Bipartisan bill will help nonprofit groups recruit volunteers
WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords today welcomed the passage of bipartisan legislation aimed at boosting volunteerism by significantly expanding national service opportunities.
“The volunteer spirit has long been a cornerstone of our democracy,” said Giffords. “Since the birth of our nation, Americans of all ages have been inspired to support one another. Entire communities benefit when neighbors rise to the challenge to help others in need. Today, many people need help like never before. This legislation will make it easier for them to receive it.”
The Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act passed the House this afternoon in a 275 to 149 vote. It passed the Senate last week, 79 to 19. President Obama has said he will sign the act into law.
Under the act, $5.7 billion will be spent over the next five years to expand the reach of national service programs. Among them is the 16-year old AmeriCorps program, which deploys thousands of volunteers every year to help build affordable homes and respond to disasters.
In addition to tripling the number of AmeriCorps enrollees, the bill outlines five areas where volunteers can direct their efforts: veterans, education, clean energy, health care and the economically disadvantaged. There also are provisions to encourage seniors and teens to volunteer by granting education awards.
“The downturn in the economy has sparked a new interest in national service,” Giffords said. “Applications to programs like AmeriCorps are soaring as Americans from all walks of life look for ways to contribute. The bill passed by the House today will help channel that interest so that we all may benefit.”