The value of AmeriCorps

The spree of economic stimulus and other federal spending that erupted since September is drawing more scrutiny about its effectiveness and long-term impact. Rightly so. If most of this doesn't work, the debt load may crush our economy.

One federal program that appears to be well worth its cost is AmeriCorps. Though not one of the biggest players in the current stimulus efforts, this program created by former President Bill Clinton in the 1990s has been demonstrating its value. Especially after the 2008 Iowa flood disaster, AmeriCorps volunteers time and again have helped our community and the state rebuild.

AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs designed to engage Americans in work that improves communities in education, public safety, health and the environment. It attracts mostly post-high school youths who receive modest stipends for living expenses and education grants for serving a few months up to a year.

The number of AmeriCorps volunteers in Iowa was about 300 in 2005 but has jumped to 1,400, much of it in response to flood needs. In our area, the non-profit Community Corrections Improvement Association oversees AmeriCorps volunteers. There are five distinct groups working here, providing labor and leadership.

They've put their helping hands into lots of things, among them:

l Mucking and cleaning flooded buildings.

l Conducting a survey to update the status of flooded homes, an assist for city officials.

l Boosting Habitat for Humanity's efforts to build 20 new homes in Cedar Rapids this year for flood victims and other families.

l Organizing a Green Iowa AmeriCorps, first in the nation, that weatherizes homes, recycles materials and creates community gardens.

“These are high-quality young people who work hard. They've done a tremendous job,” Gary Hinzman, director of Iowa's 6th Judicial District, told us. We've heard similar comments from neighbors and city officials.

Hinzman sees potential to recruit permanent residents from visiting

AmeriCorps ranks. “They're the type who could be our future leaders,” he said.

Perhaps, especially if our community can rebound and grow the number and variety of quality jobs that attract such dedicated young people.

Meanwhile, it's great to have them here. And if the full Congress follows the a Senate committee's lead last week of increasing funding for the nation's community service programs, AmeriCorps can continue to expand its good work.