January 12, 2010
Building Bridges Through American Volunteers
Policy Brief from the Brookings Institution by David L. Caprara, John Bridgeland and Harris Wofford, outlining a Global Service Agenda
Abstract:
As policy-makers search for ways to share the best of America with the world, they should start with our international volunteers, who embody this country’s spirit of generosity, resourcefulness and hope. With the support of Congress and the Bush Administration, volunteers can become the first face of America to communities in many nations, while advancing concrete initiatives that lift up the lives of the poor throughout the world.
To maximize the potential of international volunteering, we propose that Congress establish a program of Global Service Fellowships to support American volunteers- nominated by congressional members - serving abroad with qualifying nongovernmental organizations, faith-based groups, and universities that are committed to advancing peace and development. Initial funding of $50 million would support approximately 10,000 fellowships annually averaging $5,000 each to pay for volunteers’ travel, program costs, and minimal living expense. In addition, Congress and the White House should work together to double the Peace Corps, authorize and provide support to Volunteers for Prosperity, and increase support of other efforts inside and outside government to enable global service and assess its impact. These efforts will empower a growing coalition of international volunteering organizations to help reach the goal of 100,000 Americans serving in developing countries each year.
