"We recognize the value of national service as a tool in meeting important needs in our states," the governors wrote in the letter, which was delivered to the majority and minority leaders in the Senate and House of Representatives. "We have seen national service at work and want to continue and expand service in our communities, states, and country. For these reasons and many more, we strongly urge Congress to pass legislation reauthorizing the Corporation for National and Community Service." Read the complete text of the letter.

The bipartisan effort was led by Michigan Governor John Engler. "Every governor believes strongly in the ethic of community service because service is the cornerstone of strong communities," said Engler. "That's why state leaders from across the country and from both parties have joined in this effort. From mentoring programs to math tutors, volunteers are making a difference in the lives of children, and we must continue to encourage every American to volunteer for America."

Legislation to reauthorize and reform national service programs is pending in the House of Representatives. H.R. 4854, the Citizen Service Act, cleared the House Education and Workforce Committee on June 12 on a near unanimous vote. The bill, based on principles put forth by President Bush in April, was introduced by House Select Education Subcommittee Chairman Pete Hoekstra (R-MI), Ranking Member Tim Roemer (D-IN), and House Education and Workforce Committee Chair John Boehner (R-OH).

Commenting on the letter, which was individually signed by governors of 50 states and the Virgin Islands, Reps. Hoekstra and Roemer said, "At a time when individuals of all ages and backgrounds are looking for new opportunities to make a difference in their communities and neighborhoods, Congress should embrace this movement and pass this reauthorization of the Corporation for National and Community Service."

Leslie Lenkowsky, CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service, thanked the governors for their support. "The nation's governors have spoken and their message is clear: reauthorize national service." He noted the vital role that states play in determining where AmeriCorps members serve. More than three-fourths of AmeriCorps grant funding goes to bipartisan state commissions appointed by governors. These commissions determine needs in their state, distribute grants to local nonprofits and agencies, and monitor grantees to ensure quality and compliance with federal law.

The Citizen Service Act reauthorization bill is based on President Bush's four major reform objectives: to support and encourage greater engagement of citizens in volunteering; to make Federal funds more responsive to state and local needs; to make Federal support more accountable and effective; and to provide greater assistance to secular and faith-based community organizations.

The Corporation for National and Community Service was established in 1993 to engage Americans of all ages and backgrounds in service to their communities. The Corporation oversees AmeriCorps, Learn and Serve America and Senior Corps, engaging more than two million Americans in service to their communities and country each year. For more information, call 1-202-606-5000 or visit www.nationalservice.org.