Recently enacted bill enhances volunteerism | delmarvanow.com | The Daily Times

The recently enacted Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act is in keeping with the spirit of our nation by making it easier for Americans to volunteer for national service, a hallmark of our country. This legislation was named in honor of Sen. Ted Kennedy. It had strong bipartisan support in Congress because it helps foster our sense of community and shared responsibility. The Serve America Act dramatically increases funding for AmeriCorps and other volunteer programs, including those for seniors and veterans. It also establishes a goal of expanding from 75,000 government-supported volunteers to 250,000. It will increase education funding and establish a summer service program for students, paying $500 (to be applied to college costs) to middle- and high-school students who participate....

The Clean Energy Service Corps will help Americans weatherize their homes and lower energy bills and the Veterans Corps volunteers will help veterans readjust to civilian life and pursue educational and job opportunities.

I particularly want to draw attention to the Healthy Futures Corps, a program I strongly support after the tragic death of 12-year-old Deamonte Driver of Prince George's County from an abscessed tooth.