The New Jersey Governor’s Office of Volunteerism, which operates within the New Jersey Department of State, encourages our residents to recognize April as National Volunteer Month.

National Volunteer Month was first established in 1990 and has been celebrated each April since as a time to recognize the contributions of volunteers in our communities and inspire volunteerism and civic action. In New Jersey alone, the 1.4 million volunteers provide more than 105 million hours of service.

The Governor’s Office of Volunteerism supports New Jersey’s volunteers with training and recognition while matching community needs in partnership with volunteer centers, disaster response organizations, business volunteers, schools, colleges, faith-based organizations and community organizations. Whether you choose to participate through individual action or pledging to volunteer in your community, thanking and recognizing volunteers, becoming a sponsor, joining AmeriCorps, planning a volunteer or community event in April— the Governor’s Office of Volunteerism has resources to get you started.
The Governor’s Office of Volunteerism will recognize National Volunteer Month with its annual conference, hosted in partnership with the New Jersey Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NJVOAID), on April 11, 2024. More information about this year’s program, The Power of Community: Sparking Innovation, is available at https://www.njvoad.org/2024-conference/ .

“Volunteers build, grow, and support our communities across New Jersey,” said Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, who oversees the Governor’s Office of Volunteerism in her capacity as Secretary of State. “We are grateful for the way that New Jersey residents give their time, talent, and energy by volunteering to help those in need. April is a great time to recognize the efforts of volunteers across our state and join them in the work of serving others.”

“New Jersey’s volunteers reflect the rich diversity of our state, as people of all backgrounds lend their support to our fellow residents in times of need,” said Rowena Madden, a lifelong volunteer who leads the Office of Volunteerism as Executive Director. “We encourage residents to join us in volunteering, in April and throughout the year, as we share in the work of supporting our communities and improving the lives of those around us.”

The Office of Volunteerism also reminds the public of the following special dates recognized during April:
• April 14: Good Deeds Day
• April 21–27: National Volunteer Week
• April 22: Earth Day