Points of Light

Points of Light is an international nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to engaging millions of people and resources in solving serious social problems through voluntary service.

History

The organization was formed in 2007 by merging the Points of Light Foundation and Hands On Network. The Points of Light Foundation was established in 1990 to promote the spirit of volunteerism as described by U.S. President George H.W. Bush in his 1989 inaugural address, "I have spoken of a thousand points of light, of all the community organizations that are spread like stars throughout the Nation, doing good." The Foundation merged with the National Volunteer Center in 1991 to become the Points of Light Foundation and Volunteer Center National Network.

Activities

Points of Light inspires, equips, and mobilizes people to take action that changes the world. Through affiliates across 39 countries and partnerships with thousands of nonprofits and corporations, they engage more than 3.7 million volunteers in approximately 16.7 million hours of service each year. The organization supports local communities through disaster recovery efforts, corporate volunteer councils, and the recognition of volunteers through awards like the Daily Point of Light Award, which was also established by President George H.W. Bush.

Leadership and Governance

Natalye Paquin serves as the current CEO of Points of Light, succeeding Tracy Hoover and Michelle Nunn, who was a key figure in the organization's early phases. The organization's board includes prominent figures like Neil Bush, Pamela Norley, and others from diverse backgrounds across business and public service.

Impact

As the world's largest organization dedicated to volunteer service, Points of Light fosters a global community committed to kindness and societal cohesion. Their efforts aim to transform communities through the multiplication of small acts of kindness into a force of human kindness that transforms societies worldwide.