Supporting National Service and Conservation Corps Day
Whereas there exists a network of National Service Programs (in this resolution referred to as ‘‘Service and Conservation Corps’’) that receive funding pursuant to subtitle C of the National and Community Service Act (42 U.S.C. 12571 et seq);
There are more than 150 Service and Conservation Corps across the country.
The Service and Conservation Corps Network
The network includes locally based organizations that engage young adults (generally ages 16 to 25) and veterans (up to age 35) in service projects that address recreation, disaster response, conservation, and community needs.
Historical Context: The Civilian Conservation Corps
Civilian Conservation Corps participants received food, shelter, education, and a $30-a-month stipend from 1933 to 1942, planting 3,000,000,000 trees and helping build trails, roads, campgrounds, and other park infrastructure still in use today.
The Modern Service and Conservation Corps
Most modern Service and Conservation Corps are nonprofits or operated by units of State or local government. They work with public-private partnerships to engage Corps-members in meaningful projects that address local and national issues.
The Corps Model and Compensation
Corpsmembers experience the ‘‘Corps model’’ where they gain work experience and develop in-demand skills. They are compensated with a stipend or living allowance, often receiving an education award or scholarship upon completing their service.
Projects and Partnerships
Service and Conservation Corps projects include the enhancement of neighborhoods and community public spaces, preservation and protection of public lands, shorelines, waterways, habitat, and wildlife, providing access to and enhancing recreation on public lands and waters, and mitigating, responding to, and recovering from natural disasters.
Emphasizing the Importance of National Service
Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives—1 (1) supports the designation of a ‘‘National Service and Conservation Corps Day’’;2 (2) congratulates the existing network of more than 150 Service and Conservation Corps on their contributions to the United States;3 (3) urges the citizens of the United States to recognize the importance of national service;4 (4) supports the continuation and expansion of the national network of Service and Conservation Corps under the National and Community Service Act (42 U.S.C. 12501 et seq.).
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