The AmeriCorps Pledge

AmeriCorps (officially known as the Corporation for National and Community Service) is an independent federal agency for national service and volunteering established in 1993 after Congress passed the National and Community Service Act of 1990, which was signed into law by then President George H.W. Bush.  AmeriCorps members participate in a variety of service activities, including after-school tutoring or homebuilding. They complete 1,700 hours of community service over an eleven month term.  After successfully completing their term of service, AmeriCorps may be eligible for an education award that may be used to pay for college or to pay-off existing student loans.  Despite its long history and track record of success under several U.S. Presidents from both political parties, roughly 75% of the agency's employees were placed on administrative leave last month by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

I have to be 100% honest that I didn't know too much about the AmeriCorps program itself.  I listened to a talk radio show last week that discussed the history of the program.  What impressed me was the oath of service that each AmeriCorps member takes at the beginning of their term:

I will get things done for America – to make our people safer, smarter, and healthier.

I will bring Americans together to strengthen our communities.
Faced with apathy, I will take action.
Faced with conflict, I will seek common ground.
Faced with adversity, I will persevere.
I will carry this commitment with me this year and beyond.
I am an AmeriCorps member, and I will get things done.

Wouldn't it be nice if everyone in government had to pledge to "get things done for America"?  Wouldn't it be nice if everyone in government would work together to strengthen our communities?  Wouldn't it be nice if everyone in government worked to find common ground whenever they were faced with conflict?

The AmeriCorps pledge represents a commitment to service, as well as a commitment to perseverance.  It's also a commitment that calls its members to action (see my recent post, "Have a bias towards action...").  Service.  Commitment.  Dedication.  Action.  Perseverance.  Resilience.  These are the ideals and aspirations of each and every AmeriCorps member.  They are the ideals and aspirations for all leaders everywhere.