Whereas, Peace Corps volunteers serve as ambassadors and have strengthened the ties of friendship and understanding between those of other countries and the United States; and,

Whereas, Since its implementation in 1960, more than 195,000 American men and women have served as Peace Corps volunteers in 139 countries; and,

Whereas, Over the past 48 years, 6,260 citizens from the state of Michigan have responded to the needs of others by serving as volunteers of the Peace Corps; and,

Whereas, Peace Corps volunteers have made significant and lasting contributions in agriculture, business development, information technology, education, health and HIV/AIDS, and the environment, and have improved countless number of lives around the world; and,

Whereas, It is indeed fitting to recognize the achievements of the Peace Corps and honor its volunteers, past and present, and reaffirm our country's commitment to helping people throughout the world;

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the week of February 23, 2009, Peace Corps Week in Michigan.  May all citizens recognize the many contributions that volunteers of the Peace Corps make that benefit not only those in other countries but also the communities in which they live.