By: Pamela Rachal

Volunteer Appreciation Week is April 20-25, 2026

The 2026 Volunteer theme is “Shining a Light on Our Volunteers”.  The Fort Gordon Installation takes pride in highlighting the people and causes that inspire service.  We take this time to recognize the volunteers who daily serve us, their many contributions, to celebrate the spirit of compassion, and to recognize Fort Gordon’s volunteers.

Every individual has the power to make a difference, helping to make our communities healthy and vibrant.  It is important to know that volunteering can help us find our purpose and turn our passions into meaningful change.

One of our military’s greatest strengths has always been the unique commitment of our volunteers to improving the lives of others.  Americans have always answered the call to help those in need, at home and around the world.  This service is fundamental to our nation’s character and is renewed each day by our corps of volunteers who generously give their time and talents to help others.

Volunteering helps to stabilize our community by fostering community cohesion, increasing self-reliance, and helping to enhance the well-being of our men and women in uniform, civilians, and families.

We recognize the impact of each volunteer, whether big or small; they all help to create change, improve well-being, and inspire others to volunteer as well.  Volunteering allows people to acquire new skills, meet new people, make friends, and looks good on a resume, a scholarship or college application, and is even good for a soldier’s promotion points.  For our younger community members, volunteering is often vital for honor societies and high school graduation.

No matter where or how volunteers choose to serve, they are the cornerstone of making life better for our service members and their families.  Whether they are serving as a soldier and Family Readiness Group Leader, an ACS volunteer, a Youth Sports coach, volunteering with a Kids Fishing Derby or Trees for Troops or helping to set up an Emergency Family Assistance Center or role-playing for one, volunteers are helping to build on the success of our military communities.

There is an anonymous quote that states, “Your life is your message to the world.  Make sure it is inspiring!” To our volunteers, thank you for being our shining light.

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Army Community Service at +1 (706)791-3579.