Happy Friday! I’m Samantha, MSA’s Communications and Marketing Associate; I write our newsletters and manage most day-to-day external communications efforts here at MSA.
Just a week ago, over 600 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorp Opening Day program staff, speakers, and partners gathered at the Reggie Lewis Center to kick off the 2024 service year with an inspiring Opening Day celebration. The day brought together members, alumni, and partners in a powerful reminder of the impact we can make through collective action and dedication. Let’s walk through the day together!
The MSA team arrived bright and early at the Reggie Lewis Center, filled with excitement to prepare for the day. They set up tables, signs, a fun Photo Booth, and merch.
A few hours after the initial setup, the event started buzzing with the arrival of members, program staff, and various partnering organizations, all ready to engage and participate.
Before the ceremony and during lunch, members had the opportunity to check out tables from organizations like the Peace Corps and AmeriCorps Alums, as well as educational institutions that double the Segal Education award.
The morning then kicked off with a powerful and diverse lineup of speakers, videos sharing ‘A Day in the Life’ of members, and talented performers. AmeriCorps programs were given shout-outs by focus areas that filled the space with enthusiasm.
The program began with a warm welcome from Louise Keogh Weed, Board Chair of Massachusetts Service Alliance, and an insightful State of Service in Massachusetts from Beth McGuinness, CEO of Massachusetts Service Alliance.
Throughout the morning, alumni like Ruth Koha James, of MIRA, shared personal stories and experiences. Senator Liz Miranda motivated everyone with a call to action to 'Do something that’s bigger than yourself,' addressing global challenges and opportunities. In addition, State Treasurer Deborah Goldberg also highlighted that dedicating one's life to service profoundly enriches the soul.
The day featured AmeriCorps program shout-outs by focus area, allowing members from various programs to share their stories. The “Day in the Life” video segments offered glimpses into the impactful work done by programs such as the Student Conservation Association’s Historic Preservation Corps and MIRA/New American Integration Program.
Performances were exciting and inspiring, featuring a powerful piece of spoken word from Leela Srinivasan, SCI AmeriCorps Member, capturing the spirit and dedication of AmeriCorps members and Jhona Xaviera Fabian, SCI AmeriCorps Program Coordinator, added energy to the day, celebrating the creativity and resilience of our AmeriCorps members.
The morning session of Opening Day wrapped up with the AmeriCorps Pledge, which was led by Lindsay Bennett-Jacobs, Massachusetts Service Alliance Board Member and AmeriCorps Alum.
During this ceremony, all members made a pledge to dedicate serving communities across America. By doing so, they aim to achieve safer, stronger, and healthier communities through their concerted efforts and initiatives.
AmeriCorps programs had the option of placing members in various diverse afternoon opportunities, including service projects at nonprofits like the Pine Street Inn and the Emerald Necklace Conservancy, tours at places like the State House and the Museum of African American History, and member development sessions led by AmeriCorps programs DIAL/SELF and Teach Western Mass.