All over the country, Americans are starting their own small businesses, investing in green energy, and rebuilding communities. With continued job growth, a thriving auto industry, and expanded investments in the American worker, communities across the country have demonstrated their ability to overcome adversity. By dedicating time to supporting communities in their economic development, we can give our fellow citizens the opportunity to enjoy not just prosperity, but a new level of dignity and self-determination. 

National Day of Service organizational partner Operation HOPE is working to make free enterprise and capitalism work through financial literacy and inclusion. Over the past 20 years, Operation HOPE has directed more than $1.5 billion in private capital into America’s underserved communities to help create thousands of homeowners, small business owners, and entrepreneurs. With 2 million clients served and over 20,000 volunteers, Operation HOPE is making a difference in communities across the country. Volunteers can also help in programs like Banking on Our Future, a program focused on keeping the most at-risk youth from repeating the cycle of poverty by teaching them basic financial literacy.

You can help advance the final work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.—eradicating poverty and achieving a measure of economic justice for all—by giving your time to an economic development project.

Sign up for a National Day of Service economic development event near you!

Operation HOPE is one of many opportunities to get involved with service projects focused on promoting economic development. There are lots of ways to get involved—volunteer at Operation HOPE or help drive your local economy by serving at poverty relief centers or local businesses that keep your community running. Thank you for your commitment to serve in your community.