National AmeriCorps Swearing-In Day

Proclamation
By the Governor of Alabama

WHEREAS, every day in communities across America, AmeriCorps members are making a powerful impact on the most critical issues facing our nation; and

WHEREAS, on October 16, 2015, the nation will mark the 21th anniversary of AmeriCorps with a simultaneous, nationwide swearing-in of a new class of AmeriCorps members and recognition events saluting AmeriCorps members and alums for their powerful impact; and

WHEREAS, since 1994, more than 6,700 of Alabama residents have served more than 10 million hours and have qualified for Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards totaling more than $19,990,000; and

WHEREAS, AmeriCorps members address the most pressing challenges facing our nation, from educating students for jobs of the 21st century and supporting veterans and military families to providing health services and helping communities recover from natural disasters; and

WHEREAS, national service expands economic opportunity by creating more sustainable, resilient communities and providing experience, career skills, and college scholarships for those who serve; and

WHEREAS, more than 490 AmeriCorps members of all ages and backgrounds serve in Alabama, providing vital support to our people and improving the quality of life in our state; and

WHEREAS, AmeriCorps members serve in more than 150 service locations in Alabama, bolstering the civic, neighborhood, and faith-based organizations that are so vital to our economic and social well-being; and

WHEREAS, AmeriCorps members demonstrate commitment, dedication, and patriotism by making an intensive commitment to service, and after their terms of service remain engaged in our communities as volunteers, public servants, and civic leaders in disproportionately high levels:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim October 16, 2015, as

National AmeriCorps Swearing-In Day

in the State of Alabama and encourage residents to recognize the positive impact of AmeriCorps in our state; thank those who serve; and to find ways to give back to their communities.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 9th day of October 2015.

Robert Bentley
Governor