[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 92 (Friday, June 20, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1312]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     INTRODUCTION OF THE STRENGTHEN AMERICORPS PROGRAM ACT OF 2003

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                         HON. CHRIS VAN HOLLEN

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 19, 2003

  Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing the Strengthen 
AmeriCorps Program Act of 2003, to strengthen the Corporation for 
National and Community Service's AmeriCorps program. This bill will not 
only address the Corporation's recent accounting problems, but more 
importantly, it will protect and expand volunteer service opportunities 
in my State of Maryland and across our Nation. It is identical to S. 
1276, which the Senate passed yesterday. S. 1276 was introduced by 
Senator Christopher Bond of Missouri and my colleague from Maryland, 
Senator Barbara Mikulski, and I appreciate their leadership. We must 
act now to save this important program.
  The President has asked every American to volunteer in their 
communities and has made the AmeriCorps program a central vehicle in 
meeting volunteer needs. The AmeriCorps program can play an important 
and effective role in improving the lives of many Americans and 
communities it serves.
  But I have heard from many of my constituents who are concerned about 
the potential cuts to the AmeriCorps program. If we fail to act, next 
year's Maryland program will be slashed from 452 AmeriCorps members to 
52 members. Nationwide the number of AmeriCorps members will be 
radically cut as well.
  Maryland's 8th District, which I am proud to represent, has a highly 
successful AmeriCorps program, Project CHANGE. Project CHANGE was 
developed in conjunction with the President of Montgomery College, 
Charlene Nunley, the Superintendent of Schools for Montgomery County, 
Jerry Weast, and leaders from the County's non-profit, immigrant and 
business communities. If we don't act, it is likely that Montgomery 
County will lose Project CHANGE together with the great work that its 
20 AmeriCorps members are performing on behalf of our neediest students 
and families.

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