By Courtney Ferguson
Baltimore Watchdog Staff Writer
Gov. Larry Hogan issued a proclamation Friday that declared Sept. 11 through Oct. 10 as “Day to Serve” month in the state of Maryland.
This new initiative encourages all Maryland residents to come together and participate in their own community service efforts for at least one day. Due to the novel coronavirus, these efforts will be done both remotely and in-person.
“As we continue to navigate the pandemic and the many diverse issues facing our communities, unity and service have never been more important or needed,” Hogan said in a statement.
The initiative is in collaboration with Virginia, West Virginia and Washington, DC, each with their own respective efforts to serve their communities.
All participating states will track their volunteer hours as well as pounds of food and supplies donated and compare their efforts in a friendly competition.
In addition to the Day to Serve initiative, the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives is working with the Maryland Department of Veteran Affairs and the Happiness for Heroes campaign.
Happiness for Heroes gives Maryland residents an opportunity to share messages of gratitude and hope to occupants of Maryland’s Charlotte Hall State Veterans Home.
Hogan also encouraged Marylanders to show their appreciation to first responders like police officers and fire officials as well as front-line workers like nurses.
To encourage as many residents as possible to volunteer their time to others, Hogan has granted four hours of administrative leave for state employees to participate in acts of community service.
Those interested in participating are encouraged to check the Day to Serve Event Map for information on service events near them.