In his 1961 inaugural address, President John F. Kennedy called Americans to public service and civic duty with his now-oft-quoted statement, “Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.”
It inspired Americans, especially the baby boom generation that was coming of age.
Now, as our country reaches its 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026, the nonpartisan U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission has kicked off its America250 campaign.
Yes, you can add “semiquincentennial” to your daily vocabulary as it refers to a 250th anniversary — half of a 500th or quincentennial celebration.
America250’s goal is to engage ALL 350 million Americans in celebrating this milestone in three ways:
- Our American Story — A nationwide initiative to preserve the voices of everyday Americans and collect the largest audiovisual archive of American stories ever created
- America’s Field Trip — A multiyear contest for students in grades three to 12 to submit artwork and essays for the chance to earn unique experiences at iconic American sites
- America Gives — Helping make our country’s 250th birthday a record-setting year of volunteer service
The America Gives initiative is a wonderful follow-up to Kennedy’s challenge of 65 years ago.
The effort is focused on reinvigorating a year-round culture of service in 2026 and beyond — grounded in three key pillars: charitable giving, volunteering and public service (which includes military service).
It’s a challenge to every American to unite and work together to give back. A chance for every one of us to realize how lucky we are to be Americans.
“Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.”
president john f. kennedy
Everyone knows America isn’t perfect — our own Declaration of Independence talked about forming a more perfect union — and we’re still working on it. But it’s time to set aside our differences and pull together.
You’ll be pleased to note that America250 is a nonprofit, nonpartisan initiative working to engage every American in commemorating our great country.
The effort is supported by a bipartisan congressional caucus of more than 350 members, with former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama serving as honorary co-chairmen.
And the effort has the backing of hundreds of American companies.
What a great time for Americans to pull together, tell our stories, see the country and give back. We need a way to remember what unites us regardless of our differences — and America250 is just that way.
So, I challenge each of you to share your stories, encourage your kids and grandkids to submit artwork and essays, and most important, for YOU TO GIVE. Donate to a charity that means something to you and give your time to volunteer.
As a 27-year member of Rotary, this fits right in with our motto of “Service Above Self” and giving the 3-Ts: Time, Talent and Treasure.
Imagine how much better we can make our country if every single American stepped up like this. I think it will be truly inspiring.