A Message from the Chairman

For over a decade, Massachusetts Service Alliance (MSA) has been supporting and developing cutting edge programs that expand upon the Commonwealth's rich history of service and civic engagement.

As the state commission on community service and volunteerism, Massachusetts Service Alliance provides funding to support a vast network of AmeriCorps, Mentoring, and Community Service-Learning programs across the Commonwealth.

Yet, we are much more than simply a grant maker.

MSA seeks to lead a movement that is about people and about meeting human needs. By promoting service-related policies and initiatives, MSA represents those whose voices have not been heard.  Our training and technical assistance services are the fuel and the muscle that allow programs to more effectively and innovatively meet the needs of the Commonwealth.  By bringing together individuals, nonprofits, corporations, and governments, we seek to be connector that triggers action and solutions to some of the most pressing issues facing our communities.

Most importantly, we believe that service is about creating opportunities that enrich the lives of both the givers and receivers of service.

This is the MSA that we have before us today and the organization that will continue to work until all people of the Commonwealth can embrace the wisdom of Marian Wright Edelman when she said, "service is the rent each of us pays for living -- the very purpose of life and not something you do in your spare time or after you have reached your personal goals."

Warm regards,

Brendan Coughlin
Chairman, Massachusetts Service Alliance