Today’s post comes from Chris Golden, Executive Director and co-founder of myImpact.org.

As our nation prepares to celebrate the 235^th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence this weekend, it is an appropriate time to reflect on the common ideals and values that united our country at its founding and have been strengthened- and tested- throughout our history.

In the classic survey Democracy in America Alexander de Tocqueville identified American’s adoption of community groups, societies and other associations as an important element of our democracy. As Americans, we view our society not individually- but collectively. As a nation, we joined together in compromise to form our Union. We confront challenges with collaboration and resolve. And we celebrate our identity-a unique commonality that binds us all together as one country, as we will this weekend.

One of our nation’s founding principles is the idea of “neighbor helping neighbor.” It describes our nation as well today as it did at our founding.

During the Civil War, American women, led by Clara Barton, came together to form the American Red Cross.

During World War II, American industries, factories and farmers converted their work efforts to aid a nation at war.

And a decade ago, faced with the tragedy and uncertainty of the September 11 terrorist attacks, Americans looked at their own communities and saw the power of volunteerism and community service to solve problems and better livelihoods.

Volunteerism and service are embedded within American’s DNA.

They reflect the best of ourselves, our neighborhoods and our country.

But it’s not just in times of war that this spirit is on display.

In just the past few months volunteers responded to record flooding along the Mississippi River, devastating tornadoes in Alabama and Missouri and wildfires in the West.

Every day, American volunteers are on the front lines. Whether it is immediate destruction or longer term developing crises.

Like tutors who volunteer their time to help students succeed. Helping to keep them in school and on track.

Like health care professionals who hold local clinics to keep our communities healthy.

And like the big brothers and big sisters- and anyone who has ever held the title “Mentor” for another, providing the support and encouragement of a helping hand- when sometimes that all that matters.

Compassion is at the heart of the American community.

And even though sometimes it seems like our country is on the wrong track, when the challenges we face seem to be insurmountable and when our highest ideals seem to be slipping out of reach, we can take comfort in knowing that we are all in this together.

And in this unity, comes responsibility. To carry on the greatest legacy of our founding- to help our neighbors as they help us.

To answer life’s most persistent and urgent question, as Dr. Martin Luther King asked, “what are you doing for others?”

And, even further, as President John F. Kennedy challenged in his Inaugural Address fifty years ago:

To ask not what our country can do for us, but what we can do for our country.

All of these questions, and this common resolve, should be a part of our celebration as we celebrate, commemorate and reflect on our nation’s Independence.

Have a happy and safe Independence Day!