Governor Jan Brewer Announces Volunteer Effort of ArizonaSERVES

Press Release

Governor Jan Brewer today announced the launch of official outreach of the
ArizonaSERVES initiative to maximize resources to address the needs of those affected by the economic downturn and reduction in services.

"The support from faith-based and various non-profit organizations seeking to help those in need during this difficult economic downturn has been tremendous," said Governor Brewer. "In a time of fiscal crisis, faithbased
and community organizations consistently demonstrate a commitment to serve Arizona's children, adults and families. ArizonaSERVES provides an additional tool to these organizations to help serve those in need. "

In her 2010 State of the State address, Governor Brewer announced the formation of ArizonaSERVES to connect faith-based and community organizations with existing efforts to assist Arizona's most vulnerable
populations, including the elderly, disabled and low income residents.

The Task Force is now ready to begin its official outreach phase and has begun to spread its message to faith-based and community organizations. Governor Brewer is also issuing the attached "Call to Serve" asking Arizonans to help their neighbors in these great times of need, and providing information about how they can lend a hand.

"Governor Brewer's leadership has opened the door for a new level of engagement in the faith based community," said Dr. Terry M. Crist, who serves as Chairman of the ArizonaSERVES Task Force and leads
the City of Grace congregation. "In response to her call to service, pastors across the state are beginning to mobilize their congregations to meet the needs of hurting families and individuals in Arizona."

During the past year, members of the ArizonaSERVES Task Force have committed a substantial amount of time determining how faith-based and non-profit organizations can utilize existing resources and programs to help in areas most affected by funding reductions.

The ArizonaSERVES Task Force has been working to identify strategies to encourage foster care participation; facilitate the provision of free or reduced cost child care services through existing licensed facilities; provide support for supervised Child Protective Service visits; promote elder independence and assist grandparents raising grandchildren; and provide transportation to the underserved. Task Force members have met regularly to develop the most effective processes and measures to connect community resources with
those in need. For more information please visit: www.ArizonaSERVES.gov.

Source