April is National Volunteer Month, a time dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the invaluable contributions of volunteers across the nation. This month-long observance encourages individuals to engage in volunteer activities, fostering a spirit of community and service.
Volunteers play a crucial role in delivering various societal needs, from supporting the less fortunate to environmental cleanup. Their selfless dedication helps build stronger, more resilient communities. National Volunteer Month serves as a reminder that even small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to join the movement of volunteerism.
One exemplary group of volunteers is the University of Iowa Staff Council. Throughout the year, the Staff Council engages in numerous volunteer activities, making a significant impact on both the university and the surrounding community. Between June 2024 and February 2025, Staff Council members contributed over 483 hours of service to 27 different community events.
Some of our favorite volunteer include:
Special Olympics Spring Classic: Volunteers assist with event setup, registration, and supporting athletes in various sports competitions.
Dance Marathon: Staff Councilors support the University of Iowa’s Dance Marathon by engaging with kids and their families, helping with registration, and helping families navigate the event.
Shelter House Events: Staff Council members supported a number of fundraising events hosted by the Shelter House including their BBQ Bash, Gala dinner, and Book Drive.
Holiday Lights by the Lake: Councilors helped with set-up, directing traffic, taking donations, and tear-down.
Highway Clean-up: Each spring and fall Staff Councilors meet at Kent Park to clean up our Adopted Highway section.
If you’d like to see what other events Staff Council has attended, visit our Volunteerism website at https://staff-council.uiowa.edu/volunteerism.
These activities not only benefit the community but also foster a sense of camaraderie and purpose among the volunteers. The University of Iowa Staff Council's dedication to volunteerism exemplifies the spirit of National Volunteer Month, inspiring others to get involved and make a difference.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Month, let's take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of volunteers from all over. Their efforts remind us that together, we can create positive change and build a better future for all.