Community service: it's good for the public, the profession, your firm and you.

• Author: Rice, Jr., Edward J.
• Position: President's Page

In newspapers, on television and radio, in the mail, by telephone, we receive and hear constant pleas for financial assistance, donations, gifts and contributions of time. We hear from schools, hospitals, churches and all kinds of community organizations. Literally thousands of volunteer organizations exist for helping people who are in need.

Many institutions gear their requests for financial aid, but behind the scenes it is the volunteered time and energy that are the backbone of successful charitable organizations. The people who give their time and talent steer these various organizations in an efficient manner and at the same time are able to keep the overhead cost of operating these organizations at a minimum.

Professional people and their families historically have been on the front lines of volunteerism, helping both financially and through contributions of time. Many physicians, beginning in their early years of training, dedicate a large percentage of their time to treating persons who are unable to afford their services. Architects and engineers dedicate their time to projects in their communities and for their schools and colleges. And lawyers in particular are well known (within the legal and judicial communities) for their donation of time to bar associations, schools, legal aid, and indigent defender programs.

Many professionals donate substantial portions of their time to their professions and the teaching institutions in their communities on a pro bono basis. During the past five years alone, the average amount of time given by volunteer workers has more than doubled and now averages a little more than four hours a week by those who do volunteer work.

Community Service Committee

Changes in tax laws and other economic factors have had an effect on the amount of money schools and charitable organizations have been able to raise through their financial campaigns. During this IADC year, the Association will form a strong Community Service Committee to provide the membership with a network within which they can learn more about and become more involved in community volunteer activities.

As the title to this President's Page reflects, community volunteer service creates a win-win situation for all involved. In every community around the world, there are many opportunities for assisting others in need. No matter what the population of a given area, there are youth, elderly, ill, handicapped and dying persons who require financial...