Press Releases

Pomona, N.Y. – 2/9/26… Today, Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17), in partnership with America250, announced the introduction of a bipartisan resolution expressing support for the designation of 2026 as the “National Year of the Volunteer” at a press conference with local leaders, first responders, and community members. The resolution honors the millions of Americans who strengthen their communities through service and encourages a renewed national commitment to volunteerism. 

Additionally, it helps raise awareness of America250’s program, America Gives, a nationwide initiative designed to make 2026 the largest year of volunteerism in U.S. history. 

“I’m proud to announce a bipartisan resolution designating 2026 as the National Year of the Volunteer. As our country approaches its 250th anniversary, this resolution honors the people who have always held our communities together and calls on the next generation to step up and serve. The Hudson Valley helped win America’s independence 250 years ago, through citizen soldiers, volunteer militias, and neighbors answering the call,” said Congressman Lawler.

“Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do at the American Red Cross. Every day across the country, they show up - often at a moment's notice - to comfort families after home fires, support first responders, collect lifesaving blood, and strengthen the resilience of our communities. Designating 2026 as the National Year of the Volunteer is a powerful reminder of the impact that service has on every corner of our nation. We are grateful to Representatives Lawler and Moskowitz for championing this bipartisan effort and for recognizing the extraordinary individuals who give of their time, their talent, and their compassion to help others,” said Doreen Howe, CEO, American Red Cross in Greater New York.

“The Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York proudly recognizes and deeply appreciates the unwavering commitment of the men and women who volunteer their time to protect our communities. Fire and EMS services across this nation would not be possible without the dedication and sacrifice of these individuals. We salute every volunteer whose efforts strengthen the fabric of our society and make America the remarkable country it is. We encourage all citizens to consider joining these noble causes—neighbors helping neighbors is what truly matters in today’s world. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your service,” said David C. Denniston, 1st Vice President, Cortland County, Association of Fire Districts, State of New York. 

“This important legislation reminds us of a fundamental truth: volunteers are the backbone of nonprofit organizations and the heart of our community. Through their service, they show up for their neighbors, strengthen our shared humanity, and turn compassion into action. As Maya Angelou so beautifully said, ‘I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul.’ At Feeding Westchester, we are deeply appreciative of this well-deserved spotlight on volunteerism and the thousands of individuals whose generosity of time and spirit makes our work possible,” said Tami Wilson, Chief Operating Officer,  Feeding Westchester.  

“As President Ronald Reagan said, ‘We may not be able to help everyone, but everyone can help someone.’ It’s that spirit of compassion for our neighbors and our community that makes our country so great. As we look to celebrate the 250^th Anniversary of our nation, the United Way of Westchester and Putnam applauds Rep. Mike Lawler and Rep. Jared Moskowitz for their efforts in introducing a bipartisan resolution designating 2026 as the ‘National Year of the Volunteer.’ Now more than ever, our nation and its many diverse people need to come together in service to support our nonprofit organizations, schools, civic groups, religious institutions, and veterans’ organizations to ensure our communities and our neighbors thrive,” said Tom Gabriel, President and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam.

“Volunteerism strengthens communities, offsets significant government costs, and unites people across backgrounds in common purpose. Yet volunteer fire and EMS departments nationwide are experiencing declining membership and increasing call volumes, trends that threaten the long-term sustainability of emergency services in suburban and rural America. Recognizing volunteers at the national level sends a powerful message to those currently serving and to those considering answering the call. Thank you for your continued support of first responders, volunteers, and the communities we serve,” said Christopher Kear, Director and Fire Coordinator, Rockland County Office of Fire & Emergency Services. 

“Generosity is humankind’s birthright, and volunteer work allows us to be generous with our most valuable assets: our time and attention. The life-giving work of the Catholic Charities network is made possible by the collective efforts of more than 215,000 volunteers nationwide. I applaud Rep. Lawler and Rep. Moskowitz for choosing to honor our volunteers and the millions of others across the country who set aside time to serve others,” said Kerry Alys Robinson, President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA. 

“Volunteer firefighters and emergency medical responders are the backbone of public safety in communities like ours. Designating 2026, America’s 250th anniversary, as the National Year of the Volunteer is both timely and meaningful. It offers an opportunity to renew the spirit of service that has defined our nation since its founding, encourage a new generation to step forward, and elevate volunteer service as a cornerstone of civic life. I commend the leadership behind this resolution and respectfully urge your support,” said Vincent Pacella, Commissioner of the Board of Fire Commissioners of the Nanuet Fire District.

“As a fully volunteer emergency medical service, Hatzoloh exemplifies the spirit your resolution seeks to honor. Volunteer EMS and fire organizations nationwide are facing increasing call volumes alongside growing challenges in recruitment and retention. Elevating volunteer service at the national level is both timely and necessary, particularly as these organizations remain a critical pillar of public safety. We commend you for introducing this resolution and respectfully urge its adoption. Recognizing volunteers at the national level sends a strong and lasting message of gratitude to those who serve quietly and selflessly every day. Thank you for your continued support of volunteer emergency responders and the communities we serve. Yasher koach on this important effort,” said Eliezer Mayerowitz, Chief Operating Officer of Hatzoloh EMS of Rockland.

“Your recognition that volunteerism plays a vital role in public safety and community strength mirrors what we see every day in the fire service. At a time when recruitment and retention remain urgent concerns nationwide, national recognition is both timely and necessary. Elevating volunteer service during our nation's 250th anniversary year will help inspire new generations to join the ranks and carry on this proud tradition. We applaud your leadership and enthusiastically support the designation of 2026 as the National Year of the Volunteer. This resolution honors not only volunteer firefighters, but every individual who steps forward to strengthen their community. Thank you for your continued commitment to the volunteer fire service and for championing those who answer the call without expectation of reward,” said Louis C. Babcock, President Emeritus of S.W. Johnson Fire Steam Fire Engine Company No. 1.

“As one of the volunteer fire companies serving the Stony Point community, we know firsthand the critical role that volunteers play in ensuring public safety. Our members leave their homes, their families, and often their jobs at a moment's notice to respond to emergencies. They do so not for recognition or reward, but out of a shared commitment to protect their neighbors. Your resolution honors that tradition of service, while also calling national attention to the challenges volunteer organizations face, especially with recruitment and retention. Wayne Hose Co. 1 Inc. proudly supports this resolution, and we encourage other fire companies, civic groups, and community organizations across the region to join you in championing the importance of volunteer service,” said Joseph P. Robinson of Wayne Hose Company No. 1 of Stony Point, NY. 

Photos from the press conference can be found HERE.

Full text of the resolution can be found HERE. 

Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York's 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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