Volunteering in WV - It's just a way of Life!

​Volunteer West Virginia's  disaster and volunteer initiatives connect thousands of people with training and service opportunities. AmeriCorps and VISTA volunteers serve at more than 472 sites, expanding the capacity of nonprofits. These members contribute more than $4.5 million to local economies each year! AmeriCorps member frequently find employment as a result of service (43% in 2015). Additionaly, in rural areas, unemployed volunteer are 55% more likely to find employment than non-volunteers.

"One of the most important and successful stories of West Virginia is its story of service. The Volunteer West Virginia 2016 Annual Report tells part of that story. The Commission's State Service Plan aligns its work in three important areas: Meeting Critical Community Needs, Expanding Civic Engagement, and Collaboration with Nonprofit and Service Partners.

The story of our work during the months followiung the June Flooding became one of the best examples of citizen-led problem solving and leadership. Community volunteers stepped in to help families find safe housing, ensure children received the care they deserve, and identified unique solutions to pressing challenges. You asked questions and we found soluntions together... Our communities led the way as we set up volunteer reception centers, and connected thousands of individuals who wanted to  help families that needed help...  - Heather Foster, Exectuive Director & Sammy Gray, Commission Chair

Learn more about how Volunteerism and Service has strengthened West Virginia communities by visiting Volunteer West Virginia's 2016 Annual Report.