What are alternatives in serving the United States

What are alternatives in serving the United States?

The military is set up for defending our country,

our freedoms, and the American way of life,

although often by force.

Currently, all United States male citizens must register with Selective Service within 30 days of their 18^th birthday.

If someone does not register, it is a felony, and the person is subject to a fine up to $250,000 and 5 years in jail.

A draft to call up people for service in the military can be authorized by the United States Congress. To read more about a draft, see the Christian Science Monitor write up at www.csmonitor.com/explainers/Draft.html.

The military may recruit heavily in middle and high schools. If you are interested in providing alternatives, check out the Coalition Against Militarism in our Schools.

www.MilitaryFreeSchools.org

Peace Corps volunteers serve in 72 countries in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Central and South America, Europe, and the Middle East. Collaborating with local community members, Volunteers work in areas like education, youth outreach and community development, the environment, and information technology.

www.PeaceCorps.gov

AmeriCorps and VISTA are a network of local, state, and national service programs that connects more than 70,000 Americans each year in intensive service to meet our country’s critical needs in education, public safety, health, and the environment.

www.AmeriCorps.org

Look at Nonmilitary Options for Youth at

www.ProgressiveAustin.org/nmofy/drupal.

Check out and consider working for the

American Friends Service Committee

www.afsc.org/volunteering

Corporation for National and Community Service

www.LearnAndServe.org

Friends Committee on National Legislation

www.FCNL.org

National Service Learning

www.NationalService.org or