The President's Call to Service

President Bush created USA Freedom Corps to build on the countless acts of service, sacrifice, and generosity that followed September 11th. When he announced USA Freedom Corps in his 2002 State of the Union Address, President Bush called on all Americans to commit their lives to serve a cause greater than themselves. Over the past three years, USA Freedom Corps has helped Americans answer that call, and the American people are responding. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 64.5 million Americans volunteered in 2004 – an increase of more than 5 million since 2001.

What We Do

As a coordinating entity in the White House, USA Freedom Corps is charged with promoting a culture of service, citizenship, and responsibility in America. USA Freedom Corps promotes and expands volunteer service in America by supporting Federal service programs, serving as a resource for non-profits, recognizing volunteers, and helping to connect individuals with volunteer organizations in their communities.

• Volunteer Network – USA Freedom Corps created the largest network of volunteer opportunities online where individuals can find service opportunities that match their interests and talents in their hometowns, across the country or around the world. The USA Freedom Corps Volunteer Network is a search-friendly database that includes volunteer opportunities from organizations across the country.
   
• President’s Volunteer Service Award – The President's Volunteer Service Award was created by President Bush to recognize outstanding volunteers. The Award is available to Americans of all ages who complete a significant amount of service to their communities. To learn more, click here.
   
• Presidential Greeter Program – To thank community volunteers for making a difference in the lives of others, President Bush greets an outstanding local volunteer when Air Force One arrives at cities throughout the country.  The President has met more than 450 volunteers since March 2002.  The greeters are nominated for this honor by local volunteer organizations.  Each greeter receives a President’s Volunteer Service Award and a photograph with the President.  To view a list of people who have been recognized by the President for their volunteer efforts, please click here.
   
• USA Freedom Corps Kids Website – In 2004, USA Freedom Corps launched www.usafreedomcorpskids.gov to engage and inspire young people to perform community service.  Children can find games and ideas designed to show them how they can make a difference in their schools and neighborhoods.