52 Young Idealists pledged to give a year to change the world
City Year Opening Day Ceremony and Celebration
Friday, September 9, 2011
City Hall Plaza, Manchester, NH
11:00am-12:15pm
Sponsored by: 
On September 9th, 52 young idealists took a pledge to dedicate a year of service to Manchester and the surrounding communities of New Hampshire. The celebration took place right outside of City Hall in downtown Manchester, New Hampshire. On hand to address the corps was Senior Vice President of Comcast Northeast Division Mark Reilly, Manchester Mayor Ted Gatsas, Superintendent of the Manchester School District Dr. Tom Brennan, Lieutenant Scott Legasse from the Manchester Police Department and City Year Board Chair Lesa Scott. Their inspiring words were followed by an introduction of each City Year team, with every corps member delivering a powerful statement about why he/she is choosing to give a year to change the world.
The ceremony was followed by a light lunch, mingling, and celebration at the City Year New Hampshire Headquarters on the second floor at 848 Elm Street, Manchester, NH.
The corps and staff at City Year New Hampshire are very grateful for all the guests and speakers who attended to support their work serving Manchester and the surrounding communities. The day sparked energy and idealism that is sure to carry on for the remainder of the year.
Some "Why I serve" statements spoken at the 2011 Opening Day Ceremony:
“I serve because I believe in the power of education to transform lives and I want to be a part of that change.”
– Emily Chen, corps member
serving at Bakersville Elementary School
“I serve because I can genuinely relate to the powerful impact that service has on a young child's life.”
– Travis Vigneault, corps member
serving at Gossler Park Elementary School
“I serve because it is what I love to do and I believe in doing what you love. I hope that by following my dreams and listening to my heart, I can empower the world to do the same.”
– Abbi MacFarlane, senior corps member
serving on the Project Leader Team