California Volunteers chief praises statewide volunteers, urges continued engagement

Josh Friday, chief service officer for California Volunteers, thanked volunteers in brief recorded remarks and urged them to remain engaged, saying their work "makes a difference in the lives of so many."

In concise remarks captured in the meeting transcript, Friday congratulated volunteers on accomplishments over the past year and said Gov. Gavin Newsom, himself and "the entire state of California couldn't be more proud of you." He described volunteers as "the embodiment of California, the best of us," and thanked them for "your passion, your dedication, and your service," calling their work "an inspiration to all of us."

The recorded excerpt is limited to recognition and encouragement; it does not include any formal actions, policy proposals, or details about specific programs or funding. Friday concluded by urging volunteers to "stay involved, stay engaged, and continue making a difference in your community." The transcript does not indicate whether Gov. Newsom or other state officials attended the event.