June 22, 2009
June 22, 2009
Part of President Obama's national call to service
LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today encouraged Michigan citizens to embrace volunteerism as part of the Obama administration's United We Serve initiative that kicks off today and runs through September 11, the National Day of Service and Remembrance. The initiative focuses on four key areas: education, health, energy and the environment, and community renewal.
"Volunteers are the heroes of our state and help to create positive change during these challenging times when many of our fellow citizens could benefit from a helping hand," Granholm said. "United We Serve is a great way to extend that helping hand, and I encourage all Michigan citizens to consider participating sometime this summer."
Governor Granholm marked the occasion by joining U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu and Congressman Mark Schauer at a local YMCA in Battle Creek where they helped assemble energy efficiency kits and educational materials that will be distributed by community members. The kits are being made available through a partnership with the Michigan League of Conservation Voters Education Fund, Michigan Environmental Council, Clean Energy Coalition, and Meijer Inc.
First Gentleman Daniel G. Mulhern also participated in a volunteer event today as part of United We Serve. Mulhern volunteered with the Saginaw Habitat for Humanity's three-week blitz build.
United We Serve is being led by the Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal agency that improves lives and strengthens communities through volunteering and service.
Individuals or organizations interested in joining the United We Serve effort can visit www.serve.gov. The site allows visitors to recruit volunteers by posting their organization's projects or to get ideas for creating their own projects with friends, families, and neighbors.
The Michigan Community Service Commission, which is chaired by First Gentleman Mulhern, will lead the United We Serve effort in Michigan. Additional information on volunteer opportunities is available at www.michigan.gov/volunteer.
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