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Adopt and present a resolution recognizing April 2026 as National Volunteer Appreciation Month in Solano County, highlighting the contributions of community volunteers and partner organizations (Supervisor Williams)
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No _X _
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No _X _
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
Supervisor Williams recommends that the Board of Supervisors adopt and present a resolution recognizing April 2026 as National Volunteer Appreciation Month in Solano County and acknowledging the significant contributions of volunteers and community partners who support essential services throughout the County.
SUMMARY/ DISCUSSION:
Solano County benefits greatly from the dedication and service of volunteers who contribute thousands of hours annually to support vital programs and services throughout the community. These volunteers represent a diverse cross-section of the community, ranging in age from young adults to retirees, and bring a wide variety of backgrounds, skills, and experiences that strengthen the County’s ability to serve its residents. The month of April is designated as National Volunteer Appreciation Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the importance of volunteering and honoring the significant contributions individuals make by generously donating their time and talents to worthy causes. April also highlights volunteerism through events such as Earth Day, National Service Recognition Day, and United Way’s National Volunteer Month, further emphasizing the value of civic engagement.
Volunteer Appreciation Month provides an opportunity to recognize and thank volunteers who lend their time, talent, voice, and resources to meet critical community needs. It is estimated that in Solano County there are over 100 volunteer opportunities available across a wide range of organizations and causes. These opportunities allow residents to support essential services, from animal care and food distribution to public safety and education, reinforcing that volunteering and civic engagement are the cornerstone of a strong and connected community.
The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano relies heavily on volunteers to support its mission of leading the fight to end hunger in partnership with the community. Volunteers assist with inspecting, sorting, and packing food, bagging produce at the Fairfield warehouse, and supporting mobile pantry and community distribution programs throughout Solano County. Through these efforts, the Food Bank distributes more than 2.7 million meals monthly to neighbors in need, with volunteers playing a critical role in ensuring food reaches families, seniors, and individuals facing food insecurity.
Within the Solano County Sheriff’s Office, dozens of volunteers serve on teams such as Cadets, Reserve Deputies, Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, SAVE, Animal Shelter, Chaplaincy, Jail Programs, Search and Rescue, Dive Team, and Auxiliary Communications. These volunteers enhance the agency’s ability to respond to routine operations and large-scale incidents, including service in demanding conditions within specialized units like Search and Rescue and the DIVE Team. Their efforts reduce operational demands on sworn personnel while expanding service capacity and strengthening community relationships through programs such as the Cadet Program. Partnerships with organizations like VOAD further support coordinated emergency response efforts.
Similarly, the Solano County Library relies on volunteers to support programs and services that promote literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement. Volunteers assist with shelving materials, literacy and tutoring programs, children’s story-times, and general program support across library branches. These contributions help expand access to services, enhance programming, and create welcoming spaces for residents of all ages.
Countywide, the Center for Volunteer & Nonprofit Leadership (CVNL), also known locally as Solano Volunteers, plays a critical role in strengthening volunteerism by connecting individuals with meaningful service opportunities and supporting nonprofit capacity. Through the County’s partnership and contractual relationship with CVNL, these services are made possible, helping to coordinate and expand volunteer engagement across Solano County, including support for County operations during disasters. CVNL mobilizes volunteers throughout the region and provides services such as volunteer matching, leadership training, and nonprofit consulting, enabling organizations to effectively engage volunteers and increasing their impact. Through community partnerships and coordinated volunteer efforts, CVNL supports initiatives that address local needs and strengthen community resilience.
The contributions of volunteers across Solano County are essential to maintaining strong community programs, supporting vulnerable populations, and enhancing public services. Recognition of National Volunteer Appreciation Month reflects the County’s commitment to honoring those who give their time selflessly and encourages all residents to volunteer and make a positive difference in their community.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The costs associated with preparing the agenda item are nominal and absorbed by the Board’s FY2025/26 Working Budget. The costs associated with preparation and purchase of the resolution materials are included in the Board’s FY2025/26 Working Budget.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board could choose not to adopt this resolution but that would not be recommended as this is an excellent opportunity to recognize the importance and contributions of volunteers to Solano County.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
Other agencies involved in this effort include the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, the Solano County Sheriff’s Office, the Solano County Library, and the Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit Leadership. Each partner plays a collaborative role in supporting program implementation through resource coordination, community outreach, and service delivery, contributing to a comprehensive and countywide approach.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION