Floor SpeechNeutral2026-05-19

FRIENDS OF NATIONAL SERVICE

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Context

On 2026-05-19, Representative Glenn Thompson (R-PA-15) delivered a floor speech titled "FRIENDS OF NATIONAL SERVICE" in the House.

Full Text

FRIENDS OF NATIONAL SERVICE

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 85 (Tuesday, May 19, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 85 (Tuesday, May 19, 2026)] [House] [Page H3555] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] FRIENDS OF NATIONAL SERVICE (Mr. Thompson of Pennsylvania was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the power of civic engagement and the profound impact volunteering has on all of our communities. To champion the vital work of service clubs and their volunteers, I founded the Congressional Service Organization Caucus in 2019 with my friend Congressman Jimmy Panetta of California. Volunteer service is a cornerstone of a successful and strong community. The relationships we create through service often give people the courage to take the next steps in life. My journey in service began as a Scout washing local fire trucks, an experience I will always remember. Over the years, I have been proud to continue serving my community, first as an Eagle Scout, later as a volunteer firefighter and a school board member. Volunteering and dedicating my life to public service is a part of a greater calling to make a difference in people's lives, and it is a priority I will always uphold. Through my own personal experiences, I have learned that volunteering allows people to connect with others, learn new skills, build relationships, and, most importantly, brings people a sense of purpose. As a senior member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce, I know volunteering can help people build lasting careers. This is one of the many reasons why I support legislation that brings volunteer opportunities to schools, colleges, and to workforce sites. Mr. Speaker, I highlight the many notable service organizations across the United States, including Kiwanis, the Lions Club, Optimists, the Rotary Club, and AmeriCorps, among many more. These organizations share the same goal of making a positive impact on others' lives. Last week, I was honored to receive the National Service Champion Award from Voices for National Service, a coalition of organizations that prioritize service opportunities. I applaud Voices for National Service for their continued support of AmeriCorps. Programs through AmeriCorps create meaningful opportunities for people to serve, respond to local needs, and make a tangible difference in people's lives. I thank the thousands of volunteers at AmeriCorps who give back to others. Your goodwill touches the lives of real Americans and is an essential part of the fabric of our communities. I look forward to continuing to work in Congress to ensure volunteering and service programs receive the recognition that they deserve. ____________________

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FRIENDS OF NATIONAL SERVICE Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 85 (Tuesday, May 19, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 85 (Tuesday, May 19, 2026)] [House] [Page H3555] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] FRIENDS OF NATIONAL SERVICE (Mr. Thompson of Pennsylvania was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the power of civic engagement and the profound impact volunteering has on all of our communities. To champion the vital work of service clubs and their volunteers, I founded the Congressional Service Organization Caucus in 2019 with my friend Congressman Jimmy Panetta of California. Volunteer service is a cornerstone of a successful and strong community. The relationships we create through service often give people the courage to take the next steps in life. My journey in service began as a Scout washing local fire trucks, an experience I will always remember. Over the years, I have been proud to continue serving my community, first as an Eagle Scout, later as a volunteer firefighter and a school board member. Volunteering and dedicating my life to public service is a part of a greater calling to make a difference in people's lives, and it is a priority I will always uphold. Through my own personal experiences, I have learned that volunteering allows people to connect with others, learn new skills, build relationships, and, most importantly, brings people a sense of purpose. As a senior member of the House Committee on Education and Workforce, I know volunteering can help people build lasting careers. This is one of the many reasons why I support legislation that brings volunteer opportunities to schools, colleges, and to workforce sites. Mr. Speaker, I highlight the many notable service organizations across the United States, including Kiwanis, the Lions Club, Optimists, the Rotary Club, and AmeriCorps, among many more. These organizations share the same goal of making a positive impact on others' lives. Last week, I was honored to receive the National Service Champion Award from Voices for National Service, a coalition of organizations that prioritize service opportunities. I applaud Voices for National Service for their continued support of AmeriCorps. Programs through AmeriCorps create meaningful opportunities for people to serve, respond to local needs, and make a tangible difference in people's lives. I thank the thousands of volunteers at AmeriCorps who give back to others. Your goodwill touches the lives of real Americans and is an essential part of the fabric of our communities. I look forward to continuing to work in Congress to ensure volunteering and service programs receive the recognition that they deserve. ____________________