The President came into office with a vision of a national service program that would offer young people the chance to serve our nation in exchange for increased access to higher education. Since 1993, more than 100,000 people have enrolled in AmeriCorps. Thousands of communities across America have seen that national service helps them meet vital needs in education, public safety, the environment, and other human needs. AmeriCorps also increases the reach of volunteers because, on average, AmeriCorps members recruit and train at least 12 unpaid volunteers. In addition to AmeriCorps, national service includes programs for students and seniors.
Students perform service in their communities that is linked to what they are learning in school.
The President also announced that this week the Corporation for National Service awarded more than 70 grants to communities to organize service events on Martin Luther King Day. Our newest holiday has a growing tradition of service, springing from Dr. King's deep belief in service. In 1994, Congress designated the Martin Luther King Holiday as a day of service. As Dr. King said, Everybody can be great because anybody can serve. The President also noted progress since the Presidents' service summit in April, when corporations, civic and educational organizations, and government entities committed to new action for children and youth.