In a week when our hearts are heavy with the weight of yesterday’s tragedy at Virginia Tech and the Anniversary of the shooting at Columbine High School, it is important that we also remember America’s tremendous capacity for selfless acts of goodness.  I refer to a spirit that sets aside superficial desires in favor of the needs of our fellow human beings, a spirit that shows our nation at its best, the spirit honored during this National Volunteer Week.

Last year, more than ¼ of Americans dedicated their time to bettering their communities, inspiring by example, and improving lives.  I am fortunate to represent a community in which passionate leadership and dedicated citizenry has enacted community service projects on every scale throughout Louisville.  The work of groups like Volunteers of America, Everyone Reads, Home of the Innocents, the Boy and Girl Scouts of America, Big Brother/Big Sister, CASA, and so many others do the work that makes us all proud to call Louisville home.

I hope this week does not stand alone in honoring our generous citizens and organizations, and I urge every citizen to join them in discovering the rewards that volunteering has to offer.  I yield back the balance of my time.