Several organizations support service and volunteerism by conducting research into trends, practices and principles that impact the field. This research provides a foundation for action and informs program planning.

The Giving Years: Engaging the Time, Talent, and Experience of Older Californians in Intergenerational Service – Report that focuses on how more California seniors can be engaged in service and volunteerism, with emphasis on activities that involve schoolchildren.

Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) – The federal Department of Labor’s principal fact-finding agency in the field of labor economics and statistics, the BLS collects, processes, analyzes and disseminates statistical information, including data on trends in volunteerism.

The Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE) – Based at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Policy, CIRCLE conducts and funds research on the civic and political engagement of Americans ages 15-25. It also serves as an information and scholarly research clearinghouse.

Corporation for National and Community Service – Federal agency that provides service opportunities for Americans of all ages and backgrounds through oversight of three programs: Senior Corps, AmeriCorps and Learn and Serve America. The Corporation also conducts and supports research on topics such as volunteer management capacity in nonprofit organizations, performance measures, etc.

Philanthropy for Active Civic Engagement – An association of grantmakers and donors committed to using the resources of its members to opening opportunities to community and civic participation.

Points of Light Foundation – National organization that promotes volunteerism and engages millions of volunteers through a network of Volunteer Centers, as well as partnerships with businesses, nonprofits, government agencies and other organizations. The Foundation also conducts research on volunteer management, volunteerism rates, etc.

The Urban Institute – Nonpartisan economic and social policy research organization that focuses on topics such as Social Security, housing and health insurance. It has also conducted studies on performance measures in national service programs.