Whereas, The Peace Corps has become an enduring symbol of our nation’s commitment to encourage progress, create opportunity and expand growth at the grass-roots level in the developing world; and,

Whereas, More than 170,000 Americans have served as Peace Corps Volunteers in 138 countries since 1961; and, 

Whereas, Over the past 44 years 5,101 men and women from the state of Michigan have responded to our nation’s call to serve by joining the Peace Corps; and,

Whereas, Peace Corps Volunteers have made significant and lasting contributions around the world in agriculture, business development, information technology, education, health and HIV/AIDS, the environment, and have improved the lives of individuals and communities around the world; and,

Whereas, Peace Corps Volunteers have strengthened the ties of friendship and understanding between the people of the United States and those of other countries; and,

Whereas, Peace Corps Volunteers, enriched by their experiences overseas, have brought their communities throughout the United States a deeper understanding of other cultures and traditions, thereby bringing a domestic dividend to our nation; and,

Whereas, It is fitting to recognize the achievements of the Peace Corps and to honor Peace Corps Volunteers, past and present, and to reaffirm our country’s commitment to helping people help themselves throughout the world; now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of Michigan do hereby proclaim the week of February 28, 2005, as Peace Corps Week in the State of Michigan.