COLUMBIA, MO (May 2, 2011) -

The city of Columbia will recognize the efforts of the hundreds of volunteers who have contributed to municipal government at a reception on Wednesday, May 4, 6-7:30 p.m. at Peachtree Banquet Center, 120 E. Nifong.

Mayor Bob McDavid is scheduled to share greetings with volunteers and will recognize the city’s volunteers of the month for 2010. The event will be emceed by Michael Heimos, stormwater educator with the Columbia Public Works Department.

Volunteers serve the city in numerous ways, including beautifying streets, picking up litter, teaching the public about recycling, helping at festivals and special events and keeping the community safe. Volunteers also assist the city in preparing for disasters, maintaining parks and assisting with children’s activities.

During the city’s 2010 fiscal year that ended Sept. 30, volunteers contributed 48,076 hours toward city programs and projects. Based on a national value for volunteer service, these hours are worth more than $1,002,000. This was the largest number of hours given to the city since it began collecting data on volunteer activities in 1996.

Anyone wanting to learn more about volunteer opportunities with the city can call Volunteer Programs at 874-7499 or visit the city’s website at www.GoColumbiaMo.com.