National service is a challenge for Americans from every background and walk of life, and it values something far more than money.
National service is nothing less than the American way to change America.
With these words, President Clinton launched AmeriCorps and the Corporation for National Service, starting a new chapter in the long tradition of citizen service in America. Since 1993, millions of Americans have served in national service programs, bringing about lasting improvements in our communities and demonstrating that service can be an effective strategy for solving problems. Recognizing that our strength as a nation depends on individuals who act on their commitment to help others, national service provides opportunities for all citizens to do their part. More and more Americans are taking advantage of those opportunities by tutoring and mentoring children, making neighborhoods safer, helping communities recover from natural disasters, building Habitat for Humanity homes, restoring parks and doing hundreds of other things to improve lives and bring people together. Tapping the power of citizens to get things done will be even more important as we enter a new century full of challenges.