Our communities are struggling and the demand for services is expanding exponentially. Nonprofit organizations need human capital to help them provide critical assistance to citizens in need.

Americans are ready to serve, and service programs are reporting a huge influx of applications, double or triple the number received one year ago.

National service is a tangible and meaningful way for citizens to share in the responsibility of seeing us through these challenging times.

Yet, due to budget constraints, President Obama's request did not cover everything included in the Serve America Act. It recommends manageable growth in a few focus areas, and it is important that Congress fully fund the $1.149B request.

(Photo by sundaykofax)