Governor Reestablishes N.C. Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service

Press Release

Signs Executive Order while participating in a volunteer activity in Asheville

Gov. Bev Perdue today signed Executive Order No. 41 reestablishing the N.C. Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service. The order was signed while Gov. Perdue participated in a home refurbishing volunteer project in Asheville.

"This year, more than any other time in our lives, our neighbors and communities need all of us to reach out with a helping hand," said Perdue. "As governor I've asked all North Carolinians to make service a way of life. We're reenergizing this important group and getting more businesses and community members engaged in service."

The N.C. Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service, first established in 1994, is charged with developing and implementing a comprehensive statewide service plan for promoting and recognizing volunteerism in North Carolina. In addition, the Commission administers four volunteer programs:

AmeriCorps -- A network of national service programs that engages individuals each year to meet educational, environmental, public safety, homeland security or human service needs for nonprofits, public agencies and faith-based organizations in North Carolina.

Governor's Page Program -- A week-long program for students between the ages of 15-18 that provides North Carolina high school students an opportunity to gain hands-on experience by working in state government.

Governor's Volunteer Service Awards -- Recognizes outstanding citizens in our state for their exemplary service in their communities.

Citizen Corps -- A national volunteer initiative funded by the Department of Homeland Security that provides opportunities for people in the state to volunteer to better prepare themselves and their community for any kind of emergency or disaster.

As Governor, Bev Perdue has made volunteerism and community service a priority. In addition, to today's project in Asheville, Gov. Perdue has participated in a number of volunteer activities including reading to children, planting a garden for the hungry, and serving Meals-on-Wheels. She has also called on family, staff and all North Carolinians to become more involved in their communities.

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