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Bob Beatty, national chairman of American Mensa, signed a joint proclamation indicating support of the United Nations' declaration of 2001 as the International Year of Volunteers.
Representatives from some of the world's leading service organizations gathered at the Carter Center in Atlanta, Ga., for the Nov. 17 event. President Jimmy Carter described the center as "a place where people could gather to discuss ideas," and where people can work together to "pursue a common dream."
The United Nations General Assembly, along with 123 other countries, formally passed a resolution noting the significant contribution that volunteers make in their own countries and their quest for a better life for all, based on the voluntary commitment of individuals and groups to make available their time and share their resources and skills in the interest of those less advantaged.
The Service Club Leaders Conference (SCLC), co-hosted by Civitan International and Pilot International, is an organization that represents more than 5 million volunteer members internationally. The SCLC sponsored the effort to support the United Nation's General Assembly decision, which was made more than three years ago.
The United Nations Social Development Council felt that a year to enhance recognition, facilitation, networking and promotion of volunteer service would help increase awareness of its achievements and potential.
"In addition to Mensa, I have worked with other volunteer organizations such as the Boy Scouts, United Way and the Jaycees, and I am proud to place my name as chairman of American Mensa alongside those other volunteer leaders of the world," Bob Beatty said.
The International Year of Volunteers aims to celebrate and advocate volunteerism around the world by applauding the achievements of volunteers and hopes to engage new volunteers in alleviating some of society's social problems.
Based in Arlington, Texas, American Mensa is for anyone who scores in the top 2 percent of the general population on a standardized intelligence test. The organization has approximately 47,000 members. For more information about applying for membership, interested persons can call (800) 66-MENSA or visit www.previous.us.mensa.org.
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