Volunteering is what led Lt. Gov. Sally Pederson into the political arena, and she believes it’s one of the most essential things a citizen must do to keep society running smoothly.

Pederson spoke to more than 300 Iowa State Extension members Tuesday in the Scheman Center, stressing the importance of volunteering in Iowa. She was invited to speak as part of ISU Extension’s annual conference, which is being held this week.

“I don’t think it’s possible to grow up in Iowa without acquiring a great appreciation for the Iowa State Extension service,” Pederson said during her visit. “I know that volunteers are critical to ISU Extension programs.”

Pederson said volunteering has made an impact on her life and career.

“It was in fact volunteering that lead me into politics,” she said. “I began to learn that much good would be left undone without volunteerism.”

Pederson gave her own life as an example to what volunteering can do for a person. She said that’s what lead Gov. Tom Vilsack to ask her if she would run as his lieutenant governor.

“I certainly feel indebted to my volunteer activities,” she added.

Peterson said nonprofit organizations are the biggest employers in America. One out of every two people gives an average of five hours per week, which is about equal to 10 million full-time employees, she said.

“I’ve been truly astonished at the number of volunteer groups in Iowa. There is no end of opportunities for volunteers to make a difference in Iowa,” she said.

In closing her speech, Peterson said that “if we remember clearly what brought us along, we will continue to extend a hand to others in need and give of ourselves.”

Merle Pochop, ISU Extension, said Pederson’s speech was right on target. “People need to bring more than what they simply do to get paid.”

Jerry Chizek, member of the planning committee for the event and Extension employee, shared similar thoughts. “[Pederson] really hit it on the head as far as what volunteering really means in Iowa.”