Timeline

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

2009 President Obama Signs the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act

  • President Obama signs the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, which authorizes the greatest expansion of national service in America since the Great Depression.

  • President Obama's administration leads the way in establishing a new era of voluntary action by engaging Americans in service.

  • President Barack Obama and Senator Ted Kennedy participate in a national service event at The SEED School of Washington, D.C., where the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act was signed April 21, 2009. The legislation triples the size of AmeriCorps and provides new service opportunities for millions of Americans at all stages of their lives.

  • President Obama and Senator Kennedy share a laugh as President Obama prepares to speak about the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act. Senator Kennedy was a key advocate in the passage of the expansive service legislation.