Volunteering in America: A Deep-Rooted Community Building Tradition

Here in the United States, volunteering isn’t just something we do—it’s part of who we are. In 2023, nearly one in three Americans formally volunteered through organizations. That’s over 4.99 billion hours of service, worth more than $167.2 billion. Even more impressive? More than half of Americans pitched in informally, helping neighbors and lifting each other in everyday ways. Whether it’s through an organization or just lending a hand down the block, volunteering is baked into the fabric of American life.

People volunteer for all kinds of reasons. Some want to give back. Others want to connect, learn something new, or just be part of something bigger than themselves. Whatever the reason, the impact is real and lasting. Women continue to lead in volunteerism, and while Baby Boomers have long been strong informal supporters, Gen X now leads in formal volunteering. Millennials are showing up in big numbers too, especially since the pandemic, bringing fresh energy and ideas.

Causes close to Americans' hearts encompass a range of issues, from hunger and homelessness to health and wellness, animal rescue, and environmental conservation. Religious organizations also play a huge role. Unfortunately, even before the pandemic, overall volunteering had been on the decline, especially in rural areas. Economic strain and fewer civic spaces made it harder for people to plug in. That’s why strong volunteer programs—and support—are more important than ever.

Many companies are stepping in with paid volunteer time and grant programs, recognizing that helping employees give back also strengthens company culture. And all across the country, nonprofits are making it easier to get involved. America’s civil society and nonprofit infrastructure offer endless opportunities for people who want to help. That foundation—built on community spirit, religious values, and a sense of duty—is what keeps this culture thriving.

When people feel secure, educated, and supported, they’re more likely to give their time. And when trust is high and communities are connected, volunteering becomes something that just happens naturally. That’s why building welcoming, well-run programs matters so much. Clear communication, strong leadership, and a focus on safety and ethics make all the difference. Inclusion is key. When people see that they belong and their contributions are valued, they stay—and they bring others along with them.

The Heart of Our Organization: Volunteers Who Power Our Mission

The volunteers at our organization are the backbone of everything we do. We couldn’t run a single event without them. But what they give goes way beyond just showing up. Many of our volunteers bring their boats. That alone is huge. Boats require regular upkeep, fuel, and maintenance, not to mention that they bring some of their sports equipment, like tow ropes and surfboards. They cover those expenses themselves because they believe in the joy and empowerment this work brings to people with disabilities.

They also bring their time, their patience, and their hearts. Working with participants of all abilities takes compassion, flexibility, and a big dose of good humor. Our volunteers meet every challenge with kindness and positivity. They’re out there in the heat, on their days off, making sure each ride is safe, exciting, and unforgettable.

Because of them, our participants get to experience the rush of water sports, many for the very first time. They get to feel the thrill of skiing, tubing, or just cruising across the lake. It’s more than recreation. It’s freedom, confidence, and joy. And it’s only possible because people choose to step up and give.

We’re incredibly proud of our volunteers. Our volunteers are doctors, therapists, teachers, and entrepreneurs while on the job, and when they're out on the water with us, they are all those plus mentors, cheerleaders, and coaches—and often, lifelong friends. Their generosity makes our mission not just possible, but powerful. Every hour, they give ripples out, changing lives in ways we can’t always see, but that we know matter deeply.

Standing Strong Without Government Funding: Why Community Support Matters

It’s important to understand that many adaptive recreation programs across the country rely heavily on state and federal funding. That support can be a great help, but it also means they’re vulnerable to shifting political priorities, budget cuts, and changing regulations. A single policy decision or funding change can ripple through those programs and disrupt access for the people who need it most.

That’s not our story. Arizona Adaptive Water Sports isn’t supported by government grants or subsidies. We run entirely on the kindness and generosity of individuals—volunteers, donors, and community members who believe in what we do. Every dollar donated and every hour volunteered go directly toward creating life-changing experiences on the water. Our independence keeps us nimble and focused, but it also means we depend on people like you to keep going strong.

How You Can Help: Volunteer Opportunities That Create Real Impact

As we grow, so does our need for passionate, reliable, and kind-hearted volunteers. If you’ve got a boat, great. If you don’t, that’s okay too. There are so many ways to help. Whether you’re assisting on the dock, helping with gear, or just offering support and encouragement, there’s a spot for you.

Volunteering with Arizona Adaptive Water Sports isn’t just about what you give—it’s about what you gain. You’ll meet incredible people. You’ll make a real difference. And you’ll be part of a team that believes everyone deserves the chance to play, connect, and feel that spark of joy that only comes from being out on the water.

Join Us Today: Sign Up and Make a Difference

Click here to learn more about how you can get involved. Whether it’s your first time volunteering or your hundredth, we’d be proud to have you on board. Invite your friends and family! Let’s keep building a community where everyone has a place in the boat.