ATHENS, Ohio -- National Volunteer Week runs April 27 to May 3 and Ohio University's Center for Community Service will be celebrating volunteers who contribute to the community with several service projects held Saturday, April 26, and Sunday, April 27, as well as awards for outstanding community partners and volunteers that will be presented throughout the week.

Merle Graybill, director of Ohio University's Center for Community Service, said, "It's important that our student body is willing to share its energy and good will with the community. In these times of budget cuts, it is more difficult for non-profit organizations to meet their goals. Student volunteers can make the difference."

More than 4,000 Ohio University students volunteer each year to help accomplish the goals and meet the needs of their neighbors. These students serve through student organizations, Greek life, residence halls, work-study in the community and through Service Learning courses.

"Not only do students gain the benefit of helping others, but it also is an opportunity for them to meet new people and gain practical career experience," Liz Condo, a student service scholar at the Center for Community Service, said. "Volunteering has made me feel connected to the community."

Michelle Gritzer, another student service scholar at the Center, said, "I've learned a lot about myself, as well as skills that will carry over into my career like communications skills and teamwork."