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CHAPTER, 111 <br />The City also offers volunteer opportunities in recreation programming, <br />including formal programs such as Support Hult Center Operations <br />(SHO) and the Senior Volunteer Program, as well as other highly <br />valued volunteer opportunities in Specialized Recreation, Youth & <br />Family, and Community Services program areas. <br />During the PROS planning process, expansion of volunteer <br />opportunities was a major theme. In particular, many participants <br />recommended that the City offer more opportunities for youth and <br />conduct additional outreach to engage young people in civic <br />volunteerism, complete community service requirements necessary for <br />graduation from some schools, and provide positive and enriching <br />experiences. Increased opportunities for adults and opportunities in <br />environmental stewardship for all residents were also major themes. <br />Volunteerism offers many benefits to the City and to the volunteers <br />themselves. Through volunteerism, community members can; <br />^ Build neighborhood connections and pride; <br />• Be physically active; <br />• Create healthy, happy childhoods for children; <br />^ Support a social cause or interest; <br />^ Leave a legacy; <br />• Learn something new; <br />• Meet people; <br />^ Memorialize or honor a loved one; <br />• Make Eugene a safer place; and <br />• Give a tax deductible gill to the community. <br />For the City, volunteerism expands resources for maintenance, <br />environmental restoration, recreation programs, and other park and <br />recreation activities. In a time of increased competitiveness for the <br />City's General Fund revenues, volunteers greatly benefit the <br />community by augmenting City staff. While the City will need to <br />expand staffing to oversee the growing volunteer program and to <br />coordinate the recruitment, training, and recognition of volunteers, <br />the benefits provided to the City far outweigh the costs. <br />City of Eugene PROS Comprehensive Plan 25 <br />,,.~ Draft <br />