THE MANCHIN REPORT: A New Year’s Resolution That Honors a Legacy Through Service
By Joe ManchinGovernor of West Virginia
Charleston, WV (HNN) -- As we close the door on 2005, it is a time for reflection and renewal. The beginning of the New Year presents an opportunity to set new goals and develop detailed plans for accomplishment that will enable us to have the best year possible. One New Year’s resolution we should all embrace and honor is the opportunity to give something back to the state we call home.
On Jan. 16, our nation marks the 20th anniversary of the Martin Luther King federal holiday, and the 11th year that this day has been observed as a day of service. In 1994, the U.S. Congress passed legislation encouraging Americans to celebrate the Martin Luther King Holiday as a day of service, reflecting Dr. King’s life and teachings. Participation in the event has grown steadily over the past decade.
As a way to commemorate the holiday this year, all West Virginians are encouraged to participate in a Blizzard Box campaign. Blizzard Boxes will provide emergency food and supplies to homebound individuals to be used in case of bad weather or emergencies. Individuals and organizations can participate by collecting items during the weeks prior to the holiday, sorting, packaging and then distributing the boxes to those who may need them.
The Governor’s Office and The West Virginia Commission for National and Community Service are coordinating this year’s Blizzard Box project. For additional information or to register your Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service project, log onto www.VolunteerWV.org. The commission strengthens communities through its administration of the AmeriCorps Program and coordination of the state’s overall service and volunteerism efforts. It also serves as a clearinghouse for volunteers, supports non-profits and develops leaders in West Virginia communities.
As Gayle and I have said so often throughout this holiday season, if you can count your blessings then you can share them. We encourage all West Virginians to share the gift of service, by providing a small amount of your time to do something that makes a world of difference for an individual or family in need in the Mountain State.
Dr. King once said, “Everybody can be great because everybody can serve.” On the Martin Luther King Holiday and every day, we hope all West Virginians will honor the legacy of this great leader by following his example. By sharing your time and talents throughout the New Year, you can play a big part in helping to improve the quality of life in all of our communities. Working and serving together, we truly can make a difference.