Patrick creates volunteer corps

November 27, 2007 12:03 PM Email| Comments (0)| Text size – +

(Pat Greenhouse/Globe Staff/file)

By Globe Staff

Governor Deval Patrick today signed a bill establishing a $3 million state-run volunteer program that has been one of the early priorities of his administration.

The Commonwealth Corps has a goal of enlisting 250 volunteers, a number the administration hopes will grow to 1,000 members over the next five years. Members will dedicate at least one year of service, which will include teaching in after-school programs, mentoring underprivileged youth, helping the elderly, and cleaning up parks and beaches,

“Massachusetts has a strong history of community service, volunteerism, and civic action and I am proud that the Commonwealth Corps will become a new chapter in that history,” Patrick said in a statement. “Through volunteerism, citizens have the ability to alter lives and communities while also experiencing the pride that comes with such service. I am excited about this new opportunity and look forward to the work ahead.”

Members of the Commonwealth Corps must be at least 18 years and will include mid-career workers and retirees.Volunteers will serve in a part-time or full-time capacity.

"Governor Patrick made volunteerism a priority as he took office and he should be congratulated for the effort put forth to create the Commonwealth Corps," House Speaker Salvatore F. DiMasi said in a statement released by the governor’s office. "This new law will help foster the true spirit of volunteerism and civic engagement that are hallmarks of our Commonwealth."

The program also includes a student-based component that will be administered through five yet-to-be-named public colleges or universities. Participating students will combine volunteerism with their area of study.

"Commonwealth Corps acknowledges and promotes the benefits of volunteerism," Senate President Therese Murray said in a statement released by the governor’s office. "It creates an active and renewable resource to help communities in need while teaching participants the valuable lesson of civic responsibility."