We join many other organizations in our community this week to celebrate our volunteers. National Volunteer Week is the perfect time to acknowledge the fact that much of the good work that is done by our organizations is done by volunteers.

We are grateful for the leadership of the United Way board of directors, for the expertise of those on our Success by 6 leadership team, LIFE advisory council, First Call for Help advisory board, our board committees, our review panels, campaign ambassadors, New Year's Eve committee and for the special commitment of our Read to Succeed volunteers and AmeriCorps members -- more than 150 of them this past school year -- working one-on-one with students and making a real difference.

Our thanks extend to all volunteer boards and service providers who work with our funded partner organizations and our other partners in the community. Most of these organizations would not exist without the help and support from their volunteers.

Thank you, on behalf of the United Way of Southeast Missouri, to volunteers. You hold the secret to happiness and real joy -- the joy of sharing yourself with others. You also know volunteerism is a positive factor in your overall health. You learn new skills and stretch yourself as you are exposed to new situations. You are truly blessed, and you bless those whose lives you touch. Our community is strong and healthy because of you.

Sincerely,

NANCY L. JERNIGAN, executive director, United Way of Southeast Missouri, Cape Girardeau