Utah residents top the nation for service and volunteerism, according to new national research released Nov. 19 by AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism.
In 2023, more than 1.2 million Utahns volunteered through an organization, considered formal volunteering, while more than 1.7 million helped their neighbors informally, as highlighted in the latest Volunteering and Civic Life in America research.
Volunteering and Civic Life in America research is the most comprehensive overview of data on the country’s volunteering and civic engagement. Based on a survey conducted by AmeriCorps and the US Census every other year, the research includes data on formal volunteering, informal helping, and other civic behaviors that indicate how Americans make a difference in their communities.
Highlights of the Utah data:
- 98.3% of residents talked to or spent time with friends or family.
- 68.2% of residents informally helped others by exchanging favors with their neighbors.
- 81.8% of residents had a conversation or spent time with their neighbors.
- 39.3% of residents belonged to an organization.
- 64.1% of residents donated $25 or more to charity.
The national volunteering rate has increased by 5.1 percentage points, a more than 22 percent growth in just two years. This is the largest expansion of formal volunteering ever recorded and truly showcases that the spirit of volunteerism is on the rise in America post-pandemic.
“We are encouraged and inspired to see this data, which reaffirms Utah’s position as a national leader in both formal and informal volunteering,” said Loggins Merrill, director of UServeUtah. “This achievement is a testament to the deep-rooted spirit of service that defines our state. We believe that service is not just an act of kindness — it’s a powerful solution to the challenges we face in our communities. The fact that Utah continues to lead the nation in volunteerism reflects the strength of our collective commitment to making a positive impact.”
As Utah continues to lead the nation, UServeUtah invites every resident to embrace the spirit of service and create meaningful change. Find a way to get involved here (https://userve.utah.gov/volunteer/).
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UServeUtah, the Utah Commission on Service and Volunteerism, strengthens Utah communities by inspiring and empowering volunteers and promoting service and civic engagement. As part of the Utah Department of Cultural & Community Engagement, UServeUtah supports innovative programs, fosters collaboration, and recognizes the invaluable contributions of volunteers. Through initiatives such as AmeriCorps, youth engagement programs, and community training, UServeUtah plays a vital role in maintaining Utah’s reputation as the nation’s most charitable state.
AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism, provides opportunities for Americans to serve their country domestically, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, improve lives and communities, and strengthen civic engagement. Each year, the agency places more than 200,000 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in intensive service roles; and empowers millions more to serve as long-term, short-term, or one-time volunteers.
AmeriCorps offers opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds to be a part of the national service community, grow personally and professionally, and receive benefits for their service.