DE: U.S. Sen. Chris Coons inducted into the National Service Hall of Fame

DELAWARE — U.S. Senator Chris Coons received high honors, as he was officially inducted into the the National Service Hall of Fame Wednesday afternoon.

The democratic senator representing the first state was observed for his commitment to strengthening AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors. According to Voices for National Service President, Ann Maura Connolly, Sen. Coons has championed national service for over 20 years. This is Voices for National Service’s highest honor.

Some examples being securing $1 billion for AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors in the American Rescue Plan.  She says he also has been the leading force in growing the program to 250,000 members annually.

The senator was present at the virtual event to accept his award and says AmeriCorps and national service has been a big part of his life for decades he hopes that in some small way he can pay back the enormous gift the national service has given to him.  Sen. Coons adds in part quote “I am excited about the very real prospect, that when we’re done with our work this year, that we will be a big step closer to a nation, where people of all ages will look to each other and say, where did you serve.”

The senator also mentioned the “Cultivating Opportunity and Response to the Pandemic through Service” or CORPS Act, which would provide a total of 600,000 service opportunities nationwide over the next three years to unemployed youth and others looking to assist their communities. He adds that he is committed to making this bill a reality.