'Unprecedented' 60,000 People Volunteer For Obama Inauguration

[babylonsister]

60,000 Volunteer for Inauguration; Most Won't Make Cut

By Michael E. Ruane
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, January 1, 2009; Page A01


An unprecedented 60,000 people have sent applications to the Presidential Inaugural Committee to volunteer for activities surrounding the swearing-in of Barack Obama -- even if it means simply giving directions or friendly hellos to out-of-towners at airports and Metro stops.

With several days of events, including the Jan. 20 swearing-in, the committee needs 15,000 to 18,000 volunteers, officials said. That's three times as many as were called upon for the inaugurations of George W. Bush.

Committee spokesman Kevin Griffis said: "There's a hunger out there. People want to get involved. People want to be a part of this thing . . . a part of history."

Officials have thinned the applicant pool to about 27,000, said Tripp Wellde, the committee's director of volunteers. They've been screening the offers via questionnaires that focus on availability and capability. But the applications keep coming in through the committee's Web site, with a deadline set for 11:59 p.m. tomorrow.

more...

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/12/31/AR2008123103082.html

[panader0]

1. Another Tripp?

You don't think Bristol named her son for the guy do you?
Very cool about all the volunteers.

[NYC_SKP]

2. Kicking because this source of energy is what will make this OUR administration.

Obama promoted participatory democracy throughout his campaign and this is an indication of the power of the people.

Recommended, too.

[Grateful for Hope]

3. This is indicative

of the enthusiasm that Obama has consistently inspired. K&R.

[jkshaw]

4. Sounds really good. Wish I was young enough to even

attend.

[AtomicKitten]

5. Thanks for posting this.

It is inspirational to read about this kind of volunteerism. I only hope these people have a place to stay because rumor has it unless you are filthy rich there is no more room at the inn.

[firedupdem]

6. See

what an inspiring leader can cause to happen? I can't wait until the fear mongering criminals are out of the the people's house!

I'm proud of My President and I know he will do well!

[DCBob]

7. I am one of those 60,000. I guess I made the first cut.

Got an email to attend a "training" on the 10th. Then they will tell us our "assignment". Hopefully I get something near the action but I will do whatever is needed.