Does Obama new Nation Service Plan work?

AmeriCorps has already been very successful for years and this bill just expands it so yes, I think it will work. I think people will definitely use it. I odn't know what the demographics are where you live, Lil, but I know there are lots of people who are very interested about this program where I live. The one thing people really like is the way an older person can volunteer and transfer the "pay" they get to help a grandchild pay for college. I know you don't like it at all and I respect that but I think it's a "win/win" situation no matter what party proposed it. Annie

We have tried this before, we had FDR's alphabet soup programs, we have the job corp, the peace corp, and Americacorp. Not one of them has done anything positive, so they would this new Nation Service Plan. A bunch of college trust fund babies who have to much time on their hands will sign up for this, but most who do not have a trust fund have to get a real job. One can do more for this country serving yourself than serving others. Let us be honest volunteering does not generate taxable income or spending money like a real job does. When someone go to work pushing carts at Walmart they not only are filling a need, but they are creating an income for themselves, someone else when they spend their income, and pay for some of this spending. Also they learn a valuable lesson, nothing is for free but it takes hard work. Those carts do not just magically appear when the door greater gives you one, but someone had to bring it in.

I don't know of anyone who can afford to work for free especially with the economic crises. The companies that aren't laying off are cutting hours and/or wages, so a lot of people are trying to find 2nd & 3rd jobs just to be able to keep up with their bills.

I don't know much about this program to be honest with you so before I answer your question I have a question or two. As I undersatand it this is going to apply to 18-25 year olds right? Does that mean someone over 25 can't participate and be paid? If someone over 25 can participate and be paid then yes I am there. I have been unable to find a job in over 2 years so this would be a good thing for me. I don't volunteer right now because I spend most of my time online trying to find a job and taking care of my kids.