Editor,
I’d be willing to wager that 100 years from now, Vermont communities will still be grappling with critical issues that impact the well-being of seniors: hunger, heating, transportation and isolation. We will also still be trying to find that balance between state and federal budgets that provide for our neighbors in need.

One thing is for sure, though, we will still have a robust safety net of volunteers that step up to serve their neighbors in need by delivering meals, providing rides to the doctor, and checking in on their well-being.

This is the week to reach out and thank those that serve. It is National Volunteer Week, when we take heart that the lives of those in our communities are better off because of the service of others.

Volunteers give back for so many reasons. They are empowered by their faith, driven by a sense of civic duty, are interested in meeting new people and learning something new, or simply because “Mom told me to.” However, it’s not the “why” but the “what” and “when” that makes such a difference in people’s lives.

Please join me in saying a heartfelt “Thank You!” to our neighbors, co-workers, and friends for their service. Without them, it just wouldn’t be Vermont.

Daniel Noyes
Director of RSVP