What followed was volunteerism at its finest. In a moment of crisis, when the fates of many of the 121 passengers and crew were unknown, strangers rushed to their aid. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the residents and volunteers who responded quickly, efficiently and selflessly. It's a proud achievement, but we cannot begin to fully quantify the difference our volunteers make in the lives of the people they help and to the worthwhile causes they embrace. Volunteers give comfort, compassion and guidance.
Volunteers give hope.
They are tireless friends, who believe in the dignity of the human soul. Volunteers help people who suffer from addictions, those who are homeless, or are victims of violence. Volunteers are improving literacy, preventing crime, assisting in education. They offer the gentle hand that comforts seniors. They are mentors and motivators.