Volunteers work hardest

Labor Day in this great country usually marks an occasion for two phenomena: first, to honor the nation's work force - the most hard-working and productive in history; second, for working families to take a well-earned day off to enjoy family get-togethers, neighborhood barbecues, or a good movie or sports event.

But the death, devastation and misery wrought by Katrina is focusing attention on another, often overlooked, segment of workers - volunteers. Where would we be without them?

They come from every walk of life - business executives, doctors, nurses, lawyers, clergy, accountants, social workers, construction workers, truck drivers, secretaries, watresses. They all have skills or labor to offer - and, within reason, they offer it freely wherever and whenever it's needed.

Today, thousands of these volunteers are meeting the life-sustaining needs of the tens of thousands of victims crated by Hurricane Katrina's wrath. Most of us give money to help victims of catastrophic events and that's a wonderful thing, always to be encouraged - but volunteers give the sweat off their brow. Without them the money wouldn't help.

The American Red Cross and Salvation Army could not exist without volunteers, and neither could other lesser-known charitable organizations that are also doing to much to bring vital services - shelter, food, clothing and medical aid - to the hurricane survivors, as well as emotional and spiritual help.

Volunteers don't just show up in times of emergency. They are active year-round. Anyone familiar with Habitat for Humanity or their local United Way understands that volunteerism is a crucial element to a community's well-being and stability.

According to a resource group for non profit organizations, about 109 million Americans, or 56 percentof adults, volunteer their labor each year. On average, they contribute about 3.5 hours a week, totaling 20 billion hours with an estimated financial value of $225 billion.

Cynical about the younger generation? Don't be. Nearly 60 percent of teenagers also average about 3.5 hours of volunteer work per week - which adds another 13.3. million volunteers to the mix, totaling 2.4 billion hours at a dollar value of $7.7 billion.

The nonprofitsetor cannot takt the place of government programs, but it is a necessary supplement ot them. Many people in their ordinary jobs don't really feel like they're making a difference, but in their volunteer work they certainly do.

Volunteers report that being a part of a great humanitarian operation often brings them far more satisfaction and fulfillment than any other sphere of their working life. In fact, most volunteers say they work harder at their volunteer jobs than at their regular jobs.

This is a good day to pause and give thanks to our nation's volunteer workers - and to encourage even more Americans to participate. It's not hard. Just get in touch with your favorite charity and ask when you can do to help.