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Volunteering

Volunteering is unpaid service that people give to their communities, schools, charities, and government programs. Public agencies rely on volunteers in areas such as emergencies, weather watching, and national service. Programs, training, and legal protections vary by state and by organization.

People usually ask why and how to volunteer, how to find a reliable program, and what training or certification a role needs. They also ask how volunteer service connects to public service, how government programs recruit volunteers, and what protections volunteers have.

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October 5last updated

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All Articles on Volunteering

Painted illustration of a volunteer passing collected riverbank litter to a municipal worker.
Volunteering

Why Americans Serve: A Guide to Volunteering and Public Service

Contributing to society takes many forms. Some people dedicate unpaid hours to local causes. Others pursue careers in government or nonprofits. Both paths share…

By
GovFacts
37 Min Read
Conceptual painting of volunteers training to report weather observations.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Steps to Becoming a Certified Weather Spotter

Weather spotter training connects volunteers with the National Weather Service. Local enrollment, reporting instructions and safety shape how to participate.

By
GovFacts
15 Min Read