Christopher Shays: “as a fiscal conservative, I believe national service is one of the most productive and cost-effective investments our…”

“as a fiscal conservative, I believe national service is one of the most productive and cost-effective investments our government can make. Through service, Americans of all ages gain a sense of commitment to their community and their country, which will prove invaluable for the rest of their lives. National service benefits both the recipient and the giver. Volunteers not only address an immediate need, they lead and teach through example, and through that example, they learn the value of serving and helping others. We need to harness the energy and commitment of those anxious to contribute to their country, not deny them the opportunity to serve. As an eighth grader, I vividly remember President John Kennedy's call to service when he created the Peace Corps in 1961. He said, ``Life in the Peace Corps will not be easy, but if the life is not easy, it will be rich and satisfying.'' As a former Peace Corps volunteer, and I want to emphasize I had the name ``volunteer,'' I can attest to the positive effect the Peace Corps has on the lives of people around the world. Peace Corps volunteers are not high-paid consultants. Just like AmeriCorps volunteers, they are hands-on workers in the trenches who live in the communities they serve. Just like the Peace Corps, the challenges are great for those working in domestic service programs, but the rewards are immeasurable.”