ServeNext.org Overview
Mission
The mission of ServeNext.org is to use the power of grassroots action to advance volunteerism, service, and AmeriCorps as strategies to tackle our most pressing social challenges and strengthen our democracy.
Why Service?
National and community service organizations play a critical role in addressing many of our nation’s unmet needs. They improve our schools, help communities rebuild after natural disasters, improve the environment, expand access to public health, empower youth to be leaders, support the economic and workforce development of disadvantaged individuals, and more.
While our nation’s challenges are immense, so is the number of people who want to help. Service not only provides a cost-effective way to address local needs, but is also a pathway to work for the individuals who serve, giving them skills needed to enter the workforce.
Service needs to be a priority for our country and our elected leaders.
Why ServeNext.org?
The political climate is unpredictable, and issues can be pushed aside if supporters are not proactive. While the service field is successfully educating and advocating to members of Congress in Washington, there is a pressing need to do the same thing at the local level to in order to build broader and more consistent support.
There are millions of people who are passionate about service and understand its impact in local communities, but most are not engaged as advocates. ServeNext harnesses their passion into grassroots action.
Our Approach
ServeNext selects, trains, and supports local leaders around the country to unite, manage, and mobilize permanent grassroots Networks of service supporters and stakeholders. Network members include recipients of service, AmeriCorps alumni, program staff, educators who use service-learning, Senior Corps participants – anyone passionate about service.
Our Networks engage members of Congress, key leaders, media, and the general public to educate them about the value of service and make the case for their support.
Our Focus
Currently, ServeNext’s grassroots work is focused on supporting programs that fall under the Corporation for National and Community Service, which includes the Serve America Act. CNCS is a federal agency and the national leader in supporting service. It oversees AmeriCorps, VISTA, NCCC, Learn & Serve America, Senior Corps, Social Innovation Fund, and more.
Please note: ServeNext is an independent organization and does not coordinate with, or receive support from, CNCS.