Tell Barack - Support the Peace Corps and Public Service
The new Obama administration is going to be placing a higher priority on service than we have seen in a long time. This is a good thing. One of the most successful programs has been the Peace Corps.
On TellBarack.org (http://tellbarack.org/?page_id=635) we have created a video asking Barack to support the Peace Corps:
Improving the Peace Corps doesn't need to be at the top of the list of things for Obama to be doing at first. But it will be an emphasis on service - and what we can do to change America - that will make his Presidency unique and successful.
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this is clipped from a longer section on service on the new transition web site: http://change.gov/
"Enable All Americans to Serve to Meet the Nation's Challenges
* Expand Corporation for National and Community Service: Obama and Biden will expand AmeriCorps from 75,000 slots today to 250,000 and they will focus this expansion on addressing the great challenges facing the nation. They will establish a Classroom Corps to help teachers and students, with a priority placed on underserved schools; a Health Corps to improve public health outreach; a Clean Energy Corps to conduct weatherization and renewable energy projects; a Veterans Corps to assist veterans at hospitals, nursing homes and homeless shelters; and a Homeland Security Corps to help communities plan, prepare for and respond to emergencies.
* Engage Retiring Americans in Service on a Large Scale: Older Americans have a wide range of skills and knowledge to contribute. Obama and Biden will expand and improve programs that connect individuals over the age of 55 to quality volunteer opportunities.
* Expand the Peace Corps: Obama and Biden will double the Peace Corps to 16,000 by 2011. They will work with the leaders of other countries to build an international network of overseas volunteers so that Americans work side-by-side with volunteers from other countries.
* Show the World the Best Face of America: Obama and Biden will set up an America's Voice Initiative to send Americans who are fluent speakers of local languages to expand our public diplomacy. They also will extend opportunities for older individuals such as teachers, engineers, and doctors to serve overseas.
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November 6, 2008 5:12 PM | Reply | Permalink