Volunteer or else

Why do I have this sneaking suspicion that this program will not be voluntary in a few years? Remember right after the election, St. Barry of Honolulu wrote on his change.gov website about a program to **REQUIRE** every kid to volunteer before graduation. That was quickly taken down after a mini-storm of outrage, even from some on the left.

Well today we get this bit of wonderful news:

WASHINGTON – The AmeriCorps program started by President Bill Clinton will triple in size over the next eight years, and tens of thousands of other Americans will soon see new opportunities to give back to their communities.

The legislation provides for gradually increasing the size of AmeriCorps to 250,000 enrollees from its current 75,000. It's all part of a $5.7 billion national service bill President Barack Obama is scheduled to sign Tuesday

People 55 and older could also earn $1,000 education awards by getting involved in public service. Those awards can be transferred to a child, grandchild or even someone they mentored. Students from sixth grade through senior year of high school could earn a $500 education award for helping in their neighborhoods during a new summer program.

Are you effing kidding me? $5.7B in bribes for kids and old people to "volunteer"? Hey Barry, maybe you need to buy a dictionary and look up the world volunteer.

Here's my prediction on how this plays out; as part of his supposed cost cutting, this program will be the first to go. But because it is so darn good for the community, he will keep the program, just cut the funding. Which essentially will mean 250,000 citizens working for free for the government.

And just so things run more smoothly, maybe everyone should wear a uniform when performing this public service. You know, so we can easily identify the participants. Here is a nice suggestion for a uniform design. And once all the kids are enrolled in this program.