The creation of an informed and active citizenry has always been a primary goal of America's schools. Given the challenges we face as a Nation, educating our young people to be knowledgeable, skillful, and engaged citizens of a free society has never been more important. By serving something greater than themselves America's young people can help meet vital community needs while learning to become responsible and engaged citizens in our democratic society.

Educators in America's K-12 schools and in its colleges and universities have long encouraged students to participate in volunteer service in many forms. They have supported individual volunteer activities, service projects organized by student groups and faculty members, and formal service projects that link to academic lessons – the practice known as service-learning.

Initiatives

In addition to partnering with national service programs, operating the USA Freedom Corps for Kids website, and honoring students with the President's Volunteer Service Award, USA Freedom Corps seeks to engage educators and students in several other priority areas, including:

• American History, Civics & Service
• Helping America's Youth
• President's Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll
• Students in Service to America
• Universities Rebuilding America Partnership

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Learn and Serve America

The Learn and Serve America program at the Corporation for National and Community Service supports service-learning activities in thousands of K-12 schools and on college and university campuses around the country through grants and other resources, including the National Service Learning Clearinghouse.

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Visit the National Service Learning Clearinghouse

USA Freedom Corps for Kids

In 2004, USA Freedom Corps launched www.usafreedomcorpskids.gov to engage and inspire young people to perform community service. Children can find games and ideas designed to show them how they can make a difference in their schools and neighborhoods.

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Honoring Students

In order to encourage and recognize outstanding volunteer service and inspire others to volunteer, the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation created the President’s Volunteer Service Award. These Awards will honor those Americans who have made serving a central part of their lives and show that when you help your neighbor, you are helping your nation.

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