Office of Veterans Services Launches Yearlong Acts of Service Campaign

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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.

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Pittsfield Earns Road Win at Westfield in Little League Sectional

By Stephen DravisiBerkshires.com Sports
WESTFIELD, Mass. – Hector Reyes-Colon broke a scoreless tie with a monster home run in the fourth inning, and the Pittsfield Little League All-Stars went on to a 9-1 win over Westfield in the first game of the Section 1 Championship on Wednesday night.
 
Myles Morrison-Gould held Westfield scoreless for 4 and a third innings before Carmelo Coco and Thomas Lacatell finished up as Pittsfield advanced in the winners’ bracket and set up a Thursday date with Holden.
 
Morrison-Gould and Westfield’s Keegan Welch (four strikeouts, four innings pitched) were locked in a pitchers duel until Reyes-Colon stepped into the box with two out in the top of the fourth.
 
He hammered a 1-0 pitch deep over the center field fence to give Pittsfield a 1-0 lead, and the District 1 Championship never looked back.
 
“Hector was just trying to get a base hit there, so that was beautiful,” Pittsfield coach Joe Skutnik said.
 
Skutnik agreed that Reyes-Colon helped break the seal and propel Pittsfield to a five-run rally in the top of the fifth.
 
“That was the second time through the order, too,” he added. “So the second time through, I think we did a lot better job at the plate.”
 
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