ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Wes Moore this week joined Maryland Corps and Service Year Option members for their all-corps gathering at the United States Naval Academy. Hosted by the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation, the event provided the governor with the opportunity to hear from the department’s first-in-the-nation cohort of program participants about their experiences during the first half of their service year.

“Our state needs your service. You’re the ones who are helping us recognize there is more that unites us than divides us, and you’re the ones who are helping us find new ways to come together again,” said Gov. Moore. “Thank you for raising your hands and for your contributions to making Maryland the state that serves—all of you are a part of the Maryland story.” 

The Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation is expanding service and volunteerism statewide, creating new pathways to meet community needs, enhance workforce development, and promote preparedness for both higher and vocational education. The department is home to the Service Year Option and Maryland Corps, in addition to bolstering the reach of existing volunteer opportunities through the Governor’s Office of Service and Volunteerism. Service Year Option and Maryland Corps members are more than halfway through their service term, which will conclude in July.

Governor Moore began his visit by participating in a service project, assembling care packages for first responders and veterans. The packages will be distributed to Charlotte Hall Veterans Home in St. Mary’s County and Anne Arundel Emergency Management.