Committee Statements

It’s great to be here with such a dynamic panel of witnesses who make volunteerism “cool.”

I am a longtime supporter of volunteerism. Whether it’s something we do as individuals and families in our own communities, or something we do as citizens coordinated at the national level, volunteerism is a hallmark of what makes America great.

Volunteering our time and our talents is a way that all Americans can give back. We all have something to contribute, no matter where we’re from, how much money we earn, or what we do for a living.

Millions of Americans volunteer in their communities, from serving meals to those who are hungry to mentoring underprivileged children. Much of this work is done independently, without an infrastructure or a program to coordinate the work. People just roll up their sleeves and give where they can.

Many other Americans have gotten involved with private philanthropy. For instance, some of our witnesses today have created and immersed themselves in private volunteering initiatives that bring individuals together to serve as a group.  Hearings like this one give us an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the organizations that are doing things all on their own to promote volunteerism and service, whether it’s within a corporation or an entire industry. I also think it’s important to hear what a wide and diverse range of groups can do to promote service. For that reason, I am pleased to have an expert here to discuss the important role faith-based organizations play in getting Americans involved in helping their communities.

And in addition to the work of individuals and private groups, many other Americans have chosen to engage in what we call “national service,” the service programs coordinated on the national stage by the Corporation for National and Community Service. Approximately 2.5 million Americans engage in community service each year through the Corporation’s programs, which exist in all 50 states and right here in the District of Columbia.  This hearing provides us with a good opportunity to learn more about the unique opportunities that exist within the national service realm. For instance, I’m interested in what these programs can do to assist veterans continuing with their desire to serve and to help the current members of the military and their families.

Later this year, this committee will once again attempt to reauthorize national service programs. We can bring these programs into the 21st century by ensuring they are targeted, effective, and efficient, and I look forward to doing that. We can also ensure that programs allow the participation of smaller organizations – faith-based or otherwise – to participate. Many Americans choose to participate through these local organizations who really know the needs of the communities they serve.

I hope we also bear in mind that government-coordinated national service is just one segment of a much broader system of volunteerism in this country. I want to commend our witnesses for their work in the range of volunteer strategies. You are giving of yourselves, and setting an example for others to do the same. And for that, I want to personally thank you.

 

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