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COVID-19 RESPONSE STATEMENT
 
March 14, 2020
 
Dear Friends,
 
In response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and in following the advice of state medical officials, Volunteer New York! has made the difficult decision that we will not be hosting an in-person Volunteer Spirit Awards on April 3, 2020. We are exploring the option of a virtual awards presentation that is streamed live to make sure that this year's incredible volunteers and all the supporters of this special event are properly recognized.
 
Recently the Governor banned large gatherings of 500 or more, for an indefinite period of time. We appreciate this action to safeguard the health and well-being of everyone. We will continue to keep you informed of our plans in the days and weeks ahead.
 
What we are here for:
 
Please be assured that Volunteer New York! is built to serve our local community and respond to pressing needs as they arise. We have been working in partnership with nonprofit, state and disaster recovery leaders to quickly mobilize our Virtual Volunteer Center that will act as a hub for listing all COVID-19 response and recovery volunteer opportunities in our region.
 
For info on how local agencies can submit their opportunities and list their needs for volunteers to support the most vulnerable in our region in the Virtual Volunteer Center, please visit volunteernewyork.org/VVC. This site and free public resource is expected to launch in full within the next 72 hours. At which time you should begin to see COVID-19 response opportunities populate on the page.
 
Global Volunteer Month will begin in just a few weeks. While the month of April may look quite different than what we are used to, through Volunteer New York! and the Virtual Volunteer Center there will still be ways to take meaningful action.
 
This remains a complicated and rapidly evolving situation that reminds us that we are all part of a strong and resilient community with a responsibility to look out for one another. We believe relationships matter. That is what Volunteer New York! will continue to do, and we are grateful for your understanding and continued support of our mission.
 
We sincerely thank you, and hope you and your family are well,
 
Alisa H. Kesten and the entire Volunteer New York! Team
 
 

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