There's no shortage of volunteer opportunities in Mena and in Arkansas.  In fact, the Department of Human Services has created the Division of Volunteerism that is dedicated to promoting and supporting volunteerism in the state as a means of solving problems for Arkansas.  One of our very close neighbors, Hot Springs, was named one of the top ten volunteer cities in the U.S.

Our own David Oates  was recently appointed by Governor Huckabee to the Division of Volunteerism Advisory Council.  The Arkansas Division of Volunteerism was formed in 1974 (the first of its kind in the Nation (with the purpose of promoting and supporting volunteerism in the private, nonprofit and government sectors as a means of solving problems for all Arkansans.  The division, housed with the Department of Human Services, has offered training, technical assistance and information to all Arkansans for the past 30 years.  The Advisory Council consists of 16 members from throughout the State appointed by the Governor for  three-year terms.   They meet quarterly to review on-going programs and provide support and guidance to the Division's Staff.   He has been a government appointee to the Commission on National and Community Service, served as its Chairman, and continued to serve in this commission until he was term limited out.