Washington D.C. — The Conference Report on the fiscal 2004 Omnibus Appropriations bill, filed yesterday in the House of Representatives, contains a significant funding increase for AmeriCorps and the Corporation for National and Community Service.

According to the Senate Appropriations Committee, the VA-HUD-Independent Agencies section of the Omnibus Conference Report includes $444 million for AmeriCorps, a $170 million increase over the fiscal year 2003 enacted level and $10 million above the President's budget request. Overall, the VA-HUD-Independent Agencies section of the Omnibus Conference Report provides $584 million for the Corporation, almost $182 million more than the fiscal year 2003 enacted level. Both the funding level and funding increase amounts are the highest in the Corporation's history. Other highlights include $43 million for Learn and Serve America, $25 million for AmeriCorps*NCCC, $10 million for Points of Light, and $5 million for America's Promise. Details on funding for Senior Corps and AmeriCorps*VISTA, funded under the Labor-HHS-Education section of the Omnibus bill, are not yet available.

Following is a statement by Stephen Goldsmith, Chairman of the Corporation's Board of Directors, on the Conference Report:

"The conference report, if enacted, would result in a significant increase for AmeriCorps that would allow more Americans than ever to serve their communities through the program. We're pleased that Congress has taken this step toward fully funding the President's AmeriCorps budget, and for reaffirming the value of national and community service. The White House has worked diligently to expand and improve national service. Congress has indicated that it wants the Corporation to be more effective and accountable and to work with the field to achieve reforms. With a new leadership team and an aggressive management agenda, the Corporation is heeding Congress's call and is committed to ensuring that this investment is used wisely and well."

The Corporation for National and Community Service provides opportunities for Americans of all ages and backgrounds to serve their communities and country through three programs: Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, and Learn and Serve America. Working with national and community nonprofits, faith-based groups, schools, and local agencies, the Corporation engages Americans in meeting critical needs in education, the environment, public safety, homeland security, and other areas. The Corporation and its programs are a key part of USA Freedom Corps, a White House initiative to foster a culture of citizenship, service and responsibility, and to help all Americans answer the President's Call to Service.

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