In Creating, this type of umbrella organization, the government could use its considerable resources (”bully pulpit”, information, and technology) to connect already existing community based or philanthropic efforts (national, international, interfaith, or secular) that are effective and needed in the community. In addition, mentoring in or duplicating successful efforts to bring in new volunteer efforts and also encouraging networking among all of these organizations to achieve interconnectivity, a multiplier effect, and elevate the profile of such efforts within the community could both be objectives of this umbrella organization. I do think it essential to keep administrative personnel to an absolute minimum… this umbrella organization is all about facilitating the community or the people to help one another and not the government doing it for us!!!

In answer to your question, “How can government be a better supporter of the work that you’re doing?”
Create a philanthropic, community based, non-profit volunteer organization which engages with other already established community based or philanthropic organizations with the goal of benefiting and supporting the community emphasizing in the following areas:
Environmental clean up and recycling efforts
Educational and tutorial assistance
Supporting veterans and their families
Healthcare initiatives
preventative care, healthcare, and disaster preparedness seminars
senior assistance programs
early childhood health awareness seminars
establish community organic farmers markets

Certainly the family unit is the bedrock of not only the American way but of civilization in general. That is not to say that volunteerism, charity, and a strong civic ethic in society does not have it's merits!!!

This Yes-We-Can Volunteer Corps is an excellent idea, Latimer! Coupled with a national website informing people of volunteer opportunities or service projects at the community level… include not only recently unemployed individuals but, also individuals with disabilities, the elderly, the youth, and the veteran populations of our society. Combined these suggestions would serve to improve the civic ethic.

Greenly makes an excellent suggestion regarding a national website with volunteer opportunities or service projects for local communities’ needs. Volunteer Match.com is just such a website… I think it’s definitely a good starting point. Check it out… add any suggestions to improve it for this particular purpose.

I volunteer at Long Beach St. Mary’s Hospital where I help primarily in telemetry and work to support medical professionals who are taking care of patients with various heart problems. I’m also a professional tutor therefore, when I found out Long Beach St. Mary’s Hospital had a community outreach program to help tutor economically disadvantaged children with their school work, I started tutoring students within St. Mary’s Hospital community outreach program. I enjoy volunteering and find it most fulfilling. Therefore, I am very interested to learn further details regarding the educational and health care service groups that are currently being discussed for future implementation.