NEWS
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Sunnyvale Celebrates Volunteers
During National Volunteer Week, April 21-27
Sunnyvale, CA (04/10/02) – Sunnyvale will join a
nationwide celebration in honor of volunteers during National Volunteer Week,
April 21-27. The week's theme,
"Celebrate the American Spirit - VOLUNTEER!" reflects the American
tradition of neighbor helping neighbor.
At the April 16 City Council meeting, Mayor Frederick M. Fowler will
issue a proclamation honoring Sunnyvale's volunteers and declaring the week of
April 21-27 National Volunteer Week in Sunnyvale.
"Widespread voluntary public service
strengthens communities by bridging the gaps between people," said Romola
Georgia, Sunnyvale's Manager of Volunteer Services. "The vast range of services that Sunnyvale's volunteers
provide is truly astonishing."
Sunnyvale's volunteers staff special events, operate recreation programs,
provide blood pressure screening and tax preparation for seniors, coach job
seekers in Internet skills, conduct property inspections, provide support for
law enforcement personnel, tutor at Sunnyvale schools, and serve as ushers,
researchers, advisors, and educators.
Volunteers increasingly bring specialized and
technological skills to the City. This
year, a volunteer spent over six months developing a complex financial tool to
track the Housing Division's loan portfolio.
Others are providing expertise on website and database development. Businesses, clubs, and youth groups are committing
to both one-day and continuing clean-up and repair projects in City Parks.
"I got to learn everything about the City -
from office procedures to the festivals, fairs, and ethnic events," said
Radhika Panday, a volunteer with the Communications Division of the City
Manager's Office. Another volunteer,
Rick Green, a former Vice-President of Sales and Marketing for a high tech
company, has been offering a Negotiation Class for job seekers at ProMatch for
over two years. "I enjoy what I'm
doing," said Rick. "In a
small way it gives me a chance to help someone else out. It has been fun."
Sunnyvale's unique community spirit is reflected in its residents' enthusiasm and commitment to volunteering. For information about Sunnyvale's Volunteer Program, call 730-7533 or visit the City's website at www.ci.sunnyvale.ca.us and follow the link to Volunteering.
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| Helen De Wolf takes blood pressure readings for seniors on Thursday mornings at the Senior Center. |  |
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Sunnyvale's Teen Council participates in community service projects and addresses issues related to teens. |
| A group of Special Event volunteers prepares thousands of fliers announcing Sunnyvale's Health and Safety Fair to go to all Sunnyvale Schools. |  |
