On Friday, May 8, The Baltimore Sun published a letter from GHCC Executive Director Karen Stokes in support of the recently passed Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act. The letter responded to an editorial criticizing the program, entitled "Multiplying the Boondoggle of AmeriCorps."
Stokes' letter is posted below:
In his recent Op-Ed criticizing the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act ("AmeriCorps boondoggle grows, April 28), James Bovard missed the boat on the essence of AmeriCorps and its engagement of professional volunteers to implement sustainable social change in America.
By allocating increased funds to AmeriCorps, the federal government places resources in the hands of organizations with a proven aptitude for tackling some of our toughest problems. For years, the Greater Homewood Community Corporation (GHCC) has provided AmeriCorps volunteers with meaningful experiences that make a lasting difference in Baltimore. More than a dozen members join our staff every year.
Last year, AmeriCorps volunteers at GHCC generated more than $1.5 million dollars in resources into Baltimore neighborhoods. Over the past decade, our members have facilitated free vision screenings, dental cleanings, winter coat drives, Thanksgiving and Christmas basket drives, mentoring programs, after-school programs, and countless other services that so many of us take for granted.
Many talented individuals are eager to serve their country and community. We would be remiss not to put these people to work here at home, where they have unlimited potential to effect positive change in our communities.
To suggest that AmeriCorps members merely busy themselves as they are paid with government dollars on false pretenses belittles the enormous contribution these individuals make to our communities.
