Strengthening Community Service Programs

Mark Up of the “Generations Invigorating Volunteering and Education(GIVE) Act” Committee on Education and Labor

Opening Statement Congressman Todd Russell Platts (R-PA) - June 27, 2007

Thank you for joining us today for our consideration of the Generations Invigorating Volunteering and Education Act (GIVE Act).  For over thirteen years, the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), an independent federal agency tasked with administering federally funding service programs, has been coordinating community service efforts around the country.   Through its three main programs, SeniorCorps, AmeriCorps, and Learn and Serve America, CNCS helps Americans give back to their communities and nation.  
 
I would like to thank Chairman Miller, Ranking Member McKeon, and Congresswoman McCarthy for their hard work on this bill and their commitment to making the effort bi-partisan.  I am pleased to have been part of the discussion and appreciate the receptiveness of the majority staff to my priorities.  I believe that this bill strikes an appropriate balance between encouraging more participants in community service while strengthening the accountability of the programs.

I would also like to thank all of those volunteers who take time to give back to their communities.  As a Co-Chair of the National Service Caucus with Representatives Chris Shays, Doris Matsui, and David Price, I believe that community service should be a priority for all Americans.  I look forward to further strengthening community service programs today.

Thank you, I yield back my time.