Dear RSVP Volunteers,
As you read this, our Federal Legislators are grappling with some of the largest budget deficits our great country has ever seen. They, actually WE, are faced with difficult and likely some painful decisions. We know we will all have to make sacrifices. And we know that there are likely areas that could be more efficient and financially prudent.
What we hope is that as these difficult choices are made, they are made based on; what is best for our communities, what most effectively leverages all of our available resources, and long range visions, rather than short term fixes. One area that we see evidenced daily as a cost efficient SOLUTION to meeting pressing community needs, is the power of volunteers. YOU are our countries greatest resource. And we are also painfully aware that volunteers, in the vast majority of cases, need a quality infrastructure and support system in order to maximize their impact. Ask anyone who has ever had a frustrating volunteer experience for proof of this.
The Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) is the Federal Agency that sponsors National Service programs including Americorps, RSVP, Senior Companions, Foster Grandparents, Learn and Serve and Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA). These programs mobilize thousands of volunteers across every state, every day. They provide the infrastructure to assure that these volunteers are able to serve in ways that address the greatest challenges, in cost effective and solution oriented ways. CNCS is one of the programs that was considered for complete defunding. Hopefully as you read this, CNCS is recognized and funded as a cost effective solution with a high return on investment.
Regardless of where the budget process is at, you can call or email your congressional representatives and legislators to let them know about the difference YOU make in your community as a volunteer. Tell them that our schools, food shelves, parks, libraries, aging citizens, veterans, virtually all members of our communities, are served by and benefit from the work of dedicated National Service Volunteers. Thank them for their support and service.
Keep in mind that the current Continuing Resolution ends April 8th:
Please call, fax, or write a letter to your representative and Senators Klobuchar and Franken outlining the following:
© You have been an RSVP volunteer at ______ (volunteer site) for how long________ and you volunteer _____hours per week.
© How does the community benefit from your volunteer service and the organization you volunteer with? (Include a story that illustrates the impact of your volunteer work on the community.)
© How do you personally benefit from participating in the RSVP program with your volunteer site?
© Ask them to save The Corporation for National and Community Service and its programs like RSVP.
Our Senators are: Al Franken 202-224-5641 and Amy Klobuchar 202-224-3244. Prefer email? Their websites have links for emailing them directly.
Your Representatives: Type in your zip code to find your local representative:
www.Votesmart.org
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