Washington (RNS)—Americans volunteer their time primarily through religious organizations, according to a recent survey conducted by the Corporation for National and Community Service.

Based on data obtained from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and a “volunteering” supplement in the Current Population Survey, the report found that 34.8 percent of U.S. volunteers serve at religious organizations—outpacing educational and community organizations.

The Corporation for National and Community Service, founded in 1993, is best known as the sponsor of the Americorps program.

Using Independent Sector’s estimate of the value of a volunteer’s time, religious volunteerism in America was worth about $51.4 billion, the report said. Overall, 65.4 million (28.8 percent) of American adults volunteered a total of 8.2 billion hours in 2005, equating to a value of $147.6 billion.

The population survey was administered to approximately 60,000 households nationwide, including participants age 16 or older.

The number of volunteers has increased by nearly 6 million since 2002.

Overall, the influence of religion had a positive influence on volunteer rates. But Bible Belt states had a lower volunteer rate than most Midwest and Western states.

Educational or youth service (26.2 percent) and social or community service (13.4 percent) are other leading areas where Americans volunteer.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our nation,” said David Eisner, CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service. “From schools and shelters to hospitals and hotlines, volunteers are vital to America’s social and economic well-being.”

The Bush administration has made a commitment to increase volunteering by 10 million Americans by 2010.

“The study ... will help every state create stronger volunteer networks by showing what’s working, what’s not, and highlight the best opportunities to engage citizens in the future,” Eisner said.