Amy Biehl, a graduate of Santa Fe High School, understood that, as an American, she had it better than many people in much of the world. She also believed that she had a duty to give back—to make life better for others who were not so fortunate. To that end, Amy went to South Africa at the age of 26 as a Fulbright Scholar to help that country’s leaders develop a new constitution. While conducting voter registration for South Africa’s first all-race election—the election that would end apartheid—she was killed in a riot.

The 16th Annual Amy Biehl Youth Spirit Award winners in 2009 were Alejandra Carmona of Albuquerque and Fionna Walters of Mexican Springs. The Two honorees were Alex Wirth of Santa Fe and Arielle Hawney of Sapello.

Global Youth Service Day mobilizes youth to identify the needs of their community. Organizations participate by providing opportunities for youth engagement.

According to an article in Guidestar last fall, a group of nonprofit leaders were asked their most pressing problem and many responded that Board members "don't do what they are supposed to do." In the March edition, I discussed the importance of effective recruitment as a key in helping Board members understand our expectations of them.

Now let's look at two important keys to Retaining Great Board Members. Perhaps the keys might be defined as TIME and VALUE.

The NM Centennial currently is seeking a merchandising vendor. The deadline for submission is May 5, 2010. The full RFP can be found at this link: Merchandise RFP FINAL

While most news during tough times tends to focus on the bad, a new report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics' reveals that despite hardship, volunteer rates stayed strong in 2009.

In a press release "Volunteering Up Amid Tough Economic Times," Stephen Goldsmith, board chair of the Corporation for National and Community Service, says "We're seeing a compassion boom across this country, where communities are banding together and neighbors are reaching out in service to others. It is truly the generosity of the American spirit at its best. The need is great, the momentum is strong, and potential is unlimited for ushering in a new era of service in America."

It's that time of year again! A time when nonprofit organizations across the nation will be celebrating the volunteers, like you, who help them be great. Whether you've given an hour, a day, or made a long-term commitment to serve, National Volunteer Week is a time to celebrate your accomplishments and honor your dedication to giving back.

But it's not just a time to celebrate -- it's also one of the biggest weeks for volunteers to get involved in their communities and build a lasting relationship with a nonprofit.