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Thousands around the state volunteer for Commonwealth Day of Service

Posted at 12:43 AM, Jan 05, 2014
and last updated 2014-01-05 01:35:17-05

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - On Saturday, several Richmonders gave back on this Commonwealth Day of Service by volunteering at the Central Virginia Food Bank and cleaning up the shoreline on the James.

In all, 80 events were held all across the state.

When governor elect Terry McAuliffe won in November, he and his wife Dorothy made it a point to stress the importance of giving back to the community and what impact it would have over the next four years.

One couple said the idea is a good way to keep people connected and involved in their neighborhoods.

"I think it's something that people need to think about, they need to do," volunteer Glen Besa said.  "It's important for all of us to contribute."

While this was just the first day of service, many volunteers believe this won't be the last.

"I don't know what McAuliffe's exact plans are," event organizer and volunteer Kelly Beekman said, "but it's certainly something that if you can get people excited about once, why not tap into that again and make it a regular thing.”

McAuliffe and his wife volunteered in Northern Virginia.  The Day of Service is just the start of a week of festivities leading up to Saturday’s Inauguration ceremony.

McAuliffe will be sworn-in as the 72nd Governor of the Commonwealth.