how can participating with different national service orgs help with education and job opportunities?

Question

other than the question above:


What are some good, solid, backed-up reasons to support and participate in national services (PeaceCorps, AmeriCorps, SeniorCorps)?

on the other side of the argument...
Why should someone NOT participate?
it has to be backed up, not something like "you can be doing better things, etc."


we have to be prepared for both sides because we wont know if were pro or con until the day of the debate

Answer 1

These national organizations offer a great opportunity for all participants. I've worked with a couple of different teams of AmeriCorps members. They have utilized their education and talents to provide a specific services to expand our volunteer programs, and benefit our community in many different ways. They have provided community enrichment programs, team building volunteer opportunities, volunteer management, service learning, and various other programs. Some of the Peace Corps members have provided volunteer program services for the community as well.

Based upon the skills and hands on training that these organizations have provided the members of these programs, the members have had a better chance at some of the job opportunities within these organizations. In fact, we hired one of our past AmeriCorps members for a position within our organzation.

The on-the-job training in all these organization is an invaluable experience. You can see the inner workings of non-profit agencies and work directly on projects where you can truly make a difference.

The one down side that I can see is the time commitment. AmeriCorps is typically a one year commitment, and the Peace Corps is a similar requirement, sometimes longer. In addition, these positions might provide small living stipends, but that is not necessarily significant enough depending on your local assignment.

Good luck with your debate.

Answer 2

Do unto others as you wish them to do unto you