Winter 2009
Recap of National Mentoring Month 2009
Aaron Eilerts Day of Service February 24
College Student Helps Document the Impact of AmeriCorps Members in the Spring Disasters
Governor Culver, Lt. Governor Judge Thank Iowans for Service on MLK Day
2009 Learn and Serve Community-Based Funds and Applications are Available
Service Spotlight- AmeriCorps Member Norma Boge
Governor’s Volunteer Award Nominations due March 9
4th Annual Volunteer Awareness Day to be held in Capitol on Feb. 25
Federal Issue - Serve America Act
Federal Issue - AmeriCorps funding in the House Economic Stimulus Plan
Other Federal News - President Obama Urges Service
Federal Issue - AmeriCorps funding in the House Economic Stimulus Plan
House Democratic leaders released their $825 billion economic stimulus package last week, featuring $550 billion in spending and $275 billion in tax breaks.
It was announced that the Corporation for National and Community Service would received $200 million in stimulus funding. Included in the plan:
- $160,000,000 to expand existing AmeriCorps grants
- $40,000,000 for the National Service Trust
The committee also released the following report language:
- AmeriCorps Programs Recovery funding: $200 million
The non-profit sector of the U.S. economy is in danger of facing significant job losses due to shrinking revenue as a result of the recession. But at the same time, non-profit organizations are also experiencing an increased number of applications for service opportunities and increased demand for services for vulnerable populations to meet critical needs in communities across the U.S. By providing AmeriCorps with increased funding, not only will those seeking service opportunities find a way to contribute needed services to their communities, but they will be rewarded for that service with education awards to help pay for further education or pay off student loans. This recovery package will engage an estimated 16,000 additional volunteers in service opportunities.
The announcements were just the first step in the process, as House committees prepare to mark up the package next week in hopes of sending a final bill to incoming President Obama by Feb. 13, when Congress is scheduled to begin its Presidents Day break.
You can view House Appropriations proposal here at www.appropriations.house.gov .
If you have questions, or need additional information, please contact the Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service, at 1.800.308.5987 or icvs@iowa.gov .