With the proper revisions, this bill will support the important work that charitable organizations do in every community in our country. It will also advance ethical conduct within the charitable community.

It is a challenge to place a dollar value on the important work volunteers do for millions of charitable organizations and communities across the country. But this number can help put into perspective the enormous contributions provided by our nation's volunteers.

Our past research shows that adults are twice as likely to volunteer if they began participating when they were teens.

It's an opportunity for citizens who care about issues to communicate with lawmakers about what's happening in their communities. Without that input, lawmakers might not be able to make informed decisions.

In the First Amendment, people have the right to petition the government. That is a constitutional right and we take that obligation very seriously.

These recommendations are another part of the charitable sector?s commitment to come together and ensure that its organizations meet the highest possible ethical standards. The Panel will continue to work with the sector and government officials to encourage implementation of its comprehensive proposals.

It's extremely important for charitable organizations to make sure lawmakers have all the facts before them.