AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism, is celebrating National Volunteer Week. The week, which started April 16 and runs through Saturday, recognizes the significant contributions of volunteers in their local communities. According to the agency, 124.7 million people helped at least once during the year, generating nearly $123 billion in economic value. Additionally, 60 million Americans volunteered with an organization, providing more than 4.1 billion hours of service to their communities. Volunteering has been proven to lead to greater engagement in local communities, increased participation in civic organizations, public meetings and local elections, as well as the donation of more to charities.