Radio Address: MSECCA Reminds Us of the Importance of Giving Back to our Communities

September 8, 2016

(MP3 Audio)

When the call goes out to help our neighbors in need, Mainers respond.

Hello, this is Governor Paul LePage.

As someone who has been without, I know how meaningful charitable donations can be in bettering the lives of those less fortunate as they get on their feet.

I have had many opportunities through the years to see the generosity of our fellow citizens in helping our neighbors in need. It is not government hand-outs, but the great compassion and commitment Maine people and community organizations have for lending a hand-up, that is improving lives and strengthening our great state.

This week I joined Commissioner Bernhardt to kick-off the 2016 Maine State Employees? Combined Charitable Campaign Appeal to support some of the organizations. Commissioner Bernhardt is serving as chair of the 2016 MSECCA campaign and during the 37 year history of MSECCA it has raised nearly $9 million.

Your contributions can make the difference for them being able to provide a hand up to members of our communities or having to close their doors. Last year, by contributing nearly $250,000 to charitable organizations, we continued with Maine?s strong tradition of looking out for one another.

We are all well aware of the economic reality and the effect it has on our households. In times like this, donations of any size are valued more than ever, and the combination of many small gifts has a profound impact. Your time volunteering is another way to give back to your community, as well. The value in volunteering is beneficial to not only the recipient, but also the volunteer.

Whether it is time or money, I would like to thank our state employees for their generosity and encourage others to think about how they may be able to support their local non-profit or organization that makes a difference in their community.

Thank you for listening.