Surprise Mayor Kevin Sartor proclaimed Nov. 1 as Extra Mile Day to recognize individuals and organizations who committed to “going the extra mile” in volunteerism and service.

Extra Mile Day celebrates the capacity  to create positive change in families, organizations, communities and more to “go the extra mile“ for helping to make the world better.

Sartor joined a countrywide effort in recognizing the people whose volunteer service, generosity, and everyday efforts improve lives and strengthen the community, from supporting schools and community programs to caring for seniors, helping animals in need and showing up for a neighbor.

Often, those who give their time and “heart-felt” energy do it without recognition, so Extra Mile Day highlights the people and organizations whose efforts make life better for others, one act of service at a time.

“We live in a world that claps for fame,” stated Extra Mile Day founder Shawn Anderson. “But some of the people who make the biggest difference in our communities will never make the news or hear the words ‘thank you.’ They keep showing up anyway. They keep going the extra mile. And somebody’s life is better because they did.”

Extra Mile Day began in 2009, inspired by Anderson’s symbolic 4,000-mile bicycle ride across the United States. A non-bicyclist at the time, Anderson used the journey to interview 200 people who were going the extra mile by accomplishing something extraordinary or overcoming major adversity.

What began with 23 participating cities in 2009 grew in to a nationwide observance, with more than 500 cities across all 50 states participating this year.

"...I am grateful that Surprise takes the time to recognize their volunteer heroes,” added Anderson,

Visit: ExtraMileAmerica.org.