Dear Colleagues:

On Monday, January 21, we will observe the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday and King Day of Service.  And this year, which marks the 40th anniversary of Dr. King's death, opens a new initiative that gives added attention to Dr. King's life and teachings. 

This effort - 40 Days of Nonviolence:  Building the Beloved Community - kicks off 40 days of service by families, schools, and other groups throughout the country.  More than a half million Americans in all 50 states will take part in a variety of projects ranging from delivering meals and building homes to painting schools and signing up volunteers to tutor and mentor children.  To learn more about the King Day of Service and what you can do to spend a "day on" in service to others on your "day off" from work, visit www.mlkday.gov.

Because I believe so strongly in the power of mentoring, I am going to make a pitch to you to consider becoming a mentor to a young girl or boy during this initiative.  My family and I have been especially blessed because of our mentoring experiences, and we can confirm that "real people are changing lives two at a time."  I encourage you to give it some thought.  For more information about mentoring, visit www.michigan.gov/mentormichiganor just pick up the phone and call 2-1-1.

I want to thank you again for your continued, dedicated service to our citizens and the great state of Michigan.  We couldn't do what we do without you and your commitment to serving the people.   

Sincerely yours,

Jennifer M. Granholm
Governor

"Life's most persistent and urgent question is - what are you doing to help others?"  - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.