The enthusiasm of so many friends, family, and neighbors engaging and volunteering for various causes is evident in our communities.

Ultimately, it enhances the quality of life for the communities in which we live. It is easy to bear witness to volunteerism in all forms and fashion throughout Northeast Michigan. Our region abounds with volunteerism at local festivals, service club projects, church events, social club activities, athletic associations, and more. Thank you to all who volunteer time, talents and other resources to all sorts of community organizations and causes.

While philanthropy is often viewed through the rubric of much-needed and valued financial donations, volunteerism — inclusive of labor, time and talents — is equally recognized as essential to the causes of philanthropy. Without a doubt, financial contributions are important for organizations to function, but “people power” is what makes those financial resources work effectively toward common causes.

Recently, at a city council forum of the League of Women Voters, the importance of volunteerism in our community was brought up by council and guests alike. All agreed that volunteer input, particularly toward community improvement projects, greatly impacts costs by bridging the gap between government funding and actual budgets.

Like all nonprofits, the Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan and our affiliates depend heavily on volunteers to achieve our mission of fulfilling the charitable goals of our donors and addressing the current and future needs of our communities. This past year, over 400 incredibly gifted individuals volunteered their time and talents to a variety of projects within the foundation. The Community Foundation is extremely fortunate that 50% of our volunteers are part of our Youth Advisory Councils and under the age of 21.

If you are not one actively volunteering, consider an organization whose missions aligns with your beliefs, and think about volunteering some time there. Not only will you help them along in reaching their goals, but you will get something in return, as well.

Research shows that volunteering boosts self-confidence, increases social circles and contacts, increases social and relationship skills, provides career experience, and teaches valuable job skills. Volunteering can increase your sense of purpose and life satisfaction and provide a social support network. That can reduce the effects of stress and anxiety, combat depression, and have a happy effect on your life as powerful as the effects enjoyed by those you are helping.

If your organization is fortunate to have a strong volunteer team, be sure to measure the “people power” being given to your cause. The current value of volunteer time is roughly $25 per hour. Based on that number, the Community Foundation’s volunteer value at this point in the year equals an amazing $186,900!

Information like that speaks volumes and demonstrate the full measure of support without diminishing the altruistic nature of these people’s gifts of time.

Thank you to all volunteers out there who give of themselves for whatever reason, making things happen in our communities and supporting philanthropy in all its diverse forms. Your contributions are priceless and very much appreciated.

Philanthropy and volunteerism equally make a difference in the lives of those in need.

Tim Kuehnlein is board chairman and Patrick Heraghty is executive director of the Community Foundation for Northeast Michigan.