WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced a resolution, alongside co-chairs of the Congressional National Service Caucus Representatives Doris Matsui (D-CA) and Garret Graves (R-LA), to designate the second Friday in June as National Service and Conservation Corps Day. Senators Heinrich (D-NM) and Cassidy (R-LA) have introduced a bipartisan companion bill in the Senate.

"Climate change is an existential threat to our country that demands contributions from ordinary people to tackle it, and these organizations provide the avenue to do just that," said Houlahan. "These organizations are near and dear to my heart; one of the most worthwhile experiences in my career was serving as a teacher in Philadelphia through the Teach for America program as part of AmeriCorps. That experience was crucial to me, as it is for so many others, in leading a career and life of service. National service programs play a pivotal role in making our country a better place each and every day, and this resolution will further prioritize these initiatives. I am proud to lead this resolution with Representatives Fitzpatrick, Matsui, and Graves to honor the tremendous work of those who dedicate their time to service, and also promote these invaluable programs to continue."

“Few calls in life are more meaningful than serving our community and nation. Our National Service and Conservation Corps organizations work to nurture our next generation of young leaders and agents of change, engage our veterans, and enhance our public lands while weaving a fabric of unity and stewardship that strengthens our community and future here in PA-1 and nationwide,” said Fitzpatrick.  “I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan initiative to celebrate National Service and Conservation Corps Day and ensure we continue to acknowledge and support their achievements and efforts and inspire others to join their noble endeavors.”

“The spirit of service and dedication to our fellow Americans is deeply rooted in our national identity,” said Matsui. “National service programs and Conservation Corps empower everyday Americans to create a robust network of support and drive meaningful change at scale. As co-chair of the Congressional National Service Caucus, I have long fought to expand service opportunities and ensure they get the resources that they need. This resolution celebrates the transformative impact of service programs and reaffirms our commitment to this invaluable work.”

“National Service and Conservation Corps Day highlights the commitment of AmeriCorps members to serving and improving our communities,” said Graves. “Corpsmembers are the backbone of many community projects, where they provide important services and strengthen our society through their dedication to civic responsibility. As co-chair of the National Service Caucus, I am proud to work with Representatives Houlahan, Matsui, and Fitzpatrick on this resolution that further promotes local engagement to create lasting positive change in our communities.”

Houlahan served as a chemistry teacher at Simon Gratz High School in North Philadelphia as part of Teacher for America. She also sent a letter to Speaker Johnson earlier this year to prevent devastating funding cuts to AmeriCorps.

“Corps are a win-win-win. They help our community and park leaders address critical projects, they provide young stewards with training and work experience, and we all benefit from the work Corps do to improve parks and communities. I give thanks to Representatives Houlahan, Fitzpatrick, Graves, and Matsui for joining us in celebrating Corps,” said Mary Ellen Sprenkel, President and CEO of The Corps Network. “Corps have a history dating back more than 90 years. These programs offer a tested and adaptable model for training people and tackling challenges. We are grateful that Corps are increasingly seen as a valuable tool for workforce development and addressing conservation and infrastructure needs. We look forward to continue working with our partners in government to engage Corps in building a stronger America.”

Houlahan is an Air Force veteran, an engineer, a serial entrepreneur, an educator, and a nonprofit leader. She represents Pennsylvania’s 6th Congressional District, which encompasses Chester County and southern Berks County. She serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. She is the recipient of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Abraham Lincoln Leadership for America Award which “recognizes members who demonstrate the bipartisan leadership and constructive governing necessary to move our country forward” and the Congressional Management Foundation’s 2022 Democracy Award for best Constituent Services in Congress.

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