Dear friends,

For many across our nation, Super Bowl Sunday has become more than simply a football game; it is a time to gather with friends and family in a thrilling celebration of food and fun.

Amidst the festivities, many in our Capital Region take the opportunity to go out into our neighborhoods and communities to serve others, and maybe give a high five or two. In that spirit, each year I like to spend a big part of my day visiting some of the incredible volunteer organizations working throughout our Capital Region. And where they need it, I try to lend a hand.

Tomorrow marks my 9th year celebrating in this way. And since it all started with a volunteer shift at one of our local soup kitchens, I call it my "Souper Bowl." 

Here's what I'm planning for Souper Bowl IX:

•    One of my favorite events every year is the FOCUS Churches of Albany: Empty Bowls fundraiser. I will be there to join with those who share a passion and commitment for ending hunger in the Capital District. We will help raise funds for this noble organization that provides more than 151,000 meals each year to people in and around the Capital community.

•    Later in the afternoon, I will visit City Mission of Schenectady for a volunteer shift. Established in 1906, City Mission has a long history in our Capital Region. This worthy organization is dedicated to helping provide for basic needs such as food, shelter and clothing.

•    I will cap off the evening with a visit to the "Sober Bowl" with my friends at New Choices Recovery Center in Schenectady, an event that welcomes members of our community affected by substance use disorder, along with their friends and loved ones, hosted by this vital organization whose work is helping eliminate the stigma attached to addiction.

Volunteer organizations are the heart and soul of our communities. They bind us together and work for the betterment of all. They also seem to attract people of uniquely good heart. The work they do is inspiring, and serving alongside them fills me with their spirit and goodwill. That is my Souper Bowl.

As you prepare for Super Bowl LIV tomorrow, I hope you will consider gathering your own friends and family a little early to start a new tradition. Find a local program or organization where you can volunteer together, organize a service event, or look for other ways to express your values and spirit of community. And for those whose plan for the day already includes a gift of service, thank you.

Trophies and touchdowns will be there for us when we gather tomorrow night, but the value of service and compassion toward our friends and neighbors will always endure. Let's go out and be "souper" heroes!