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WASHINGTON, DC -- The House Education and Labor Committee today overwhelmingly approved legislation to expand and improve key community service programs, including AmeriCorps, VISTA, Senior Corps, and Learn and Serve America.
“Many of our communities needs’ are being met through the hard work of volunteers,” said Rep. George Miller (D-CA), the chairman of the committee. “These service programs and new initiatives will help to address some of our toughest problems – from poverty to natural disasters – and help improve the lives of millions of our most vulnerable citizens.”
“Today, the Education and Labor Committee recognized the important role volunteers play in our society and strengthened the programs that facilitate volunteerism,” said Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D-NY), the lead sponsor of the legislation. “The GIVE Act will provide volunteers and the organizations behind them the resources and support they need to continue serving our communities and will foster the spirit of service throughout our nation.”
The legislation, the Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education Act (H.R. 2857), would:
- Increase the number of AmeriCorps volunteers from 75,000 to 100,000 by 2012;
- Increase stipends for AmeriCorps volunteers from $4,725 to $5,225 by 2012;
- Initiate a “Summer of Service” program for young people from middle school through high school to give them the opportunity to spend a summer in service to their community, for which they would receive a $500 stipend for college or for college preparation; and
- Create an AmeriCorps Alumni Reserves Network aimed at tapping into the skills and experience of alumni volunteers, with a particular focus on assisting during emergencies or natural disasters.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Tom Kiley / Rachel Racusen
2181 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515
202-226-0853
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