Governor Quinn Hosts "On the Table" Discussion on Volunteerism and Service

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn today hosted volunteer and community leaders from across the Chicago area for a discussion focused on the future of volunteerism and service in civic life. The roundtable discussion, hosted by the Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service, is part of the Chicago Community Trust's 99th anniversary "On the Table: Service Edition" celebration. Today's event is part of Governor Quinn's commitment to fostering volunteer service in Illinois.

"Illinois is blessed with thousands of people who give their time and talent to worthy causes," Governor Quinn said. "Today's program helps us chart a course for volunteer service and remind everyone how valuable donated efforts can be. The heart of Illinois is the heart of a volunteer."

Thousands of Illinois residents also gathered across Chicago during the day to participate in a community-wide conversation about volunteerism and its role in the future of the Chicago area. On June 10, Serve Illinois plans to further engage Illinois leaders in recognizing the potential of volunteers through a Senate Resolution on Service.

"Service equals strength for our communities and for our state, and events like this can inspire great ideas to enhance Illinois' volunteer infrastructure," Serve Illinois Executive Director Brandon Bodor said. "We are thrilled that ‘On the Table' is spurring these conversations because individuals who step up and volunteer have always been what drives action in this country."

Governor Quinn is committed to promoting volunteerism in Illinois. Last month he presented 23 Illinois residents and four businesses with the Governor's Volunteer Service Award to recognize and honor those who have made positive changes to our state through their efforts.

The Serve Illinois Commission is a 40 member, bipartisan board appointed by the Governor. Its mission is to improve Illinois communities by enhancing volunteerism and instilling an ethic of service. The Commission is accomplishing this mission through the support of local community-based efforts to enhance volunteer opportunities and the administration of Illinois' AmeriCorps program. For more information on Serve Illinois, or to find one of over 40,000 volunteer opportunities in the state, visit Serve.Illinois.gov.