Albert Pike, 19th-century attorney, Confederate officer and writer, is credited with the quote: “What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.”

Those are fitting words to consider on the eve of National Volunteer Week, a time when we recognize and honor volunteers for their dedicated benevolence to society.

Since 1974, National Volunteer Week has garnered the support and endorsement of elected officials at all levels of government. Volunteerism is about people working collectively to help the less fortunate and make their community a better place to live.

National Volunteer Week is about encouraging and inspiring others to explore ways to become engaged.

If you seek an opportunity to give back, Beaufort County is bursting with nonprofits that will welcome an extra set of hands.

You might be proficient in a construction-related field – carpentry, electrical, plumbing. Beaufort County Habitat for Humanity is building a home on Havens Street just south of Eastern Elementary School. Habitat spokesman Frank Belote says that if you can identify a hammer, you are qualified to help. The future homeowners also contribute “sweat equity.”

When disaster strikes ą be it a flood or fire ą volunteers with the Greater Pamlico Area Chapter of the American Red Cross answer the call. Despite no funding from the national or state Red Cross entities, Lorrie Beech and her team provide disaster relief to communities as well as assistance to military families.

Working closely with the Red Cross is The Salvation Army, a faith-based program founded in the late 1800s in England that provides food, clothing and rent assistance for those who are in need. The Salvation Army is enlisting volunteers for a disaster services team, but Lt. Chris Lyles, Washington Corps commander, welcomes all comers.

Literacy Volunteers of Beaufort County is working to raise the adult literacy level in Beaufort County through tutoring in reading, writing and math. Anna Sizemore can tell you how rewarding it is to help someone learn to read and write so he or she can complete a job application.

There are currently 100 people on a waiting list for Meals on Wheels. Sally Love at Eagle’s Wings will tell you that volunteer drivers can make a difference in getting food to people who are homebound and reducing that list.

There are many, many more local organizations that can use your help – the Zion Shelter, the Purpose of God Annex, Beaufort County Developmental Center, Beaufort County Mental Health Association, Pamlico Pals – to name a few. All can be found in the phone book or through Beaufort County United Way.

Remember that change comes from within. Make this the week that we take action to bring about change for the positive in our community.