With 130 convictions of New Jersey politicians for corruption during the past seven years, we know that prosecutions alone will not restore our democracy. The only way to reverse a culture of corruption is to restore a culture of service. It is something that should take on a greater meaning with Sept. 11 as the National Day of Service and Remembrance.

Here in New Jersey, the Citizens' Campaign's Jersey Call to Service has identified thousands of opportunities for public service, which only take a few hours a week and offer a chance to make positive change in our hometown and state government.

We need to become an engaged citizenry. That is why, in addition to drafting model ethics reform laws for state and local government, the Citizens' Campaign has launched the Jersey Call to Service, which will give ordinary citizens the knowledge, ability and power to par-ticipate in government beyond the ballot box. It provides constructive leadership and guidance on the problems facing our municipalities, county and state.

Now is the time for New Jersey citizens to use their time, talents and leadership abilities to serve their communities and build a better future.

About 60 percent of New Jersey residents believe that being a good citizen means having some special obligations, and nearly two-thirds feel it is important for them to be active in their communities, according to a recent Monmouth University/ Gannett Poll. Many just don't know how.

Citizens who are finally ready to answer the Call to Service should enroll in the Citizens' Campaign by visiting our Web site at www.jointhecampaign.com.

With some free training and support, you can begin making a difference in your local government in and taking a leadership service role. Our goal is to recruit and train 5,000 new leaders over the next three years.

The upcoming gubernatorial, First Legislative District and Cumberland County freeholders elections offer all of us a chance to "discover our voice"-- metaphorically, to signal our own sense of empowerment, confidence and newfound courage. After all, given the political indictments and abuses of public office, each of us has a responsibility to commit ourselves to the betterment of New Jersey.