Lifestyle and Leisure
Americans are a socially conscious bunch
Recently released figures have shown Americans care for their fellow man, while other statistics suggest the US economy is recovering well.
The levels of volunteering among Americans has reached levels not seen in over seven years. In excess of 63 million people in the US volunteered for good causes during 2009, which was a huge 1.6 million more people than in 2008.
Apparently President Barack Obama's message for more people to help in their communities was taken to heart, as his fellow countrymen contributed an impressive 8.1 billion hours of services - or the equivalent of around US$169 billion - according to the Corporation for National and Community Services (CNCS).
The new UK coalition government could learn from the astounding contribution of volunteers to the US economy, as while Downing Street talks of a 'Big Society' the government is simultaneously cutting funding to the UK voluntary and community sector.
In an interview Patrick Corvington, CEO of CNCS, commented: "I think the important thing to remember is that it is part of the American spirit of generosity. What is amazing about this country is that people turn toward problems, rather than away from them."
Of the 50 American states Utah boasted the highest proportion of socially conscious residents, with Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska and Alaska also posting admirable volunteering figures. And even though people living in large metropolises are not always known for being especially concerned for their neighbours, people living in Minneapolis (Minnesota), Portland (Oregon) and Salt Lake City (Utah) bucked the trend, according to data from the US Census Bureau.
Corvington also believes that 63 million Americans have a clear understanding that volunteering is as beneficial to the individual donating their time as it is to the communities in which they volunteer: "[American] people are finding that beautiful nexus between making a difference and being changed."