Those who volunteer their time and energy for a good cause probably do not expect any recognition for their efforts. But at least once a year they get it anyway.

More than halfway through the 26th annual National Volunteer Week, the Center for Community Service and local agencies have Ohio University students not only planting trees, cleaning creeks and painting signs, but attending parties and concerts in their honor as well.

"If you're going to pick a week to start volunteering, it should be National Volunteer Week," said senior Allison Jostworth, CCS communications coordinator. "It gives you a broader experience of your educational background and a chance to apply those skills to make you feel good."

Students can choose to volunteer for community service, qualify for Federal Work-Study programs or enroll in university service learning courses. More than 60 faculty members have revised courses in subject areas including interpersonal communication, management, telecommunications, hearing and speech sciences and service work, CCS Director Merle Graybill said.

"There are people who work on projects occasionally, a few times during the year," Graybill said. "Then there are students who volunteer three or four hours a week. All of those students find possible career connections through volunteering."

And students who volunteer on a more regular basis comprise larger numbers than one might think.

According to a CCS annual report, 7,450 students provided more than 212,000 service hours in the area during the 1997-98 year.

Sophomore Sheila McCombs, CCS coordinator of special events, said the week's events were their way of recognizing and saying thank you to students, community members and faculty members who contribute throughout the year.

Although McCombs said volunteering has increased her awareness of certain issues and the impact they have on the community, she said it is very rewarding for her to give back to the community as well.

"I feel more like a community member than just a student," McCombs said. "I've built relationships with people other than students. That's helped make Athens home."

Information about this week's volunteer opportunities and applications for Summer Service Corps 1999 are available at the Center for Community Service, 033 Baker Center.