Why Do We Calculate a Value of Volunteer Time?

We know putting numbers to volunteer hours will never do them justice, but it is just one way for us to show the contributions individuals and organizations have made in our communities. The estimate helps acknowledge the millions of individuals who dedicate their time, talents, and energy to making a difference. Charitable organizations frequently use this estimate to quantify the enormous value volunteers provide.

Additionally, each state has a unique value. You can explore in-depth state and historical data by filling out the form below. Learn more about the methodology.

How You Can Help?

Independent Sector has long held the position that Congress should raise the volunteer mileage reimbursement rate. Businesses can reimburse their employees at a rate of 54.5 cents per mile, but volunteer mileage has been fixed at a mere 14 cents per mile for over two decades. This federal law hurts nonprofit organizations’ ability to attract this valuable resource by severely limiting how much they can reimburse volunteers for donated mileage. Contact your members of Congress today and ask them to raise the volunteer mileage reimbursement rate.