04-21-26 Douglas County Commissioners Celebrate National Volunteer Week (Photo) - 04/21/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 21, 2026

Douglas County Commissioners Celebrate National Volunteer Week

(Douglas County, Ore.) — In honor of National Volunteer Week (April 19-26), the Douglas County Board of Commissioners proudly recognize and thank the many volunteers who dedicate their time, talent, and compassion to serving Douglas County government and the broader community. 

Thank you to the more than 100 community volunteers who serve on County advisory boards, committees, and councils—including the Planning Advisory Committees, Fair Board, Budget Committee, Seniors Advisory Council, Parks Advisory Board, Veterans Advisory Council, Dog Control Board, Noxious Weed Advisory Board, Local Public Safety Coordinating Council, Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Committee, Property Values Appeals Board, Committee for Citizen Involvement, and Traffic Safety Commission.  These individuals play a vital role in shaping programs, policies, and services that benefit all Douglas County residents.  The Commissioners also extend appreciation to the many hands-on volunteers who provide direct support for county services across Douglas County, including:

• Douglas County Meals on Wheels and Senior Dining Site volunteers, who prepare and deliver over 80,000 meals annually to seniors in need, helping ensure nutrition and connection for some of our most vulnerable residents.
• Douglas County Search & Rescue volunteers, who work with local law enforcement, train extensively, and respond when residents need help the most.
• Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard, the highly trained volunteer honor guard provides dignified recognition and respect for service, sacrifice, and community milestones, especially honoring law enforcement personnel and public service traditions.
• Douglas County Parks Camp Hosts and Adopt-a-Park volunteers, who help maintain and enhance the beauty, safety, and accessibility of our county parks.
• Salmon Harbor - Winchester Bay RV Resort Park Hosts, who help maintain and enhance the beauty, safety, and accessibility of our county assets in Winchester Bay.
• Douglas County Fairgrounds volunteers, who assist with events, judge competitions, and support operations that bring the community together year-round.
• Douglas County Work Crew volunteers help provide structured opportunities for individuals to fulfill their mandated service hours in a meaningful, supervised, and socially beneficial way.
• Douglas County Museum of History and Natural History and Umpqua Lighthouse Museum volunteers, who help preserve, share, and provide tours of the diverse and rich history of our region.
• Douglas County Emergency Management and Disaster Response volunteers, including those serving through CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service), 211, American Red Cross, United Way, Salvation Army, 988, and many others who step up in times of crisis to support our community.

The Commissioners similarly offer special recognition to Courthouse Greeter Bill Crenshaw, whose welcoming presence and helpful smile make a lasting impression on everyone who visits the Douglas County Courthouse.  In addition to those serving in official County roles, the Commissioners also extend their sincere appreciation to the countless community volunteers who support local nonprofits, service organizations, councils, faith-based groups, veterans, and neighborhood initiatives. These individuals quietly strengthen the fabric of Douglas County every day lending a helping hand, uplifting those in need, and making our communities more connected, resilient, and compassionate.

Established in 1974 and observed as part of Global Volunteer Month, National Volunteer Week recognizes the significant contributions of volunteers and the essential role they play in meeting community needs through service, personal responsibility, and local action. Volunteers embody the spirit of self-reliance and neighbor helping neighbor ideologies that strengthen communities and support local solutions.  Their stories serve to inspire others to act, to realize their power to make a difference, and be a force that transforms the world.

The Value of Volunteers:  The impact of volunteerism extends far beyond service—it represents a significant economic contribution. According to Independent Sector, as of April 2025, the estimated value of volunteer time in Oregon is $36.44 per hour, surpassing the 2025 national average of $34.79.  This figure reflects the measurable economic impact of volunteer efforts and is an important tool for nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations when evaluating programs and pursuing grant funding. Notably, the value of volunteer time in Oregon has steadily increased from $29.75 in 2020 to $36.44 in 2025.

A Community Effort: “Volunteers are truly the heart of Douglas County,” stated Commissioner Tim Freeman. “Whether they are serving on advisory boards, delivering meals, responding in emergencies, or supporting community events, their dedication makes a real and lasting difference. We are incredibly grateful for the time, energy, and compassion they give to help keep our communities strong.”

During National Volunteer Week and throughout the year, the Douglas County Board of Commissioners encourages residents to take time to recognize and support local volunteers, and to consider getting involved in the many service opportunities that strengthen our community.  Visit the Douglas County website at douglascountyor.gov or justserve.org for volunteer opportunities in Douglas County.  These efforts help preserve and enhance Douglas County as a great place to live, work, and enjoy life.

"Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart." — Elizabeth Andrew, Author.

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Media Contact: Tamara Howell, Chief Public Affairs Officer | Douglas County Public Affairs Office | Office: (541) 957-4896 |

Cell: (541) 670-2804 | Email: tamara.howell@douglascountyor.gov