Volunteers pitch in giving 42,000 hours

Everyone knows we are in tough times. Now more than ever, we need to build partnerships to meet the needs of our community.

Every day, volunteers step in to help. On Wednesday, the City of Ventura honored the hundreds of local citizens who pitch in -- and last year contributed 42,000 hours of volunteer service to the community. Mayor Weir and Councilmembers Andrews, Morehouse and Summers all participated in paying tribute to Ventura's volunteer spirit.

Some wear uniforms, like our Volunteers in Policing (VIP) who provide a vital personal touch to everything from routine patrol along the beachfront promenade to assisting crime victims. Some keep a regular schedule, like Margie DeYoung, an 89 year old City Hall Ambassador who greets visitors at the front door all day every Tuesday with a smile and help at finding what they need. Some provide specialized services, like Bruce James, a professional photographer who assists the Fire Department with all the new digital tools that can help them do their jobs. Many, many just pitch in wherever and whenever they are needed, from cleaning beaches to organizing Neighborhood Watch.

Their contribution enhances our community at a time when the City Council has balanced our budget by making $11 million in cuts. Their service enriches our community by making a heartfelt commitment to what they do. Their volunteer spirit ennobles our community by demonstrating the unselfish love people have for Ventura.

Of course there are thousands more volunteers who give their time to civic, youth, cultural, environmental, religious and other organizations and causes in our city. All make a contribution to our quality of life and sense of place.

In fact, Ventura is a special place, in great part due to those efforts. Nationally, an authoritative study puts volunteer participation at 29% of adults. Our annual local citizen survey put it at 50% in Ventura.

There are lots of opportunities to not only serve the community, but to gain new skills and personal satisfaction as well. If you'd like to find out more about volunteer opportunities click here.