alive. Volunteer activities will be taking place in many communities across the state. You are welcome to participate in an organized activity, or you can register your own community event and share your story of service. For more information about ServeNebraska and how you can get involved, visit www.serve.nebraska.gov.

Our state's rich heritage of neighbor helping neighbor has played a leading role in making Nebraska a great place to live. Thank you to all who selflessly invest their time and skills in our communities, keeping this age-old tradition alive.