Despite facing challenges like war and natural disasters, Americans continue to demonstrate a strong commitment to service, charitable giving, and volunteerism. Philanthropic organizations are thriving, even surpassing donation levels seen during the economic boom of the late 1990s, according to The Chronicle of Philanthropy. Beyond monetary contributions, volunteerism is also on the rise, with over 64 million Americans dedicating their time and skills to improving their communities and the lives of others.
This dedication to service is highlighted in the book “Points of Light: A Celebration of the American Spirit of Giving” by Robert Goodwin and Thomas Kinkade, with a foreword by former President George H.W. Bush. The book shares inspiring stories of individuals making a tangible difference. One chapter features Timothy Miller, who founded the Texas EquuSearch Mounted Search and Recovery Team after his daughter’s tragic abduction. Another tells the story of Lt. Jim Mayer, a Vietnam War veteran who, despite losing an arm, tirelessly serves the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and volunteers as an amputee peer advisor at Walter Reed Army Hospital.
The Points of Light Foundation & Volunteer Center National Network plays a crucial role in engaging and mobilizing millions of volunteers to address critical social issues across numerous communities. Robert Goodwin has been the President and CEO of the Points of Light Foundation since 1995. Thomas Kinkade, renowned as the “painter of light,” is considered one of America’s most collected living artists.