February 3, 2009
On January 28, 2009 the U.S. House of Representatives passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (HR. 1), also known as the economic stimulus plan. The legislation includes $200 million for the Corporation for National and Community Service which supports AmeriCorps. AmeriCorps is to receive $160 million with the remaining $40 million going to the National Service Trust. The committee report cites the challenges facing the nonprofit sector and notes that “nonprofit organizations are also experiencing an increased number of applications for service opportunities and increased demand for services for vulnerable populations to meet critical needs” and suggests the funding would engage an estimated 16,000 more AmeriCorps members. We want to hear from you. Is being included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act a Band–Aid on the cause of civic engagement that is regularly supported in theory but not often recognized as a First Responder to many social issues? Or is it a down payment on civic engagement that acknowledges the importance and impact of service on our communities? Please leave your comment and let us know what you think.