Gov. Gregoire�s statement on Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act

For Immediate Release: April 21, 2009

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire released the following statement today on the signing by President Obama of the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, which will expand service opportunities across the nation:

�I thank President Obama for signing this important legislation. During these tough economic times, we are seeing more people step forward to help those less fortunate. The Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act builds on this momentum by expanding service opportunities to help Americans build stronger communities.

�As I did in my January inaugural address, I urge all Washingtonians to spend one hour each month helping those in need or aiding their community in a way they consider beneficial. When we work together, we ensure that those who are hungry are fed, our elderly are taken care of and our schools and homes are safe, healthy environments for our children and neighbors. We will emerge from this recession stronger than we entered it by reaching out and contributing our time and energy to help others.�