Seattle is tops for helping hands

OK, Seattle, pat yourself on the back with that helping hand you offer so frequently.

Out of 50 of the largest U.S. cities, Seattle ranks fifth for the percentage of adults who volunteer. About 36.3 percent had volunteered in the previous year, according to a new survey by the Corporation for National and Community Service. For the past decade, the United Way of King County has ranked first or second among the United Way affiliates in total giving, suggesting extensive personal and corporate generosity in financial contributions.

This latest survey proves Seattle-area residents not only are generous with their money but also their time, whether it is to feed the homeless, coach youth soccer or keep terminally ill patients company.

Ahead of Seattle were Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minn., where about 40.5 percent of adults volunteer; Salt Lake City, 38.4 percent; Austin, Texas, 38.1 percent; and Omaha, Neb., 37.8 percent.

People are more likely to volunteer when they feel more of a connection to their communities, the corporation says. People who own their homes, have more education, shorter commute times and more opportunities to volunteer tend to do so more often.

Charity is its own reward, to be sure. But our community is richer for being home to so many people willing not only to open their checkbooks but to give their hours and hearts to making it a better place.

To find out about volunteering opportunities, go to www.uwkc.org/volunteer/