Office of Veterans Services Launches Yearlong Acts of Service Campaign

08:00AM / Sunday, January 26, 2025Print Story | Email Story

BOSTON — The Executive Office of Veterans Services launched the "2025 Acts of Service" campaign, a statewide initiative to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy and promote impactful support for veterans in need across Massachusetts.

This yearlong campaign, which features digital and in-person service opportunities, will unite communities through projects that directly benefit veterans and their families, while emphasizing equity, inclusion, and unity.

"Dr. King's vision for equity and service continues to inspire us all," said Secretary Jon Santiago. "At the Executive Office of Veterans Services, we regularly hear stories about incredible individuals and organizations performing community service. This campaign shines a light on these unsung heroes and fosters a spirit of unity across Massachusetts."

The campaign kicked off during Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Jan. 20. The office will leverage partnerships with Massachusetts-based agencies, nonprofits, and veteran service organizations to maximize outreach and engagement, culminating in a statewide day of service during its annual Veterans Week celebration in November. A dedicated campaign website will allow individuals to submit acts of service, share inspiring stories, and celebrate achievements.

"This campaign gives us a chance to show our gratitude to veterans while embodying the principles of equity and service championed by Dr. King," said Deputy Secretary Andrea Gayle-Bennett. "It's a powerful way to strengthen communities and ensure that every act of service makes a difference."

The office invites all Massachusetts residents, organizations, and communities to participate. Those who know someone making a significant impact in the veteran community, submit their story through the campaign website. Outstanding contributions will be celebrated during a Volunteer Recognition Ceremony during Veterans Week (November 10-14, 2025).

For more information and how to participate, visit 2025 Acts of Service Campaign | Mass.gov.

iBerkshires.com Text Ads

rk MILES Blding Materials

Are You Ready to Update Your Home? Start With rk MILES. 4 Locations (800)670-7433

www.rkmiles.com

RIBCO Supply

Check out our great lineup of Boss Plows, and spreaders. 2 Locations Clarksburg & Pittsfield!

ribcosupply.com

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Possible Measles Exposure at Boston, Logan

12:05PM / Wednesday, December 24, 2025

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Public Health confirmed Wednesday that an out-of-state adult visitor who spent time in Boston and Westborough earlier this month was diagnosed with measles and was present in a number of locations.

This could have resulted in other people being exposed to measles virus.

The visitor arrived at Logan International Airport on American Airlines flight 2384 from Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, on Dec. 11 at 2:39 p.m. They stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston-Westborough in Westborough and departed the state on Dec. 12 via Logan at 9:19 p.m. on JetBlue flight 117 to Las Vegas.

DPH is working with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local partners to identify and notify those who may have been exposed to measles from this individual.

"Measles is a highly contagious, airborne disease, which has increased significantly in the United States because of the unfortunate decrease in vaccination rates. It is also a preventable disease," said Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein. "This current situation serves as an important reminder of the critical role vaccination plays in protecting our communities. While Massachusetts has not had a measles case this year, 2025 saw the highest number of nationwide cases in more than a decade — nearly 2,000 in 44 jurisdictions, and sadly, three deaths.

"Fifteen years ago, measles had been considered eliminated in the United States, but that tremendous progress is at risk. Vaccines are one of the most important public health interventions ever — they are safe, effective, and lifesaving."

Measles is very contagious. However, the risk to most people in Massachusetts is low because the vaccination rate in the state is high. People who are not immune and visited any of the locations on the following dates and times may be at risk for developing measles.

View Full Story