Fewer are taking time to volunteer

Fewer are taking time to volunteer, according to a report by McClatchy Newpapers.

Data released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show that both the number of volunteers and the volunteer rate — the percentage of the population that volunteers — declined in 2007 from 2006.

About 60.8 million Americans 16 and older volunteered in 2007, compared with a high of 65.3 million in 2005.

The proportion of that population that did unpaid work for an organization last year was 26.2 percent, compared with 28.8 percent in 2005 (a percentage that had held steady for several years).

The numbers and the trend are disturbing, the report notes.. How can it be that three-fourths of the population is so disconnected or cares so little about any project or cause that they don't spare a few hours in a year to help out?

During Lent we often think about “giving up something..” It also might be a good time to “give something” of your time, talent and treasure. Click on the headline to view a list of all the organizations and ministires at St. Paul you might help.