Speech
Award for Civic Engagement
Remarks of Governor Judy Martz
State Capitol
10/27/2002
Good evening. I’m pleased to have the opportunity to join you as we recognize those who have stepped forward and volunteered to improve their communities.
I want to thank you for your efforts to encourage civic engagement. Your work is key to making Montana a better place to live.
Civic engagement can be defined as people stepping forward to accomplish the things that need to be done to make our communities, schools and state a better place to live, work and play. Demonstrated by the crowd here tonight we are doing a great job of that in Montana!
I remember when the Montana Commission on Community Service expanded the vision from volunteerism to civic engagement. George Dennison, President of the University of Montana and Chairman of the Commission, led the change.
I strongly believe in volunteerism. In fact, the concept of volunteerism was the true driving force behind Montana’s Promise. Through the Promise, I have seen young people take a renewed interest in building and strengthening their communities.
But more than that, I saw leaders developing assets; cities and towns coming together to address local issues; and volunteers working to create a wholesome environment for Montana’s citizens to grow and flourish.
In addition to the importance of volunteerism, this process truly demonstrated civic engagement.
Two years ago, the Montana Commission on Community Service recognized four individuals for their Civic Engagement efforts. In 2001 the commission rewarded two more.
These people, engaged their communities to the fullest extent. As a result, a rodeo ground, libraries and a movie theater were rebuilt and senior homes were painted and revitalized.
These results were achieved because six people multiplied their efforts tenfold by engaging other citizens.
The key to Civic Engagement is participation. Life is not a spectator sport.
Civic engagement requires that all individuals identify the needs and wants in their neighborhood or community. Once these needs are acknowledged, people must come together as a mutual force to address those issues.
Tonight we will recognize three individuals and an organization that have significantly contributed to making our state a better place. I ask you to join me in congratulating them for what they have given us and also to recognize them as role models and mentors.
Tonight, as you learn of their achievements, I hope you recognize your potential within the accomplishments of these award winners. I hope you think – I can do that. I can accomplish those same goals for my local community.
When you leave tonight, I ask that you consider committing your time and efforts to your local community. Commit yourself to making your community and state a better place.
President Bush, early in his administration, urged every American to dedicate four thousand (4000) hours to their country and fellow man.
I urge you, not only to give the four thousand (4000) hours, but also to be selective with your time and ensure your community and country are a stronger place because you serve. I also urge you to ask, persuade and entice your friends to join you.
I hope that you will log your efforts, because your volunteer service and engagement is a legacy to your children and grandchildren. It is a model for a healthier community and state.
The United States is a strong nation — Montana a great state.
We are stronger because we volunteer. We are stronger because we engage our friends and neighbors for the betterment of our communities. And through that strength, we will continue serve as role models as we build a lasting legacy for our children and grandchildren.
I know you will continue to join me in that effort.
Good evening, and may God Bless Montana.
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