Service is one of America’s most defining features. It’s woven into our nation’s identity — the idea that anyone, regardless of education, wealth, or background, can roll up their sleeves and make a difference. You don’t need an advanced degree, a fancy job, or the right zip code to give back. At a time when our nation feels more divided than ever, volunteerism remains one of the few things that unites us.
This April, as we celebrate National Volunteer Month, Independent Sector and the Do Good Institute are releasing our latest calculation of the value of a volunteer hour: $34.79.
This figure highlights the powerful impact volunteers have on our economy and communities. But we can’t measure the value of service in dollars alone. Service offers something greater for all of us — a bridge across divides, a shared purpose, and a way to strengthen social connections.
Service has long been central to American life. From neighbors working together to rebuild after natural disasters, to community members tackling social challenges, volunteerism breaks across political and cultural boundaries. It offers everyone a chance to make a difference. This is what makes volunteerism so American.
Nonprofits are at the heart of this work. They provide the infrastructure and opportunities that make service possible — training volunteers, coordinating efforts, and creating pathways for people to contribute time and skills. Whether it’s mentoring youth, distributing meals, or supporting disaster relief, nonprofits harness volunteerism to strengthen communities and address urgent needs.
In an era marked by division, distrust, and growing social isolation, volunteerism offers a way to repair our nation’s social fabric. Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has described social isolation as an “epidemic of loneliness.” Volunteerism provides a powerful antidote by bringing people together around common goals, fostering empathy, understanding, and connection. When people work together — whether painting a community center, mentoring young people, or helping their neighbors recover from disasters — they are reminded of their shared humanity.
Volunteerism doesn’t just build community; it transforms individuals. It helps people see the world through the eyes of others, challenging them to break free from their own assumptions and build a deeper understanding of our shared experiences. That kind of empathy-building is essential if we are to bridge divides and create a society that works for everyone.
Our work calculating the value of volunteer time is one way to honor the millions of Americans who dedicate their energy and skills to improving their communities. But volunteerism itself is far more than an economic metric. It’s a testament to our capacity for generosity, compassion, and shared action.
If we want to address our most pressing challenges — from deepening political divides to the mental health crisis exacerbated by isolation — we need to reinvest in volunteerism.
And that requires celebrating volunteers not just during National Volunteer Month, but all year round. It requires strengthening the nonprofit sector, ensuring volunteers have the support, resources, and infrastructure they need to make meaningful contributions.
Dr. Akilah Watkins
Imagine a future where service is a foundational part of American life, where young people are encouraged to give back and gain valuable life experiences through service. A future where everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to make a difference.
As we celebrate Volunteer Month this April, let’s remember that service is more than an act of kindness — it’s a fundamental expression of who we are as Americans. This year, I invite every American to embrace the power of service. Whether you give an hour, a day, or a lifetime, your contribution matters. It matters not just for the communities you serve, but for the country we share. Together, we can build a more united America, one act of service at a time.
Dr. Akilah Watkins is president and CEO of Independent Sector.
