The Value of Learn and Serve America (LSA)

LSA is the most widely-serving and cost-effective program of the Corporation for National and Community Service. In 2006, LSA engaged more than 1.4 million young people in 27 million hours of service-learning in which students work in the community as part of their academic experience. At an average cost of only $26 per participant, LSA leverages private and community resources to yield a $4-to-$1 return on investment in services to the community.

Demand for LSA Funding

In the 2006 LSA grant cycle, with only $9.1 million available for higher education, 292 applicants requested $67.3 million. Only 27 proposals, or 9.3%, were funded.

Demand for LSA funds is strong because of the tremendous benefits of service-learning for students and communities. Research has shown that high-quality service-learning supported by LSA can improve grades, increase attendance in school, and develop students’ sense of personal and social responsibility. Service-learning also yields billions of dollars in value to communities in need.

A Funding Crisis

The Administration has cut LSA funding each year since 2005 from its traditional level of $43 million in Fiscal Year 2005, to $37.1 in Fiscal Year 2006, $34 in Fiscal Year 2007, and now $32.1 million in Fiscal Year 2008. In addition, the current budget proposes that $500,000 for LSA promotional activities come from higher education service-learning programming.

What Congress Can Do

• Restore Learn and Serve America funding to its traditional $43 million level.
• $500,000 slated for LSA promotional activities should not come out of program funds for higher education as proposed in the FY08 budget request.

LSA is a low-cost, high-value way to leverage university and community organizations’ resources, promote service-learning, improve academic outcomes and provide essential services such as tutoring in math and reading, health care, homelessness, and senior care.

Download Why Restore Learn and Serve America Funding for Fiscal Year 2008? in Word format 136KB.

Act Now to Restore Learn and Serve America Funding!.