When I first started working in politics as a junior aide on Walter Mondale's 1984 presidential campaign it never occurred to me that I would one day work in the White House. There were plenty of women among the volunteers who stuffed envelopes and walked precincts. But there were fewer and fewer on each successive level of influence and access.

In addition to serving overseas the Peace Corps' Crisis Corps Volunteers have helped their fellow Americans.

I wish the Peace Corps and its volunteers continued success and perseverance. We are grateful for their contributions to society and dedication to providing assistance where it is needed. May the Peace Corps continue its legacy of service both at home and abroad.

Under current law volunteers who are not working with an official nonprofit organization are not covered by the Volunteer Protection Act. Therefore there are absolutely no legal protections for the average American who wishes to volunteer.

It is imperative that when thousands of selfless volunteers respond to those who have incurred the wrath of a natural disaster that legal liability need not be hanging over their heads.

A leader is one who out of madness or goodness volunteers to take upon himself the woe of the people. There are few men so foolish hence the erratic quality of leadership in the world.

However many skilled medical volunteers are turned away because community health centers cannot afford to cover their additional medical liability insurance.

I am proud to represent these men and women who empower people in developing nations and promote the Peace Corps mission of peace and friendship. These volunteers are making major strides to improve the lives of people and communities around the world.

Friendship is but another name for an alliance with the follies and the misfortunes of others. Our own share of miseries is sufficient: why enter then as volunteers into those of another?

Jews know this in their bones. Our community could not exist for a day without its volunteers. They are the lifeblood of our organizations whether they involve welfare youth education care of the sick and elderly or even protection against violence and abuse.