President Obama’s Weekly Address: “Crisis and Service”
Today President Obama dedicated his weekly address to the people of North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota as they face down disastrous flooding, and he commended the volunteers and emergency workers who have worked tirelessly over the past week to protect their communities.
He also spoke about the Edward M. Kennedy National Service Act, which will provide new and additional opportunities for Americans to serve their communities and the country:
At moments like these, we are reminded of the power of nature to disrupt lives and endanger communities. But we are also reminded of the power of individuals to make a difference.
In the Fargodome, thousands of people gathered not to watch a football game or a rodeo, but to fill sandbags. Volunteers filled 2.5 million of them in just five days, working against the clock, day and night, with tired arms and aching backs. Others braved freezing temperatures, gusting winds, and falling snow to build levees along the river’s banks to help protect against waters that have exceeded record levels.
College students have traveled by the busload from nearby campuses to lend a hand during Provigil online No prescription their spring breaks. Students from local high schools asked if they could take time to participate. Young people have turned social networks into community networks, coordinating with one another online to figure out how best to help.
In the face of an incredible challenge, the people of these communities have rallied in support of one another. And their service isn’t just inspirational – it’s integral to our response.It’s also a reminder of what we can achieve when Americans come together to serve their communities.
Learn how you can help support the ongoing disaster relief efforts . . .