Reps. Thompson and Panetta Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Celebrate Community Week, Commemorate Service Organizations

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Glenn "GT" Thompson (PA-15) and Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), co-chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Service Organization Caucus, introduced a resolution to designate the week of September 14th through September 20th as Celebrate Community Week and commemorate the efforts of local service organizations across the country.

The resolution recognizes the role of service organizations in promoting community humanitarian assistance, while also instilling the value of giving back in our youth. The undersigned members specifically applauded Kiwanis International, Lions Clubs International, Optimist International, and Rotary International for encouraging and promoting community service and humanitarian assistance through their local chapters.

"I commend our community service organizations like Lions Clubs International, Rotary International, Kiwanis International, and Optimist International for everything they do to help our communities flourish,” Rep. Thompson said. "Volunteer service is the cornerstone of a successful, strong, and healthy community, and is an important staple of American life. I am pleased to recognize this critical work during Celebrate Community Week." 

“Local service organizations provide critical support but don’t always receive the recognition they deserve,” Rep. Panetta said.  “This bipartisan resolution establishes Celebrate Community Week to highlight their impact and the example they set.  By uplifting their work, we reaffirm the importance of service, civic responsibility, and community engagement.”

"Kiwanis International and its fellow service organizations are dedicated to supporting communities in the United States and around the world,” said Kiwanis International President Lee Kuan Yong. We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate on the Celebrate Community initiative and create meaningful change.”

"When service organizations unite, the impact is extraordinary,” said Lions Clubs International President A.P. Singh. “During Celebrate Community Week, Lions Clubs International is proud to stand alongside our fellow service partners to bring hope, resources, and compassion to people in need across the globe. Together, we embody the true spirit of service — proving that by working hand in hand, we can create a brighter, better future for all."

“When organizations like ours unite to help those in need, we’re able to achieve far more than we ever could on our own,” said Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo. “As we join together in friendship and service, we’ll help create a healthier and more peaceful future for our communities, families, and ourselves.”

Read the full resolution.