State of the Commonwealth

On Thursday, January 15, 2009, Governor Deval Patrick delivered his 2009 State of the Commonwealth address. The Governor thanked his legislative partners for enacting so much of his ambitious agenda last session, and acknowledged the challenges of the nationwide recession, while promising that it will not stop our agenda for change, nor diminish our faith in each other.

Visit Governor Patrick’s website to read a transcript or watch a video of the address.

Honoring the man who had a dream

"...everybody can be great, (Everybody) because everybody can serve." (The Drum Major Instinct, Martin Luther King, Jr.)

Martin Luther King, Jr. recognized the power of unity through service to strengthen communities and achieve common goals. In 1994, Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act in honor of Dr. King's legacy; transforming this Federal Holiday into a National Day of Service. MLK Service Day has grown steadily over the years and 2009 is set to be an extraordinary event with thousands of projects and millions of volunteers.

Massachusetts has been named a Marquee State for MLK Day of Service by The Corporation for National and Community Service -- encouraging Americans to view MLK Day as a "Day On" rather than a "Day Off."

Volunteer!

In addition to MLK Service Day events, the Commonwealth's Connect & Serve website is a great way to find volunteer opportunities throughout Massachusetts.

• Find volunteer opportunities honoring Martin Luther King Day

For more information on MLK Service Day events please visit:

• www.mlkday.gov
• www.usaservice.org