Inaugural weekend begins in Western MA

EASTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - Today marks the first day of President Obama's inauguration weekend.

On Saturday morning, Western Mass. volunteers will participate in National Day of Service organized by the inaugural committee.

Thirty-five volunteers from the Easthampton Democratic Committee will be volunteering at the Community Center starting at 10am.

Easthampton is one of many communities around the country that will be dedicating some time to community service.

In fact, the First Family and VP Joe Biden and his wife will also participate in the National Day of Service.

They will be going around the Washington DC area with some members of the Cabinet to work on various service projects. Projects ranging from serving breakfast to homeless to cleaning up parks.

Day of Service was added to inaugural activities by President Obama in 2009 in hopes that it will become a tradition for future presidents.

The Easthampton Democratic Committee Chairperson said in a news release that although not everyone can actually attend the ceremonies this weekend, this is one way Western Mass. residents can be part of the Inauguration weekend.

Easthampton Community Center hosts food drives throughout the year to help local families in need.

It's also home to a community kitchen that serves hot meals three times a week.