Letters to the Editor
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‘City Lags in Volunteerism, Study Finds’
Although New York scored a disappointing third from the bottom among 50 cities, we believe the state of volunteerism in New York City is, in fact, far more encouraging [New York, “City Lags in Volunteerism, Study Finds,” July9,2007].
It’s a well-known fact that New Yorkers have big hearts. And while factors such as lack of time and lower home ownership, poverty, and education rates are identified as big city barriers to volunteering, we see New Yorkers getting involved in record numbers.
In just the last 12 months, New York Cares, NYC’s leading volunteer organization, increased our capacity by 20%, enabling 33,000 New Yorkers to serve 335,000 of their neighbors in need.
Our work with corporations doubled in the last two years, with hundreds of companies engaging employees in service. Our Youth Service Clubs, piloted just three years ago, now work with youth volunteers in 23 inner city schools.
New York Cares was founded 20 years ago to make it easier for busy people to volunteer. By working with 850 nonprofits and city agencies, we create 900 projects a month addressing the city’s most pressing needs. If people have time to give — even a few hours — New York Cares can help them use that time to make a difference.
New York Cares’ continuing growth is proof that New Yorkers want to give — not only their money, but also theirtime.
We’re looking forward to the future and an up tick in our ranking. We urge all New Yorkers to join us in working towards this goal and help make the greatest city in the worldevengreater.
Gail Harris
President
Board of Directors
New York Cares
New York, N.Y.
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