Early New Year's resolution.

Everyday in America, thousands of African American volunteers participate in programs in and outside of their communities to uplift, inspire, and assist those in need. They volunteer in local organizations, schools, churches, synagogues, and mosques, and they volunteer their time, they give their money, and their expertise and knowledge. These volunteers know that it is important to give something back.

My wife, Barbara, and I completely embrace the idea and spirit of volunteering by participating in a variety of activities and supporting numerous organizations. In September, we again volunteered to work for Habitat for Humanity, the organization that builds affordable housing for low-income families. We co-sponsored and worked on a home in Americus, Georgia, last year and were so moved by the experience that we signed on again as a co-sponsor in Brooklyn, where Habitat renovated 12 single-family homes in my old Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood. As a part of Habitat's New York project, they also renovated three apartment units in Harlem. Volunteers at the two sites totaled about 500 people. Of those, only a small percentage were African American. How could that be in Harlem, the most famous African American community in the entire world?

Our absence as volunteers in appropriate numbers at Habitat's Brooklyn and Harlem projects is not an aberration--we have got to increase our levels of participation in all aspects of community involvement.

In a way, this message is directed to the younger generation, those of you in your 30s and 40s. Some of you have exceeded the wildest dreams of your parents in terms of your professional achievements and financial gains. But it is because you have reached such heights that it is so very important that you give back--not only to those less fortunate but to those who aspire to the same goals you have already attained. And as you give, you will get in return. By volunteering, you will gain a profound sense of fulfillment, a sense that your life has a purpose other than simply pursuing your own interests and desires.

Yes, I know, I am asking a lot when I ask you to give of your time and your talents and your tithes. But I am not asking you to give any more than I am willing to give myself. In the same week that my wife and I worked at the Habitat site, I worked with the Boy Scouts, did an interview with CNN on mentoring, worked in my capacity as corporate chair for the Alzheimer's Association and consulted with both Howard University and the National Council for Negro Women. I conducted these activities in conjunction with a full range of activities pertaining to BLACK ENTERPRISE and our ancillary businesses.

Now I'm not here to point a finger, but I would suggest that if you are not helping someone else, maybe you could make it an early New Year's resolution to do so. Don't wait until January 1: Do it now! There are so many organizations that need help: the public libraries' literacy programs or the Red Cross or the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts or the NAACP and the Urban League--the list is endless. If you don't know whom to contact, start at your local school or your college alumni organization. Your local classified telephone directory lists volunteer organizations. I'm sure there is one that can use your special talents, skills, and knowledge. You can make a difference. Volunteer! Do it now!