Winter 2009
Recap of National Mentoring Month 2009
Aaron Eilerts Day of Service February 24
College Student Helps Document the Impact of AmeriCorps Members in the Spring Disasters
Governor Culver, Lt. Governor Judge Thank Iowans for Service on MLK Day
2009 Learn and Serve Community-Based Funds and Applications are Available
Service Spotlight- AmeriCorps Member Norma Boge
Governor’s Volunteer Award Nominations due March 9
4th Annual Volunteer Awareness Day to be held in Capitol on Feb. 25
Federal Issue - Serve America Act
Federal Issue - AmeriCorps funding in the House Economic Stimulus Plan
Other Federal News - President Obama Urges Service
Aaron Eilerts Day of Service February 24
Aaron Eilerts was a talented and compassionate young man, who sadly lost his life in the tragic tornado at Camp Little Sioux on June 11, 2008. Aaron, an eighth grader at Robert Blue Middle School in Eagle Grove, truly lived a “Spirit of Service.”
To honor the life and work of this dedicated young man, Governor Culver proclaimed February 24 – Aaron's birthday –as the first annual Aaron Eilerts Day of Service and Giving and encouraged schools across Iowa to take part.
Governor Culver stated that “Countless Iowans' lives were made better because of Aaron's understanding of one simple truth: service to family, community and friends is something which links us all . Aaron touched so many in his short life and I believe all Iowans can continue to be inspired by his story. It's my hope that Iowans will be inspired by the example of citizenship Aaron always exemplified.”
There are multiple ways for your school to participate in this statewide day of service. Please read a document from Robert Blue Middle School which lays out how Aaron's school will carry out Aaron Eilerts Day of Service, as well as sample projects that Aaron was passionate about.
Although this day of service is targeting school age children, all are encouraged to help honor Aaron's life by participating in this day as a day of service. Please contact your local school for ways to collaborate.
For a list of all service days in Iowa please visit: www.volunteeriowa.org
If you have questions, or need additional information, please contact the Governor's Office, at 515.281.0159 or adam.gross@iowa.gov