MEDIA ADVISORY: National Museum and Center for Service & Independent Sector to Host National Service Symposium in D.C.
April 15, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hybrid event will feature national charitable sector leaders, youth volunteers, and data experts, including a deep dive into the latest Value of Volunteer Time from Independent Sector and the Do Good Institute
WASHINGTON, D.C. (April 15, 2026) - In celebration of the United States Semiquincentennial and National Volunteer Month, Independent Sector and the National Museum and Center for Service will host 250 & Beyond: Our American Story — A nationwide celebration of service, a landmark national symposium honoring the past, present, and future of American service to others. This hybrid event will be livestreamed to classrooms and community groups across the country.
A major highlight of the symposium will be the publication of the new Value of Volunteer Time research from Independent Sector and the Do Good Institute. This critical data quantifies the enormous economic and social impact of volunteers nationwide. The launch will be accompanied by a dedicated panel discussion featuring top experts and philanthropic leaders:
Jeffrey Moore, Independent Sector
Nathan Dietz, Do Good Institute / University of Maryland
Stanley Fontaine, Annie E. Casey Foundation
Tony Tijerino, Hispanic Heritage Foundation
The symposium will also feature insights from prominent national leaders who have dedicated their lives to civic engagement:
Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, former Lieutenant Governor of Maryland, will participate in an opening fireside chat to discuss service as a powerful connector.
John Hewko, General Secretary and CEO of Rotary International, will deliver the afternoon keynote address.
250 & Beyond: Our American Story — National Service Symposium
Date: April 24, 2026 Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM EST (Reception to follow)
Location: Arena Stage at the Mead Center, Washington, D.C. + Nationwide Livestream
Registration: For more information and register for the free virtual event, visit www.250andbeyond.com/Symposium.
This event is open to credentialed press. To RSVP, please contact Julie Budkowski or Chloe Kessock.
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National Museum and Center for Service is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to making service to others visible and valued in communities across the country. Learn more at www.nmcfs.org.
Media Contact: Julie Budkowski, juliebudkowski@nmcfs.org
Independent Sector is the national membership organization that connects, strengthens, and advocates for nonprofits and philanthropies. Learn more at independentsector.org.
Media Contact: Chloe Kessock, chloek@independentsector.org
