National Volunteers Week April 18-24 celebrates the spirit of service to others in communities across the nation.

This year’s theme of “Celebrating People in Action” certainly describes the caring St. Vincent de Paul volunteers at St. Louise, Sacred Heart and St. Madeline Sophie parishes who helped 6,496 Bellevue-area needy to prevent eviction, hunger, utility shut-off and more through home visits and other contacts in 2009.

During tough economic times it’s more important than ever for each of us to make a difference.

Richard Bray, Director of Donor & Community Relations, Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Seattle/King Co.