by KYW's Dr. Marciene Mattleman
If you’re 55 and over a new bill passed by Congress can make a difference in your life. It will expand opportunities for community and national service for both paid and unpaid jobs.
Several special opportunities have been created: a $1,000 Silver Scholarship for those who serve a qualified organization more than 350 hours, with the funds transferable to a child, grandchild or foster child.
As a “thank you” to older adults who are full time AmeriCorps volunteers for a year, they too, can transfer their education award of $5,350 to a child, grandchild and foster child.
Encore fellowships will connect those over 55 and older with public or private non-profit organizations in leadership and management positions, pairing an $11,000 federal award with matching funds from host organizations.
AmeriCorps volunteer positions will also be increased from 75,000 to 250,000 for those 17 and older in new service corps in health care, clean energy and fighting poverty with 10% percent of the money reserved for older adults.
Such service will enrich volunteers and society as well.
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