America has always been strongest when we rise together in service—when we build, teach, innovate, and defend side by side. It’s time to renew that spirit for the 21st century.
We propose a New National Service Initiative—a bold reimagining of how young Americans can give back, gain skills, and grow into the leaders of tomorrow. For too long, we’ve asked too little of our youth, while offering too few opportunities. That must change.
National Service Pathways
Upon graduating high school or college, every young American should have access to programs that offer real skills, real wages, and real purpose.
AmeriCorps: Rebuilt and Respected
AmeriCorps should be expanded tenfold—with better pay, stronger benefits, and new tracks for local government, public health, climate resiliency, disaster relief, and community education. Participants should be seen as nation-builders.Civic Bootcamps
Summer-length intensives in areas like policy, economics, civics, journalism, and community organizing—training the next generation of public servants and changemakers. These programs can be run in partnership with state governments, universities, and nonprofit coalitions.TechForce Service Corps
A civilian “bootcamp” for cybersecurity, data infrastructure, AI governance, and digital literacy. Participants learn valuable technical skills while helping local and federal agencies modernize systems, defend against digital threats, and bridge the digital divide.Manufacturing and Trades Corps
A hands-on, service-based training pipeline for advanced manufacturing, green energy, logistics, and skilled trades. Participants contribute to building housing, critical infrastructure, and clean energy systems—earning certifications and good wages.Climate Corps
Not just a feel-good idea—a real, structured force to restore ecosystems, build resilient infrastructure, and respond to wildfires, droughts, floods, and hurricanes. These Americans will be trained to work alongside FEMA, the military, and local governments.Health and Wellness Corps
Train young people to assist in mental health clinics, veterans services, elder care, early childhood development, and public health preparedness. This can help fill vital gaps in our healthcare system, especially in rural and underserved communities.
Yes, Military Service Too
Military service remains a proud and honorable path—and those who choose it deserve our highest respect. But national service doesn’t begin or end with the battlefield. We must broaden our definition of service, and offer just as much honor to those who heal, teach, repair, code, and lead.
All of these pathways can be run with military precision and discipline—many even under the Department of Defense or Homeland Security—but without requiring enlistment. These programs can provide an entry point for those considering military service, or a civilian option for those with different callings.
What It Means to Serve
National Service Participants Should Receive:
A living wage or stipend, adjusted for regional cost of living
Comprehensive health coverage, including mental health care
Paid sick and personal leave, especially for long-term commitments
Retirement contributions via a portable savings plan or public system
Safe and protected work environments, with clear reporting protocols
Unemployment support and career transition services after service ends
The right to organize and advocate for better working conditions
Fair employment classification, avoiding “volunteer” loopholes
Access to affordable childcare or dependent care support
Education and job training benefits, such as tuition assistance or loan forgiveness
Portability of benefits across sectors and employment paths
This isn’t just about building careers. It’s about building a stronger nation—by giving young people shared experiences, meaningful work, and a sense of belonging. It’s about giving back.
We believe every young American deserves the opportunity to serve something bigger than themselves—and we believe this service will strengthen democracy, deepen civic trust, and help our country heal.