September 14, 2009

Problem: Our nation is facing serious challenges and cities are often, if not always, at the front lines.

Solution: Community service and volunteerism remains a great way to engage citizens to meet the new challenges facing the nation and create innovative ways to participate in our democracy.

Problem: People want to serve, but often lack information on opportunities that exist within their communities.

Solution: City halls, working with local community service providers, are ideally situated to organize comprehensive local strategies to promote service and highlight the opportunities to the public.

Problem: Often times, service opportunities that do exist are not targeted towards pressing community challenges.

Solution: Mayors can help recognize local needs and develop programs that target volunteer efforts where they are most critically needed.