Mayor Gierlach signing the Proclamation for Mayors Day of Recognition for National Service |
Volunteers with Senior Corps and AmeriCorps make contributions every day to local nonprofits and public agencies. They were never more visible than immediately following the September 2013 floods, when they pitched in to help with critical disaster recovery work, some of which continues to this day. Additionally, day-in and day-out National Service volunteers are often the unsung contributors who work tirelessly, giving their time, talent, and treasure to our communities.
from left: Nederland Mayor Joe Gierlach, Longmont Mayor Dennis Coombs, Lyons Mayor Julie Van Domelen, Lafayette Mayor Christine Berg, Boulder Mayor Matt Appelbaum |
PROCLAMATIONWHEREAS, service to others is a hallmark of the American character, and central to how we meet our challenge: and
WHEREAS, AmeriCorps members and Senior Corps volunteers demonstrate commitment, dedication, and patriotism by making an intensive commitment to service, a commitment that remains with them in their future endeavors; and
WHEREAS, the Corporation of National and Community Service shares a priority with mayors nationwide to engage citizens, improve lives, and strengthen communities; and is joining with the National League of Cities, City of Service, and mayors across the country to recognize the impact of service on the Mayors Day of Recognition for National Service on April 1, 2014.
WHEREAS, over 1,000 national service participants of all ages and backgrounds are currently serving in Boulder County, Colorado, providing vital support to city residents and improving the quality of life in our city; and
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that I do hereby proclaim April 1, 2014, as National Service Recognition Day, and encourage residents to recognize the positive impact of national service in our city and county and thank those who serve, and find ways to give back to their communities.
Given the many social needs facing our community, and the fiscal constraints facing government at all levels, the Town of Nederland has often turned to national service as a cost-effective solution to meet those needs. Engaging citizens and nonprofit partners has not only been a smart strategy, but often the only alternative to address our challenges.
AmeriCorps volunteers assigned to Nederland |
National service shows the best of the American spirit – people addressing local challenges, working together to find community solutions. As mayor, I am grateful for the dedication and sacrifice of these citizens, who are helping make our town stronger, safer, and healthier. Today, I had the privilege of thanking Boulder County CareConnect and national service members for their commitment. Let us all pledge to do our part to strengthen our town through service and volunteering.
[Related Story: Nederland Food Pantry is a Life Saver – 5 Reasons to Donate]If you would like to volunteer or have a passion for a specific aspect of our community, feel free to contact me, or anyone at Town Hall.
[Here is a Video Valediction] Supertramp recorded their first gold album, Even in the Quietest Moments... at Caribou Ranch Recording Studio near Nederland. Even the album cover is a photo of a grand piano that was hoisted to the top of Eldora Mountain Resort and covered in snow. This is Supertramp front-man, Roger Hodgson performing Give a Little Bit (from the same 1977 album) at 4:00am in Klaksvík, Faroe Islands, at the Summarfestivalurin on his tour through the Netherlands (2006). [What is a Video Valediction?]