Graduate Research Papers

Availability

Open Access Graduate Research Paper

Abstract

The pursuit of national service has been significant in American society. This study focused on the importance and relevance of national service as a reflection of the volunteer spirit American culture. The study will provide a brief review of national service programs in the last century highlighting major programs developed on the national and international level.

The concept of national service has long intrigued the American public and political system. Every administration since Roosevelt has entertained or enacted some form of national service but not without political dissension. The root cause of this dissension is often the lack of understanding of what national service constitutes. The study offers an overview and definition of the concept of national service. This will serve as a starting point for the historical review of America's attempt at national service. The review of the programs in the 20th century are arranged in chronological order to provide an historical perspective.

The early years of the century set the stage for the bold national service programs that are highlighted in this study. The expansionist ideals during this time gave rise to initiatives that were the precursors of the Peace Corps. The Roosevelt years show the greatest impact of national service projects on the American economy and illustrated the tremendous educational benefits offered by the programs. The decades of the 1960s and 1970s mobilized Americans, both old and young, to serve. No review of programs of national service can discount the call to service during the administrations of Presidents Kennedy and Johnson. This period led to the succeeding years of reorganization and rededication to national service, concluding with the implementation of President Clinton's AmeriCorps.

The review of America's attempt at national service leads to the conclusion that America's vision for a better world through service is a consistent and important fabric of American society. Our society has been impacted, changed, and benefited from American's commitment to service. With an historical perspective of national service programs, understanding their mission, or lack there of, and with the realization that the nation has a long tradition of voluntary service; the next century holds great promise for meeting the challenges of the 21st century. One of America's greatest resources is willingness of people to serve. In the words of Margaret Mead National service is validated, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it is the only thing."

Year of Submission

1997

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

School of Health, Physical Education, and Leisure Services

First Advisor

Christopher Edginton

Comments

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Date Original

1997

Object Description

1 PDF file (90 pages)

Language

en

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