In the news: Dr. Ashcraft on volunteerism in the U.S.

May 7, 2023, Voice of America — Volunteerism has long been a hallmark of American democracy, culture and civic life — going back to the founding of the United States.

The first volunteer firehouse began in 1736. And in the 1800s, volunteerism in social reforms, including women's rights, child labor and the abolition of slavery, led to institutions and social services to improve the lives of others.

Today volunteerism in the U.S. is considered more important than ever.

"Civic volunteerism is a very resilient concept in the United States," said Robert Ashcraft, executive director at the Lodestar Center for Philanthropy & Nonprofit Innovation at Arizona State University.

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