Timeline

Click on an event to learn more about key moments in the modern-day voluntary service movement.

2003 President George W. Bush Expands the Service Movement

  • President George W. Bush celebrates and expands the modern-day service movement with the announcement of USA Freedom Corps during his State of the Union Address. Freedom Corps is a "Coordinating Council... working to strengthen our culture of service and help find opportunities for every American to start volunteering."

  • President George W. Bush talks about how the strength of our nation is found in those committed to compassionate service.

  • While visiting Booker T. Washington High School in Atlanta, Georgia, President George W. Bush invites students, faculty and guests to live in service to others.

  • In 2003, President George W. Bush announces the formation of the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation to recognize the important contributions Americans of all ages are making within their communities through service and civic engagement. Here he is shown awarding a volunteer the President’s Volunteer Service Award for her hundreds of hours served to the community.