Rep. Andrews Votes in Favor to Triple the American Response to Volunteerism

Today, Congressman Andrews addressed the House of Representatives and spoke in favor of legislation that will launch a new era of national service and help our nation withstand its rising challenges. The Generations Invigorating Volunteerism and Education (GIVE) Act provides the most significant expansion of service opportunities since President Kennedy issued the challenge to the American people to "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." Today, the House of Representatives has echoed this challenge by passing President Obama's bill to provide Americans of all ages with the tools necessary to volunteer and serve for our nation's recovery and prosperity.

The GIVE Act directly addresses our nation's rising economic concerns. Not only does this legislation triple the amount of volunteers nationwide from 75,000 to 250,000 to assist efforts such as tutoring and mentoring disadvantaged youth, fighting literacy, cleaning parks and streams and responding to national disasters, but it also expands funding for tuition assistance and allows more Americans to access higher education and occupational training which will better prepare them for today's tight job market. Additionally, this legislation recognizes and supports colleges and universities with exemplary service-learning programs and assists students in the pursuit of public service careers. Also, the GIVE Act establishes a Community Solutions Fund that awards competitive matching grants to social entrepreneur venture funds in order to provide community organizations with the resources to replicate or expand proven solutions to community challenges. This fund will provide relief for many non-profits who are experiencing difficult budget constraints during the economic crisis. Thus, there will be more emphasis on recruiting professionals and experts such as scientists, technicians, mathematicians and engineers who are vital to service in America and keeping our country competitive.

As Americans continue to struggle for employment, affordable health care and quality education, Congressman Andrews remains a leading voice in support legislation like the GIVE Act, which provides more incentives to help fellow Americans in need. While this legislation will benefit millions of individuals who require assistance during these difficult economic times, it will ultimately address our nation's overall challenges and improve our country as a whole.

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