Congressman Cohen Statement on Passage of the GIVE Act

Today, I cast my vote in favor of H.R. 1388, a bill that should reinvigorate the spirit of American service and volunteerism in our country. The bill answers President Obama’s call for Americans of all generations to help their country during this current economic crisis by serving and volunteering in their communities. We are at a critical moment in history. It’s time that we come together as a nation and help one another through public service.

The GIVE Act is more than ideology; it is action. It provides a framework and funding for the volunteer efforts in this country. Unfortunately, for far too long, inspiring citizens to engage in national service has not been a priority in the White House or the Congress.

The GIVE Act will:

• More than triple the numbers of volunteers serving in this country, from the current 75,000 to 250,000;
• Create a new Summer of Service program with stipends that students can use to pay for college, and create new innovative programs to help improve student achievement and graduation in low-income school; and
• Expand health care access, provide seniors with help living independently, enhance services for veterans, and help build a green, energy-efficient economy.

On January 20th, 1961, President John F. Kennedy said, “And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country.” Today, the 111th Congress and President Obama have echoed that call, and it is my hope that the GIVE Act renews the spirit of service and patriotism that President Kennedy embodied.

For more information on the GIVE Act, please visit: https://edlabor.house.gov/blog/2009/03/the-generations-invigorating-v.shtml.

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Contact:
Marilyn Dillihay, Press Secretary, 202-225-3265
Charlie Gerber, Communications Assistant, 202-225-3265