As part of Global Volunteer Month and National Volunteer Week, held April 18-24, 2021, the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa (CFNEIA) is celebrating its more than 350 volunteers who serve 23 affiliate community foundations across a 20-county region. CFNEIA is also calling attention to how volunteering can benefit both the volunteer and the entire community.

The Tama County Community Foundation is a CFNEIA affiliate and volunteers who serve on the local governing committee include: Gloria Fonseca, Dixie Forcht, Sara Forrester (chair), Darvin Graham, Mary Ann Gregory, Angie Jacobs, Melanie Kemper, Chris Schafer and Sandy Supianoski. Community Foundation volunteers assist with important grant decisions and promoting the impacts being made in their communities.

“To put it simply, our work throughout Iowa would not be possible without these dedicated volunteers,” said Kaye Englin, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa. “We thank our local leaders for their commitment to making their community a better place for everyone. While our state is a leader in volunteerism, we hope people continue to be generous with their time through volunteering. It’s a win for everyone.”

According to a 2018 study by the US Census Bureau, Iowa is among the top five states with the most volunteers. The report shows the largest age group of volunteers nationally is Generation X (between 40 and 54 years old), who are still in the work force. And, statistically, more women than men volunteer.

The individual benefits of volunteering range from improved mental and physical health, self-esteem and overall happiness to the development of job skills and building a network. Studies have shown that employers also benefit from the upside of volunteerism with higher employee engagement and morale. And, of course, volunteerism benefits the organizations who rely on this group of qualified and caring people to provide guidance and support in various capacities.

CFNEIA recommends individuals interested in volunteering contact their local volunteer center to see what area opportunities are available. Also, consider the skills and talents you could share as a volunteer with an organization or cause that is important to you.

If you are interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities with the Tama County Community Foundation, contact Terry Gaumer, affiliate development director with CFNEIA at tgaumer@cfneia.org or 319-243-1354. For more information about the Tama County Community Foundation, visit www.tamaccf.org.