It is fitting that the first week of June, just after we honor our bravest on Memorial Day, be designated National Volunteer Week. After all, the members of our military have volunteered their lives to protect our Nation for over 200 years. With our soldiers in harms way every day in Iraq and Afghanistan it is clear that any service we can do here at home pales in comparison to their valor. But as we honor their service, each and every West Virginian should strive to volunteer here at home to help our communities in the best way possible.

There is never a shortage of organizations with which to volunteer in West Virginia. Whatever your interests, you can find a group to lend your services. Of course I encourage public service all the time from every West Virginian, but I realize that we already have huge time commitments at work and at home. As this week (June 1-7) is National Volunteer Week, I hope everyone will be able to take some time away from their busy schedules to volunteer. It is a perfect time to volunteer at your church, your local school or any of the other public service organizations in our area.

There are many organizations in need of extra volunteers and one of our Nation's most widespread public service organizations which is always looking for additional help is AmeriCorps. I have a particular affection towards AmeriCorps as I have known many people involved in AmeriCorps. In fact I have members of my Congressional staff who are AmeriCorps volunteer graduates, and I have volunteered for the AmeriCorps Energy Express program in southern West Virginia.

Energy Express has provided youth in West Virginia with a summer learning experience that will sharpen their scholastic skills and ensure that these children receive two nutritious meals each day. It was a pleasure to volunteer time with these children and I look forward to doing so again in the future.

Americorps has many more programs, projects and opportunities with which to volunteer. With the help of many West Virginia volunteers, AmeriCorps has been the hammer and nails that has helped build our communities over the past 11 years. It has contributed much to West Virginia, with achievements in public safety, public health, and disaster relief; just to name a few.

I personally have seen many of the benefits that AmeriCorps has contributed to West Virginia. For example, AmeriCorps volunteers help build houses for low-income families in West Virginia through local Habitat for Humanity programs. In Cabell County, the program has completed over 50 houses for local residents. This assistance has been a major help in fostering a strong sense of community among the local communities.

The strength of America has always been in the willingness of neighbors to help fellow neighbors, and through the power of generosity and public service, communities have cultivated a higher sense of compassion across our Nation. I challenge all of you to use your free time this week, National Volunteer Week, to help your neighbor by spending time volunteering in a local organization.