April 19-25 marks National Volunteer Week, a time to recognize and celebrate those who generously give their time, talents, and energy to make a difference.

At the Elk County Community Foundation and McKean County Community Foundation, we are fortunate to work with a wide range of dedicated volunteers. This includes our Women Who Care and Women’s Giving Circle Steering and Planning Committees, local students who assist with Annual Report distribution, and community members who lend a hand with mailings and special projects throughout the year. Our board members bring a high level of commitment and leadership to the continued success of the Foundations.

We are also continually inspired by the volunteers who serve within the many organizations we support. Through our grantmaking, the Foundations partner with groups that are making a meaningful impact across our communities—and in many cases, that impact is made possible by volunteers working both in visible roles and behind the scenes.

While we could name many of the organizations we’ve supported, that list continues to grow. What remains constant is the important role volunteers play in making that work possible. If you’ve ever thought about volunteering but aren’t sure where to start, the Elk County Community Foundation and McKean County Community Foundation can help point you toward organizations doing great work in our communities.

Volunteerism takes many forms. Whether it’s helping at events, offering professional skills, or supporting day-to-day operations, each contribution matters. Many organizations rely on volunteers to provide services that might not otherwise be available.

In recognition of Volunteer Recognition Day, we encourage everyone to take a moment to thank a volunteer and consider how their own time and talents might benefit a cause they care about. There is always a place for those willing to get involved.

The Community Foundation of the Northern Alleghenies is the parent company of the Elk County Community Foundation and the McKean County Community Foundation. Our common mission is to enhance the quality of life in the local area as we strengthen our region through development, stewardship, and grant making. Our Foundations work with donors to support a variety of nonprofit organizations through grants and special projects.

For more information or to get connected with volunteer opportunities, contact Tiffany Boschert, Executive Director, at tboschert@elkcountyfoundation.org or tboschert@mckeancountyfoundation.org, or visit www.northernalleghenies.org.