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FOIA Number: 2013-0661-F (2)
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the William J. Clinton
Presidential Library Staff.
Collection/Record Group:
Clinton Presidential Records
Subgroup/Office of Origin:
National Service
Series/Staff Member:
Rick Allen
Subseries:
OA/ID Number:
2149
FolderID:
Folder Title:
Public Allies
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
S
66
2
2
2
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TTTLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
001. note
Dwight to Eli Segal; re: Public Allies and Today's "Urban Barn-
01/18/1993
Personal Misfile
Raising" (1 page)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
National Service
Rick Allen
OA/Box Number: 2149
FOLDER TITLE:
Public Allies
2013-0661-F
ip4936
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act . 15 U.S.C. 552(b)]
PI National Security Classified Information |(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information |(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute |(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency |(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA|
financial information |(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information |(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy |(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRAJ
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
of gift.
financial institutions l(b)(8) of the FOIA}
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
PRESIDENT CLINTON'S CALL TO NATIONAL SERVICE
PUBLIC ALLIES' PERSPECTIVE
America today is filled with a new sense of hope. To bring our
country together and solve the pressing problems of our
communities, and to make higher education affordable to all
Americans, President-elect Clinton has proposed the creation of a
National Service Trust. Under this program, young people would
serve their country and their communities for one or two years, in
exchange for a stipend during their time of service and educational
or (other options) vouchers at the completion of service.
PUBLIC ALLIES' Recommendations for National Service
PUBLIC ALLIES trains diverse young people as leaders through an
innovative year-long program. These young people, known as "Public
Allies", are placed in one-year full-time positions at a range of
non-profit organizations and government agencies, work on community
problems as a team outside of their individual jobs, and also
receive leadership training.
From our experience helping young people work in their communities,
PUBLIC ALLIES recommends that the national service program should:
encourage Americans to come home again. National service
should rebuild America's sense of community by providing young
people with opportunities to serve in their home communities.
create community. There is a sense in America that we cannot
survive as a nation of rugged individuals, but that we have to
provide young people with communities outside of their schools
and homes. Whether in group programs or in individual programs
with an intensive team component, young people from diverse
backgrounds should have the opportunity to be part of a
community that supports them, and to engage in efforts larger
than themselves.
listen to local communities. In order to succeed, national
service must be a part of, not an imposition on, our
communities. Local individuals and groups must take part in
designing and implementing service programs in order to build
long-term support and strengthen capacity for problem-solving
in communities.
give young people a voice. Young people's continuing
participation in planning the National Service program is
vital to ensure that those who President Clinton asks to serve
will answer his call.
decentralize, not centralize. Provide a slim, non-
bureaucratic entity to allocate resources to a diverse and
innovative range of intermediary organizations which can more
accurately assess, and more efficiently meet, community needs.
invest in the individual. Focus resources on organizations
which have low overheads, so that young people and communities
receive the maximum benefits.
maximize choice. A flexible program offering a broad range
of opportunities will encourage the participation of young
people from different backgrounds and address the varied needs
of specific communities.
reward innovation and results. Young people should apply for
vouchers to participate in the National Service Trust.
Certified organizations would then compete for "vouchered"
young people to participate in programs which meet the needs
of both young people and communities. Inviting organizations
to compete for "vouchered" participants will encourage
competition and innovation, and reward successful efforts.
learn from experience. Involving the non-profit sector will
engage individuals and organizations who have led our country
in the design and implementation of social services.
encourage entrepreneurship. Encourage young people to start
their own public service projects. Funding and team-based
training for such entrepreneurial projects could be managed
through an organization like PUBLIC ALLIES.
What is PUBLIC ALLIES?
The leadership needed to solve America's problems already exists in
our communities. PUBLIC ALLIES is a unique privately funded non-
profit organization which connects young leaders from diverse
communities with existing non-profit organizations and government
agencies which address pressing issues in our communities and our
country.
PUBLIC ALLIES is a multi-cultural non-profit organization designed
to help young people, in all their diversity, take leadership in
improving our neighborhoods and our nation through a long-term
commitment to public life. Our Apprenticeship Program is one of
many innovative models for President-elect Clinton's national
service initiative.
"Public Allies":
work together in a team to address one issue that impacts
their community.
serve for a year in a full-time placement at a community-
based or national non-profit organization, community
development corporation, or government agency.
learn, through weekly training, the skills that will make
them more effective in their individual placements and their
team projects.
The PUBLIC ALLIES Apprenticeship Program began in September of 1992
in Washington and has received excellent feedback from the
organizations and agencies in which young people are placed and
from the community at large. The team of "Public Allies" represent
a variety of racial, ethnic, economic, and educational backgrounds
and have chosen to work on economic development in a low-income
community in Washington, DC as their team project for the year.
Lessons Learned from Creating PUBLIC ALLIES
From our efforts designing and implementing a program to meet the
needs of young people and their communities, PUBLIC ALLIES has
learned that:
young people from different cultural, socio-economic, and
educational backgrounds can work together as an effective
team. Diversity is a strength and not a weakness in solving
community problems.
non-profit organizations and government agencies are
interested in young staff who, as a result of support and
hands-on training provided by an outside organization, are
ready to hit the ground running. In fact, organizations are
willing to invest substantial financial resources to develop
young people as public leaders and as future staff.
for any innovative program to be effective, young people and
leaders from the communities involved must be engaged in the
design and implementation of the program.
programs to involve young people in community problem-
solving can be run at low cost and funded by innovative
public-private-non-profit partnerships.
PUBLIC ALLIES: Meeting the Demand for National Service
The expansion of the PUBLIC ALLIES Apprenticeship Program model
depends on the creation of an innovative partnership between the
public, private and non-profit sectors. To date, PUBLIC ALLIES has
raised $750,000, primarily from private foundations, but also from
non-profits, corporations, individuals and unions. These funds
support the Pilot Program in Washington and the new Regional Office
in Chicago, as well as the national office which conducts all
evaluation and expansion of the PUBLIC ALLIES model to new sites.
Because of support for our programs across the nation, we have
begun planning to replicate our project in four to six cities
around the country by 1994, beginning with Chicago in 1993.
Withdrawal/Redaction Marker
Clinton Library
DOCUMENT NO.
SUBJECT/TITLE
DATE
RESTRICTION
AND TYPE
001. note
Dwight to Eli Segal; re: Public Allies and Today's "Urban Barn-
01/18/1993
Personal Misfile
Raising" (1 page)
COLLECTION:
Clinton Presidential Records
National Service
Rick Allen
OA/Box Number: 2149
FOLDER TITLE:
Public Allies
2013-0661-F
jp4936
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
b(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
b(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of
P3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
an agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
b(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
b(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P5 Release would disclose confidential advice between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
b(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
b(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed
b(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
of gift.
PRM. Personal record misfile defined in accordance with 44 U.S.C.
b(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
2201(3).
concerning wells [(b)(9) of the FOIA]
RR. Document will be reviewed upon request.
PRESIDENT CLINTON'S CALL TO NATIONAL SERVICE
PUBLIC ALLIES' PERSPECTIVE
America today is filled with a new sense of hope. To bring our country together and
solve the pressing problems of our communities, and to make higher education
affordable to all Americans, President-elect Clinton has proposed the creation of a
1+
National Service Trust. Under this program, young people would serve their country and
their communities for one or two years, in exchange for a stipend during their time of
service and vouchers for education or other benefits upon completion of service.
PUBLIC ALLIES' Recommendations for National Service
PUBLIC ALLIES trains diverse young people as leaders through an innovative year-long
(
program. These young people, known as "Public Allies", are placed in one-year full-time
positions at a range of non-profit organizations and government agencies, work on
community problems as a team outside of their individual jobs, and also receive
leadership training.
From our experience helping young people work in their communities, PUBLIC ALLIES
recommends that the national service program should:
Encourage Americans to come home again. National service should rebuild
America's sense of community by providing young people with opportunities to
serve in their home communities.
Create community. There is a sense in America that we cannot survive as a
nation of only rugged individuals, but that should provide young people with
communities outside of their schools and homes. Whether in group programs O.
in individual programs with an intensive team component, young people from
diverse backgrounds should have the opportunity to be part of a community tha
supports them, and to engage in efforts larger than themselves.
Listen to local communities. In order to succeed, national service should be a
part of, not an imposition on, our communities. Local individuals and groups
should take part in designing and implementing service programs in order to build
long-term support and strengthen capacity for problem-solving in communities.
Give young people a voice. Young people's continuing participation in planning
the National Service program is vital to ensure that those who President Clinton
asks to serve will answer his call.
Decentralize, not centralize. Provide a slim, non-bureaucratic entity to allocate
resources to a diverse and innovative range of intermediary organizations which
can more accurately assess, and more efficiently meet, community needs.
1
Invest in the individual. Focus resources on organizations which have low
overheads, so that young people and communities receive the maximum benefits.
Maximize choice. A flexible program offering a broad range of opportunities
will encourage the participation of young people from different backgrounds and
address the varied needs of specific communities.
Reward innovation and results. Young people should apply for vouchers to
participate in the National Service Trust. Certified organizations would then
compete for "vouchered" young people to participate in programs which meet the
needs of both young people and communities. Inviting organizations to compete
for "vouchered" participants will encourage competition and innovation, and
reward successful efforts.
Learn from experience. Involving the non-profit sector will engage individuals
and organizations who have led the design and implementation of social services.
Encourage entrepreneurship. Encourage young people to start their own public
service projects. Funding and team-based training for such entrepreneurial
projects could be managed through an organization like PUBLIC ALLIES.
What is PUBLIC ALLIES?
The leadership needed to solve America's problems already exists in our communities.
PUBLIC ALLIES is a unique privately funded non-profit organization which connects
young leaders from diverse communities with existing non-profit organizations and
government agencies which address pressing issues in our communities and our country.
PUBLIC ALLIES is a multi-cultural non-profit organization designed to help young
people, in all their diversity, take leadership in improving our neighborhoods and our
nation through a long-term commitment to public life. Our Apprenticeship Program is
one of many innovative models for President-elect Clinton's national service initiative.
"Public Allies":
work together in a team to address one issue that impacts their community.
serve for a year in a full-time placement at a community-based or national non-
profit organization, community development corporation, or government agency.
learn, through weekly training, the skills that will make them more effective in
their individual placements and their team projects.
2
The PUBLIC ALLIES Apprenticeship Program began in September 1992 in the District
of Columbia and has received positive reviews from the organizations and agencies in
which young people are placed and from the community at large. The team of "Public
Allies" come from diverse racial, ethnic, economic, and educational backgrounds and
have chosen to work on economic development in a low-income community in
Washington, DC as their team project for the year.
Lessons Learned from Creating PUBLIC ALLIES
For over one and a half years, PUBLIC ALLIES staff and volunteers interviewed young
people and experienced community leaders to design and implement a program to meet
the needs of young people and their communities. From our experiences, PUBLIC
ALLIES has learned that:
Young people from different cultural, socio-economic, and educational
backgrounds can work together as an effective team. Diversity is a strength and
not a weakness in solving community problems.
Non-profit organizations and government agencies are interested in young staff
who, as a result of support and hands-on training provided by an outside
organization, are ready to hit the ground running. In fact, organizations are
willing to invest substantial financial resources to develop young people as public
leaders and as future staff.
For any innovative program to be effective, young people and leaders from the
communities involved must be engaged in the design and implementation of the
program.
Programs to involve young people in community problem-solving can be run at
low cost and funded by innovative public-private-non-profit partnerships.
PUBLIC ALLIES: Meeting the Demand for National Service
The expansion of the PUBLIC ALLIES Apprenticeship Program model depends on the
creation of an innovative partnership between the public, private and non-profit sectors.
To date, PUBLIC ALLIES has raised $750,000, primarily from private foundations, but
also from non-profits, corporations, individuals and unions. These funds support the
Pilot Program in Washington and the new Regional Office in Chicago, as well as the
national office which conducts all evaluation and expansion of the PUBLIC ALLIES
model to new sites. Because of support for our programs across the nation, we have
begun planning to replicate our project in four to six cities around the country by 1994,
beginning with Chicago in 1993.
3
PUBLC ALLIES--2/19/93
DRAFT--Sample Summer Ideas
PROGRAMS
I. Youth Liaison Corps
Competitive Application Process
Target non-profits (community based organizations, issue groups,
national non-profits, social service agencies), community development
corporations, foundations and government agencies.
Create Youth Liaison Positions at each organization to maximize impact
of young people in helping organizations to achieve its stated mission (e.g.,
creating mechanisms to involve youth as resources at different levels of
organizations,, from boards to service provision).
Youth gather weekly for training and support.
Provide Leadership Opportunities for Young People to Make an Impact
in their community.
II. Youth Issues Corps
Competitive Application Process
Target non-profits (community based organizations, issue groups,
national non-profits, social service agencies), community development
corporations, foundations and government agencies.
Create teams of fifteen young people from diverse backgrounds to work
with existing infrastructure of public and non-profit sector organizations to
address pressing issues in communities served
Examples --Working with a neighborhood group on public safety issues,
a team creates an orange hat brigade to walk youth to school.
--Working with a community development corporation,
a team creates a summer job training program
including resume writing, grooming and self-esteem
for youth.
Provide leadership opportunities for diverse teams of youth to impact
issues in their community.
III. Summer Training Schools
Target Youth already in service
Provide training and support to youth in service
Create a cadre of leaders to design and implement the full-scale service
corps
IV. Entreprenuers Corps
$1500 to create an initiative
Selected by competitive process
Pool of young people identified through events honoring young people
who are making a difference
EVENTS
I. TLT-10 around the country
II. 5 Dwight events
III. The National Service Project (Atlas Theater Renovation)
WHAT PA CAN DO
I. Training
II. Technical Assistance
III. TLT's
IV. The National Service Project
PHOTOCOPY
FACT SHEET
PRESERVATI
WE HAVE A DREAM:
D.C. & NATIONAL YOUTH GROUPS HOLD AN INAUGURAL URBAN BARN-RAISING
Will Build "Generational Space", The Nation's First Joint Youth Think Tank & Community Center
On Martin Luther King's Birthday and at the outset of President Clinton's inaugural festivities celebrating
hope and American renewal, young people from the District of Columbia and across America will gather to
renovate the Atlas Theater on H Street, NE. The theater has been donated rent-free for one year by the H
Street Community Development Corporation. The refurbished building is dubbed "Generational Space" by
The National Service Project, a collective which will help to renovate the building to serve as a community
center and youth think tank for national service.
What: Urban Barn-Raising Event For First Joint Youth Think Tank & Community Center
When: Monday, January 18
12:00-5:00 (work), 5:00-8:00 (hip hop street party)
Where: Atlas Theater, Corner of H & 12th Streets, NE
The National Service Project is sponsoring "Generational Space's" barn-raising with a day of restoration
work and community service. Inside the theater, youth will paint and refurbish the space. Outside, youth
will work with the H Street community to work on community service projects and register voters.
"Generational Space' is designed by youth from D.C. and all over the country as a place for a new
generation to call its own. It's a space where issues of concern to all young people, like national service,
can be addressed while we do what we dream-rebuild our communities and our neighborhoods," said
Vanessa Kirsch, founder of PUBLIC ALLIES, a possible model for national service which develops young
community leaders.
The H Street Community Development Corporation has offered the Atlas Theater, deserted for more than a
decade, in exchange for renovation assistance. In addition, "Generational Space" will house service groups,
a coffee shop, and a performance area where young people can interact and work together. The building
will provide opportunities for community youth to learn entrepreneurial skills by running cafe and through
other ventures. "Generational Space" will also work with the H Street community to identify and address
neighborhood needs.
"The best way to create change in this country and inspire hope in the future is by having groups like ours
work together to unite our communities and solve our country's most pressing problems. National service
and community service must be generated through collaborations of people and organizations from the
grassroots up, not from a federal bureaucracy down," said Steve Вап, founder of Rock the Vote, an
organization which registers youth to vote, and the Boniface Project, which works with young people to
rebuild their communities. Other hosts of The National Service Project kick-off include Black Male Youth
Project, Campus Green Vote, Campus Outreach Opportunity League, College Democrats of America, D.C.
Habitat for Humanity, D.C. Service Corps, H Street Community Development Corporation, Howard
College Democrats, PUBLIC ALLIES, U.S. Student Association, Young People for National Service, and
Youth Service America.
Clinton Presidential Records
Digital Records Marker
This is not a presidential record. This is used as an administrative
marker by the William J. Clinton Presidential Library Staff.
This marker identifies the place of a publication.
Publications have not been scanned in their entirety for the purpose
of digitization. To see the full publication please search online or
visit the Clinton Presidential Library's Research Room.
THE PUBLIC ALLY
VOL. 1, NO. 1 THE NEWSLETTER OF PUBLIC ALLIES: THE NATIONAL CENTER FOR CAREERS IN PUBLIC LIFE WINTER, 1992
Topics
WHAT IS PUBLIC ALLIES?
PUBLIC ALLIES is a new multi-cul-
tural organization founded in 1991 by a
coalition of young leaders and commu-
nity advisors. PUBLIC ALLIES is de-
signed to provide our generation with
opportunities to take leadership of solv-
ing our country's most pressing social
problems. Through our Apprenticeship
and Public Education Programs, we re-
PUBLIC
cruit, inform, place, train, and support
young people in jobs in the public and
non-profit sectors.
PUBLIC ALLIES is committed to:
Fant!
ALLIES JUTATA BASNIGHT AND SLOAN WIESEN LEAD A DISCUSSION ON ETHICAL LEADERSHIP.
PUBLIC LIFE
We believe that our country should
INAUGURAL ALLIES
value and dedicate resources to engag-
ing its citizens in public problem-solving.
"Okay, let's do the zoom," Samuel
to respect...such as 'everyone gets an
We define public life as the space where
Moore, an exuberent 20-year old native
equal chance to speak and each speaker
people representing diverse back-
of Ward 8, announces to the group of 14.
must be recognized' and such common
grounds, issues and institutions unite to
"W-w-wait...I have to finish my..."
sense things that often get neglected,
combine their talents and energies to
exclaims Sloan Wiesen, a 22-year old
such as 'respect each other's beliefs'."
shape a more just and liveable world.
Ally dashing off some final notes in his
The 14 Allies meet weekly to re-
journal.
ceive skills training - the broad curricu-
YOUNG PEOPLE
"Let's do the zoom!" voices impa-
lum ranges from computer literacy
We believe that our generation-those
tiently interrupt.
workshops to coalition building skills.
between the ages of 18 and 30 - must
"RULES!!"
Linking the weekly trainings is a
prepare now to assume civic leadership
What is this language of zooms
"public problem" the Allies plan to solve
as we begin to inherit the enormous
and of rules? It is not a secret cult or a
within the year of their Apprenticeship.
social, political and economic challenges
limbo contest. This is an opening ritual
The core training is the skeleton of
facing the world.
of a PUBLIC ALLIES training session; a
support for the Public Allies Appren-
weekly part of the Public Allies Appren-
ticeship Program. What makes up the
DIVERSITY
ticeship Program. It is a language of
Apprenticeship program?
teamwork and camaraderie; a language
The Public Allies Apprenticeship
We believe that diversity is critical to
of trust and empathy. It is a language of
program is the culmination of a year
problem-solving. We are committed to
endurance and the sense of humor
and a half long effort by over one-
removing barriers and strengthening the
needed for social change.
hundred young people to create a new
voices of individuals and communities
More importantly, this language is
generation of leadership through a
that face any obstacle to working in
spoken in an arena where fourteen indi-
unique model. Vanessa Kirsch, the Ex-
public life.
viduals from potently diverse back-
ecutive Director and founder, was in-
grounds see each other on equal ground.
spired to start the organization after tran-
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Megan Webster, a 26-year old Ally re-
scribing interviews with young people
We believe that young people must be
marked, "What makes this a unique
on their attitudes towards the political
provided with jobs in the public and non-
environment to have a dialogue are the
system. She concluded from the inter-
profit sectors that will inspire them to
groundrules that as a group we agreed
views that a mechanism was needed to
make a long-term commitment to public
CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
life.
PRESIDENT CLINTON'S CALL TO NATIONAL SERVICE:
PUBLIC ALLIES PERSPECTIVE
NATIONAL SERVICE
America today is filled with a new sense of hope. Hope that after
years of divisiveness, we can begin to bring this country
together around one common agenda: solving the most pressing
problems of our urban and rural communities. To address these
issues and to make college affordable for all Americans,
President-elect Clinton has proposed the creation of a National
Service Trust. Through this program, young people would serve
their country and their communities for one or two years in
exchange for a stipend during their time of service and
educational (or others options) vouchers at the completion of
service.
WHAT IS PUBLIC ALLIES?
PUBLIC ALLIES is a multi-cultural non-profit organization
designed by young people for young people. PUBLIC ALLIES is a
catalyst to help our generation, in all its diversity, take
leadership in improving society through a long-term commitment to
public life. Because we engage young people from diverse
backgrounds in community problem solving we are one of many
models for national service fulfilling the goals the needs of
President-elect Clinton's National Service Trust Initiative.
The leadership needed to solve America's problems already exists
in our communities. PUBLIC ALLIES is a unique privately funded
mechanism which connects young leaders from diverse communities
with an already existing infrastructure of non-profit
organization and government agencies which are currently
addressing pressing issues in our neighborhoods and our nation.
PUBLIC ALLIES develops diverse teams of young people as leaders
through an innovative year-long team training program called the
PUBLIC ALLIES Apprenticeship Program. These young people are
known as "Public Allies." Over the course of the year, Public
Allies:
Work as a team to collectively address one issue that
effects their local community;
Serve a one-year Apprenticeship in a full-time position
at a community based or national non-profit
organization, community development corporation or
government agency; and
Learn the skills that will make them more effective in
their full-time positions and community-based projects
The PUBLIC ALLIES Apprenticeship Program began in September of
1992 in Washington and has received excellent evaluations from
the host organizations in which the young people are placed and
from the community at large. The team of fourteen Public Allies
represent a variety of racial, ethnic, economic, and educational
backgrounds, and began their training in September of 1992.
PUBLIC ALLIES BELIEVES:
our generation must prepare now to inherit the enormous
social, political and economic challenges facing the
world
our country should value and dedicate resources to
engaging its citizens in public problem-solving
our county must come together across lines of class,
race, and other differences to work to improve our
communities and our country
our generation must be provided opportunities in the
public and non-profit sector that will inspire them to
make a long-term commitment to community involvement
EXPANDING TO MEET THE DEMAND FOR NATIONAL SERVICE
Growth
The expansion of the PUBLIC ALLIES Apprenticeship
Program model depends on the creation of an innovative
partnership between private foundations, government,
corporations and local communities. To date, PUBLIC
ALLIES has raised over $750,000, primarily from
foundation sources. These funds support the Pilot
Program in Washington and the regional office in
Chicago, as well as the national office which conducts
all evaluation and expansion of the PUBLIC ALLIES model
to new sites. Because of support our programs has
multiplied throughout the nation, we have begun
planning to replicate our project in cities around the
country, beginning with Chicago in 1993 and four to six
new sites by 1994.
Funding
By combining federal, private foundation and corporate
support with the resources of non-profit organizations,
PUBLIC ALLIES can form an innovative public, private
and non-profit venture to involve thousands of young
people from diverse backgrounds in community problem-
solving.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR IMPLEMENTING A NATIONAL SERVICE INITIATIVE
To ensure the success of a national service initiative, PUBLIC
ALLIES recommends that national service:
provide maximum choice for young people involved in
national service. A broad base of opportunities will
accommodate diverse groups of people and address the
specific needs of their communities.
foster community involvement. In order to succeed,
national service must be a part of, not an imposition
on our communities. Local individuals and groups must
take part in designing and implementing service
programs in order to build community support and also
strengthen local capacity for problem-solving.
include young people in all levels of the design and
implementation of national service programs. This
level of responsibility will ensure that those who
President Clinton will ask to serve will indeed be
inspired to answer his call.
involve the non-profit sector. During the last twelve
years, non-profit organizations have lead our country
in policy and social service innovation, in design and
implementation
iN TERMS OF OUR MAJOR HOUSING PROGRAMS, BECAUSE OF
COMMITMENTS ITS IMPORTANT TO MAINTAIN HOUSING STOCK. THIS IS
WHAT THE STOCK LOOKS LIKE. nOW, WHERE TO FOCUS, home, SECTION 8
OR hope. WE RECOMMEND A COMBINATION, WITH ANY ADDITIONAL FUNDING
BEING PLACED IN PRIORITY PROGRAM.
o There are an array of legislative and administrative
initiatives that the Administration can undertake to address the
affordable housing crisis faced by low- and moderate-income
renters. The four most promising actions are as follows:
1. Tax Credits
2. HOME
3. Reform Vouchers
4.
Reform
of
(administrative)
-mention
it.
Public
Housing
a discussion here on who lives where and the usefullness of the
programs
RECOMMENDATIONS
1) EXTEND LOW INCOME HOUSING TAX CREDIT
existing mine rele
Option 1: Permanently with modifications
Option 2: 1 year extension with study
w/ MORE I mod,
Extend the Low Income Housing Tax Credit through legislative
action. You pledged to make permanent the Low Income Housing Tax
Credit (LIHTC). Authority for the LIHTC expired on June 30,
1992. The vetoed tax bill, HR 11, included as Section 1203 the
permanent extension of authority.
Created in 1986 and administered by Treasury, this credit
has generated public/private partnerships and financing of more
than 420,000 units of affordable rental housing. It is
distributed to states based on a $1.25 per capita formula. The
state allocates credit based on projects which create low-income
housing. The developer attracts investors who can use the
credit. Community development based non-profits match developers
and investors, such as Local Initiatives Support Corporation
(LISC). According to LISC, Homebuilders and National Council of
State Housing Agencies, the LIHTC is responsible for as many as
90,000 jobs (more conservative estimates place it around 56,000),
$1.8 billion in wages, and a total of $14 to $15B in economic
activity associated with the annual production of more than
100,000 units of low-cost rental housing. Thus, the credit has
the dual benefit of creating jobs and expanding housing
opportunities for low and moderate income families (those earning
less than 60% of median income).
The tax credit accounts for more than one-third of all
multi-family rental construction starts and more than 95% of low
income housing construction.
2) MRB
OPTIONS
The principle question is whether to extend the LIHTC on a
Public Allies is a well-developed concept, and an important one for all who are concerned
about the younger generation's leadership and involvement in public interest causes and
public service in general.
Peter D. Hart, Political Pollster
It is our duty to overcome the obstacles in our community that range from school drop-out,
drug abuse, delinquency, unemployment to a high crime rate
A career in public life will
enable me to continue assisting in the struggle for better education and respect of human
rights of my community.
Mario Alvarez, 1992 Apprentice
Who would have guessed that in a weekend, 16 people could unite emotionally, politically
and culturally? Through the course of the PUBLIC ALLIES Training Weekend I have
found new friends and new committed allies in the fight to save our communities.
Malkia Lydia, 1992 Apprentice
I feel that a career in public service will allow me to achieve my dream.
I bring with me
a sense of compassion facing inner city, as well as minority, youth, because basically I know
where they are coming from, in fact I am one of them.
Jutata Basnight, 1992 Apprentice
A career in public service will help me to better serve the young people that I have pledged
myself to. By making youth development my chosen profession, I can focus on my dream
full-time, a goal that not only makes my community a better place but also brings me
personal fulfillment.
Samuel L. Moore, 1992 Apprentice
My background and education places me in a position to contribute my sensitivity and
knowledge to public policy. I welcome the challenge to create equality in race, gender, and
economic status. A career in public service would allow me to make my contribution to
[Martin Luther King's] Dream and fulfill my own by placing me in an environment that
encourages shared knowledge, experience, and commitment to the public good -- perhaps, a
microcosm of a future time.
Kim Tso, 1992 Apprentice
When President Kennedy launched the Peace Corps, there was a spirit of urgency in the air,
and the determination to take personal responsibility and direct action against the pressing
human problems here at home. I believe our people---especially young people like those
PUBLIC ALLIES is honoring here--are ready to apply that same sense of urgency, that same
sense of direct action and personal responsibility.
Harris Wofford, United States Senator (D-PA)
The diversity and dedication of your organization is truly exemplary. In a world filled with
problems and with negative stereotypes about young people, it is truly refreshing to have
young people recognizing and supporting other young people.
Marian Wright Edelman, President, Children's Defense Fund
I am tremendously excited about PUBLIC ALLIES. These energetic and talented young
people have a vision for a better future that is vital to the District of Columbia. So I join in
honoring them on National Youth Service Day. Their choice of public service as a full-time
activity and long-term goal gives me great confidence in the future of our community.
Mayor Sharon Pratt-Kelly, Mayor, District of Columbia
The PUBLIC ALLIES organization is to be commended for seizing this initiative to bring
together those who can facilitate community and change and to utilize those who are making
a difference as role models.
Isaac Fulwood, Former Chief of Police, District of Columbia.
In a short time PUBLIC ALLIES has become a valuable network for young people in
Chicago seeking or pursuing public service careers in the government or non-profit sectors.
Elizabeth Hollander, Director, Government Assistance Project
Public Allies presents an opportunity [for individuals] to transform their commitment to
community into a career in public service. We have faith that the Public Allies
apprenticeship program can provide us and other community organizations with the zealous
staff support we are unable to support on our own.
Jon Amsterdam, Program Director, DC Service Corps
Public Allies are the cream of the crop! Their initial screening process ensures a pool of
applicants that are not only diverse and outstanding, but in fact, of consistently higher quality
than candidates I have interviewed from general newspaper employment advertisements.
Denise Zeck, Executive Director, American Forum
THE WASHINGTON POST
A LOOK AT
The Voting Blocs
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 1992 C3
The Roaring Twenties
No Longer Apathetic, Younger Voters are Shaking Up Politics
(with 22 percent saying they do trust them).
flames of youth activism. Bill Clinton and AI
By Jonathan S. Cohn
So much for young idealism.
Gore appointed themselves prophets of "gen-
Still, the last six months have witnessed a
erational change" in July and have appealed
ADONNA IS not quite what Thom-
significant turnaround in twentysomething
directly to twentysomething voters. The result
M
as Jefferson had in mind when he
political attitudes. Prior to the '92 presidential
is that 18- to 30-year-olds, once thought a solid
said civic leaders need to educate the
campaign, most political observers had written
Republican bloc, now represent Clinton/Gore's
public about politics. But if Jefferson could
off these voters altogether. Studies such as the
strongest age-group constituency.
have seen Madonna on the recent "Rock the
"Age of Indifference," published two years ago
"I remember the last two or three elections
Vote" television program, he might have given
by the Times-Mirror Center for the People
on campus," says Owen Byrd, director of
her a hearty endorsement.
and the Press, argued that young voters "know
GreenVote, a group of young environmental
That's because Rock the Vote, A music-in-
less" and, "care less" about politics than any
activists that has helped organize some Clin-
dustry campaign to increase voter registration
generation in recent memory.
ton/Gore campaign rallies. "I think this is dif-
According to the MTV survey, though, 65
ferent. This is bigger. People feel more urgent
among youth, may be succeeding where pre-
percent of this age group say they have a high
about it."
vious efforts have failed. With only three
interest in politics and 55 percent say they talk
weeks until Election Day, the MTV genera-
politics. And 87 percent think America needs
tion-my generation-is finally tuning in to
to make "major changes" this election year.
B
ut exactly what does the MTV gener-
ation want from the next four years? It's
the world of politics.
How does this translate into issues? When the
difficult to tell, because for all the new
According to a recent survey conducted by
American Council on Education and UCLA
idealism, there remains that nagging hesitancy
MTV and Rock the Vote, more than 60 per-
surveyed college freshmen last year, they
to embrace idealistic crusades. We want
cent of eligible voters under 30 say they are
found that support for national health care,
change but have trouble believing it can hap-
"almost certain" to vote in November. That
abortion rights, gay rights and the environ-
pen. We're stuck in a political split-personality,
ROB SHEPPERSON-FOR THE WASHINGTON POST
figure may be optimistic (who admits to not
ment had reached its highest level ever.
personified by the emergence of two groups in
one-year apprenticeships with various organ-
Sheer financial reality is also impelling many
Washington during the last year.
Although non-partisan, both organizations
planning to vote?), but the turnout will surely
izations and officials. Seeking to foster political
aspire to the same goal: progressive politiciza-
toward politics. According to the Economic
One group, Public Allies, was started by7
exceed the paltry figures of the past few elec-
idealism among those who have the most rea-
tions, when as few as 36 percent of eligible
Policy Institute, wages for young workers
26-year-old Vanessa Kirsch after her stint
tion of the twentysomethings. The problem,
son to be disillusioned, it seems to have struck
with pollster Peter Hart, who was surveying
alas, is one of competing expectations. If Pub-
have steadily declined over the last 20 years,
a nerve.
voters in this age bracket bothered.
landing more and more of us in what novelist
young voters for People for the American
lic Allies promotes more government activism,
Unfortunately, voting is but one symbolic
A few blocks away, another organization is
Douglas Copeland described as "McJobs"-
Way. While that group concluded that the
Lead or Leave calls for more government re-
crusading to bring the young back into the
part-albeit an important one-of civic virtue.
young simply didn't care about politics or is-
sponsibility. The priorities that these groups
low-pay, low-prestige, no-future service-sector
political fold. Lead or Leave, the brainchild of
If the sudden revival of interest in politics
jobs. With the recession, mild financial angst
sues, Kirsch-after transcribing scores of in-
implicitly endorse provide an apt metaphor for
youthful pols Jon Cowan and Rob Nelson, asks
among twentysomethings is heartening, the
has become full panic, and many of us are pay-
terviews-suspected the problem was more
this generation's political choices. According to
politicians to take a pledge that they will not
polls, most of us feel similarly tom between
lingering cynicism about what politics can ac-
ing attention to what the candidates are saying
complex. The surveys "said young people have
seek re-election unless the deficit is cut by 50
a negative attitude towards politics, civic par-
the extremes of moral idealism and political
complish is a cause for worry: According to an
about the economy-if only out of necessity.
percent during the next four years. Because
MTV/Rock the Vote survey of 18- to 29-year-
ticipation," Kirsch says, "but underlying that
skepticism. This is, after all, the generation
In the MTV survey, 73 percent viewed the
government debt prevents spending and
olds, 75 percent say they distrust politicians
present as a hard time for youth (20 percent
was a real interest in doing something and
that woke up to politics with Watergate. To
growth, the two men see the deficit as the
truly engage us, leaders will have to deliver
believe the opposite), and 51 percent think the
making a difference in their communities."
primary obstacle to a progressive politics that
Jonathan Cohn is assistant editor of the
Today, Public Allies seeks to capitalize on
genuine social progress, which has been ab-
economy is a primary issue.
young voters would care about. "It's our fu-
American Prospect, a political quarterly based
The Democratic presidential candidates,
that instinct by recruiting participants from
sent thus far in our lifetimes. And if they don't?
ture," says Nelson. "We ought to ask our gen-
in Cambridge, Mass.
meanwhile, have been busily stoking the
Washington's inner city and placing them in
Then we may truly become a generation lost
eration to go to bat for itself."
in the political process.
DRIVING FOR
name
praf-or
HANGE
Non-Profit
(ounus
-
estecure
non-profit and or The Natural Center
Careers
in
for
Vanessa Kirsch, founder of Public Allies, is building a movement
to foster youthful leadership in progressive public service
By Todd Savage
young people doing this kind of work
high school that I would be running a
and supporting each other."
non-profit organization," she says with
Today her dream has a 17-mem-
an easy laugh.
ust out of college in 1987,
ber board of directors, some founda-
Community is a common thread
Vanessa Kirsch was headed
in her work. When Kirsch got to
J
tion support, a full-time an office
for lowa to work on the
and a new name. Public Allies: The
Washington after the Dukakis cam-
Dukakis presidential cam-
National Center for Careers in Public
paign ended, she found many young
paign. The problem was
Lifeis gearing up to place young people
women like herself who were out of
that she had never driven a
aged 18to. 30 in year-
work and new to
Vanessa
car. So Kirsch's father got in
long internships
the city. Sixty
the passenger seat and gave
with public-interest
Polls and stories in
womenshowedup
Kirsch
his determined daughter lessons. Go-
groups, commu-
the media have
at a dinner party
ing west on the I-80 from Boston to
nity-based organi-
painted a gloomy
she and some
lowa, she learned how to drive A cross-
zations
and
picture about the
friends planned,
Born: Summit. N.J.
country driving lesson speaks volumes
government agen-
nation's nascent
and that night they
Raised: Cambridge, Mass.
about her young life: When Kirsch has
cies (formerly
decided to form the
Education: Tuits University
a destination in mind, she figures out a
known by the acro-
citizenry: Young
Women's informa-
Favorite Book: A Room of
way to get there
nym NCCPL, the
people today vote
tion Network
One's Own
After the campaign, Kirsch took
organization's
less and care less
(WIN). The group
Favorite Way to relax:
a job in Washington, D.C. transcribing
board recently
about the political
has since grown to
Painting funky chairs
interviews with young people for
adopted thesimplex
process than their
nearly 1,200
Major Heroes/Heroines:
pollster Peter Hart. Listening to them
Public Allies as a
women in the city
parents and
Chai Ling
talk about their views on voting and
prefix to the longer
and offers a job
Favorite Place: Esterbrook
the political system. Kirsch says she
name).
grandparents did.
bank, mentors, a
Woods, Mass.
detected something troubling in their
The big vi-
They are so the
newsletter and
Wish List for your Non-
words.
sion of the whole
story goes
educational
Profit Organization:
I got a sense that they didn't
thing" Kirsch ex-
apathetic, self-
events. A vehicle
Finding enough jobs for all
know how to get involved." says
plains, is to build a
centered and not up
for progressive
young people out there who
Kirsch, who IS 26 years oid. They didn't
movement which
women to talk
know how to make a difference. And
to the challenge of
want to make a difference.
means training and
about issues or or-
they feit pretty discouraged. With that
sustaining young
solving our country's
ganize a campaign
I just said, 'Gosh, there's a link miss-
leaders so they can
problems.
or voiunteer
ing.''
be there for the long
project. WIN was
Poils and stories in the media have
haul and dedicated to our country and
described as of themost advanced,
painted a gioomy picture of thenation's
our communities."
vibrant and dynamic young feminist
young citizenry: Young people today
Based in Washington, D.C., the
groups in the country" in Paula
voteless and care less about the political
office of Public Allies is buzzing with
Lamen's recent book, Feminist Fatale:
process than their parents and grand-
75 young volunteers, four interns and
Voices from the Twentysomething' Gen-
parents did. They are-so thestory goes
three full-time staff people. These in-
cration Expiore the Future of the Women's
apathetic, self-centered and not up to
clude Kirsch, Katrina Browne a 24-
Movement.
the chailenge of solving our country's
year-oid former Advocacy institute
Providing coapboxes for her gen-
problems.
staff member- and Allessandra Puvak.
eration has been a common link to her
At the same time, young people
23. a five-year veteran of grassroots de-
ideas. In addition to WIN and Public
in recent years have been getting in-
velopment work. Regional directors
Allies. Kirsch has worked with friends
volved in community service in im-
will be hired soon for project offices in
to create a social group under the
pressive numbers. But perennial
Chicago and Montana (where offices
banner or "Young Advocates Wanting
pressure, stud ent-loan debts and a lack
will also serve Idaho and Wyoming).
a Network" (YAWN) which has been
of information about non-profits ail
Funded by foundations. corporations
merged into PublicAllies and a forum
have prevented many fromdoing good
and individual contributions. the first
called "New Democrats for the 90s."
once they get their dipiomas. So public
group of 20 interns. or "ailies." will
service work ends up being a college
begin their internships in September 5
The future needs young
pastime- not a viable career path.
Washington, D.C Interns will be placed
leaders
What was needed. Kirsch de-
in Chicago and the northern Rockies
Supporting and training young
cided. was an organization to recruit
later this year.
people. Kirsch says, are necessary to
and train taiented young people for
Starting an organization from
sustain their commitment and interest
careers in public service. "I started
scratch isn't new to Kirsch. Since high
in public service. Without it. Pablo
dreaming of what would make it
school she has been the architect or a
easier." she savs. "and how we could
haif-dozen spinted initiatives aimed at
See Non-Profit Entrepreneur.
have teams all over the country of
fostering young leadership. knew in
on page 10.
March 1992
COMMUNITY
10BS:
The
-
New
Non-Profit Entrepreneur
Continued mm paye
communities that we a actu-
to the volunteers.
for years.'
time." savs Kirsch wno even-
ailv serving," Kirscn says. I
Blazing new trails as a
But wise waras from
madv pursome. .000 muies on
Eisenserg, presuient or the
think everyondy should have
young person with iew. con-
older people or "not so
her ars odometer during the
Center for Community
an opportunity. We a trying
tacts and little experience nas
young in Puolic Allies par-
Dukakis camoaign. That 3
Change warned in August
to create a level plaving field
its drawoacks as wesi as its
lance- has orten made a differ-
sort or what my life about It
13. 1991. issue or the Cironicie
so that everyoody nas a chance
rewards. "We a looking to
ence. Before she decided to
goes back to deciding that
of Phünning: The ruture of
to work in public life"
take on some leadersnio and
starttheorganization. her DOSS
there's some line mussing or
the non-profit world is threat-
have some responsibility. The
Peter Hart told her something
something not working in the
eneu by something more sig-
Muiticuitural
old guard is looking on with a
thacsnetook neart "Hesaid,
svstem. (You savi, "We'll all
auficant than financial woes:
teams are key
little concern 1 think : zer
"When you look for your next
have 10 gather together. and
our inability to attract and -
c
The key to the program.
maxed responses. Same davs
joo. do nat you dream Don't
I'm going to takethe arststed.'
tain the best. brigntest and
Kirsca says. will be creating
peoplesay, Tm ready to hand
just get the DEXI par Kirsch
Becausei find waen somebody
most dedicated young em-
multicultural teams of young'
over the bacon. Whereowere
reculs.
takes the first step, a lot of
playous. specially those rom
people to address problems
you? Evebeen waiting for you
With time. the road. less
people are TEACH to take the
minurity groups."
from a ranee or persoectives.
guys.- Other days they say,
traveled has begun 9 look =
step benind you"
Public Allies will prepare
Worxing with a variety of
"Who are you? Who do you
Tullarto Kirsch "Onceyou ve
For more commetion -
interns ior the mynad or tasks
community groups. the in-
think you are to say you are
taken a risk and it's been a
tact Public Allis as 1225 15th
they will encouncer in their
terms will work together on a
interested in doing this kind
positive experience. you feel
Street Washington. D.C. 20005.
futurenon-pront jobs. Though
common took and "mmoare
or work? I've been doing this
better about doing it the THEXT
or cail 202-232-6800.
they will largely set their own
notes" to understand better
training agenda. some of the
how usues fit together. Strive
tooks include community or
ing to lead by example, Public
ganizing, publicspenking and
Allies initially struggied with
working with volunteers.
diversity. But after lengthy
The organization is also
discussions and training sea-
commuted to piacing young
sions with consultants. Kirsch
people who have traditionaily
savs. they have achieved their
not consuiered a career para in
goal of creaunga multicuitural
the non-profit sector for finan-
organization where the issues
cial or cultural reasons. "It's
are dealt with openiy and hon-
important fort to represent the
estiv, from chepoard members
Clinton Presidential Records
Digital Records Marker
This is not a presidential record. This is used as an administrative
marker by the William J. Clinton Presidential Library Staff.
This marker identifies the place of a publication.
Publications have not been scanned in their entirety for the purpose
of digitization. To see the full publication please search online or
visit the Clinton Presidential Library's Research Room.
PUBLIC ALLIES:
The National Center for Careers in Public Life
honors
TOMORROW'S LEADERS TODAY
PUBLIC
PUBLIC ALLIES
An innovative, domestic Peace Corps
ALLIES
Founded in 1991, PUBLIC ALLIES brings together young people (ages 18 to 30) from diverse
backgrounds and provides them with a one-year service experience, including skills and leadership
training, so that they can make a difference in their communities.
To this end, PUBLIC ALLIES:
Places "Allies" in paid apprenticeships at non-profit organizations and government agencies
Provides them with leadership development and skills training
Supports them in a team service project designed and conducted in partnership with a community.
NEED: Linking community development with leadership development
While conducting a national poll in 1990 on civic attitudes, PUBLIC ALLIES Executive director Vanessa
Kirsch discovered that the vast majority of young people are eager to work on resolving social issues -- if
opportunities are made accessible and affordable. A coalition of young leaders and national advisers
created PUBLIC ALLIES in 1991 to harness this untapped potential.
PROGRAM:
Addressing unmet community needs: A sample of Allies' apprenticeship activities includes: developing a
Community Development Credit Union for two Latino neighborhoods; recruiting volunteers for
constructing low-income housing at Habitat for Humanity; and supervising the activities of young corps
members at the Washington, D.C. Service Corps. Outside of their apprenticeships, each team of Allies
develops a project to meet unmet needs in an issue area, such as housing, economic development,
education, or health care.
Uniting young people through service: Through neighborhood walks and national outreach, PUBLIC
ALLIES recruits high school and college graduates from diverse backgrounds, unites them as a team,
and places them in service in the community. PUBLIC ALLIES fosters a rich public dialogue that is
rarely found and sorely needed in our increasingly multi-cultural society.
FUNDING: Leveraging private, public and non-profit resources towards a common goal
PUBLIC ALLIES' unique funding approach combines the resources of the private, public and non-profit
sectors.
The PUBLIC ALLIES national office is located in Washington, DC. PUBLIC ALLIES currently operates programs in
Chicago, IL and Washington, DC and plans to open offices in four other sites by the fall of 1993. Initial funding for
PUBLIC ALLIES was provided by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur foundation. Additional support comes from the
Rockefeller Brothers fund, the Ford Foundation, the Echoing Green Foundation, and others.
Rev. 6/22/93
815 15th Street NW Suite 610 Washington DC 20005 TEL 202/638-3300 FAX 202/638-3477
PUBLIC
Important Facts About
PUBLIC ALLIES
The Allies
ALLIES
In 1993, 120 young people applied for the 20 positions in the 1994 class of Allies in
Washington, D.C.
In 1993-1994, PUBLIC ALLIES will serve five teams of ten Allies: two teams in Washington
D.C. and three teams in Chicago.
The current Allies are a diverse group: 50 percent male and 50 percent female; 66 percent
African-American; 25 percent Caucasian; 5 percent Latino; and 5 percent Asian-American.
Before starting their apprenticeships, 50 percent of Allies had completed college degrees; 95
percent completed high school, and one Ally earned a G.E.D. In 1993, two graduating Allies
will enter graduate programs at Harvard University and another will begin undergraduate study.
Significant Accomplishments in 1992 - 1993
PUBLIC ALLIES honored 240 young leaders in 1993 at our signature event, Tomorrow's
Leaders Today.
Hillary Rodham Clinton hosted a reception at the White House to recognize the "hard work and
dedication" of PUBLIC ALLIES.
PUBLIC ALLIES was honored as a leader in youth community service, and designated as a
beneficiary, by the 1993 National Sports Awards, broadcast later on NBC television
Del Lewis, CEO of C & P Telephone, hosted a breakfast program in May, 1993 attracting
representatives from one-hundred potential host organizations.
PUBLIC ALLIES hosts monthly job-seekers breakfasts in Chicago which aided young people
considering careers in public service.
By June 22, 1993, PUBLIC ALLIES had reached a national media audience of approximately
thirty-six million people.
Sites and Staffing
PUBLIC ALLIES was founded in 1991 by a coalition of young people and community leaders.
As of 1993, PUBLIC ALLIES had offices in Washington, D.C. and Chicago, IL. In 1994, we
will open four new regional offices in major cities around the nation.
PUBLIC ALLIES currently employs thirteen full-time staff members chosen to reflect the
gender, racial, and ethnic diversity of the United States.
In 1993, over two hundred and twenty youths and adults volunteered with PUBLIC ALLIES.
PUBLIC ALLIES operating budget in 1993 is $1,687,750.
Rev. 6/22/93
815 15th Street NW Suite 610
Washington DC 20005
TEL 202/638-3300 FAX 202/638-3477
PUBLIC
Job Descriptions, 1992-93 Ally Class
revised 5/17/93
ALLIES
Mario Alvarez
Latino Economic Development Corporation
As an Assistant to the Project Director, Mario has been focused on the creation of a Community
Development Credit Union for the residents of the Mount Pleasant and Adams Morgan areas. He has
directed the outreach campaign promoting the credit union, presented the project to community
organizations, tenant associations, church groups and financial institutions, and directed the application
process for membership in the National Federation of Community Development Credit Unions. With the
completion of this project, Mario is looking to develop a health insurance plan using similar methods in the
same area.
Jutata Basnight
D.C. Service Corps (DCSC)
The DC Service Corps (DCSC) guides 100 young people, 17-22 years old, in a full year of full-time
community service work, education and leadership development. As a Corps Leader, Jutata supervises all
activities of ten Corps Members, which includes: (1) building a sense of team and community amongst
team members; (2) developing service projects with local non-profit organizations and government
agencies; (3) acting as on-site liaison and supervising daily service work of the Corps; (4) serving as a role
model, guide, teacher, and informal counselor to team members; and (5) contributing to the ongoing
evolution and refinement of the larger organization. This year, Jutata's Corps has conducted project as
teachers' aides at Walker Jones Elementary School, vision screens in elementary schools around the
District, and assistants at the Hospital for Sick Children and the Washington Home for senior citizens.
Dave Caputo
D.C. Habitat for Humanity
Dave works as Volunteer Coordinator and Office Manager at Habitat, which builds and rehabilitates homes
in partnership with low-income working families for no profit and no interest. While at Habitat, he has
introduced and updated a computer system for financial records, managed the volunteer database of more
than 7,000 names, recruited volunteers for construction and administrative projects, and organized a
coalition of students from different colleges tr raise funds and build a house. In a special project over
Inauguration weekend, Dave coordinated and supervised several hundred volunteers for the 1993 National
Youth Service Project in renovating the Atlas Theatre.
JUN-10-1995
15:04
FRUM
Dan Carter
Washington Innercity Self Help (Project W.L.S.H.)
Dan works with the Washington D.C. community as an organizer for Washington Inner City Self Help
(Project W.L.S.H.). He knocks on doors and learns about the housing concerns that face low to moderate
income neighborhoods, bringing residents together to find effective solutions to these problems. This year,
working with the young people of East Side Manor, Dan and the W.I.S.H. staff organized a letter-writing
campaign and a march to the Department of Community and Housing Development that led to the
allocation of funds for East Side Manor. With his continued assistance, like strategy development and
leadership training, Dan encourages the growth of the smaller groups into civic and area organizations.
Angela Copeland
Environmentors Project
At the Environmentors Project, Angela facilitates a mentorship program between District high school
students and professionals in environmental (and other) science, who advise these students on their
in-school science projects. Toward the Project's goals encouraging students to pursue careers in science,
Angela recruits the environmentors and the students, monitors the environmentor/student project and
partnership, directs an orientation, mid-project seminar, and the final project exhibition, and directs a
targeted public relations campaign to promote the organization
Lorry Hester
Youth Service America (YSA)
Youth Service America (YSA) is a national non-profit, independent organization that advocates for youth
service organizations across the country through training, policy tracking, information sharing, and
technical assistance throughout the year. Working at YSA has placed Lorry at the center of America's
youth service movement. Her administrative work as an office manager and receptionist helps YSA fulfill
its commitment to impacting the national discourse around youth service issues. She is also responsible for
referrals and for disseminating information about the organization.
Malkia Lydia
Advocacy Institute
As a Program Associate, Malkia assists the Program staff with projects that: (1) engage citizens in
changing public policy; (2) provide them with skills necessary to achieve social change; and (3) support
those who choose to make public interest advocacy a profession. Her work includes providing technical
assistance to non-profit organizations, editing, writing and distributing publications, participating on the
leadership training team, providing support to Program projects, and identifying opportunities to raise
public awareness about public interest advocacy and social change work.
Dawnya Mauney
Community Family Life Services
Community Family Life Services is a direct service organization that strives to empower low-income and
homeless/jobless people through employment counseling and by providing other basic life services. As an
Employment Counselor, Dawnya aids homeless people obtain jobs. She interviews and screens applicants
to determine employment needs, helps clients complete applications and resumes, and counsels them on
interviewing and other pertinent job-related skills. She also aids the Job Developer with managing other
aspects of the Employment Program.
Samuel Moore
Dupont I Shelter Home of ARE
(Associates for Renewal in Education)
At the Dupont I Shelter Home, Samuel works in the residential program as a youth care specialist, which
involves counseling adjudicated youth on alternatives to drugs and violence. He also assists with
maintaining each resident's legal and personal information files. The residents at the group homes are either
detained youth who reside for less than 60 days or youth who are committed to the home as an alternative
to juvenile detention halls.
Glenn Northern
National Center for Responsive Philanthropy
The National Center for Responsive Philanthropy exists to make philanthropy more accountable to the
public and more accessible to groups traditionally excluded from philanthropy. Glenn puts this objective
into practice in several ways. He assists in development by obtaining annual reports and maintaining
correspondence with foundations for research on various projects, such as alternative fundraising
opportunities among women, Latinos, and Asian Americans. He also helps organize the annual
philanthropy conference.
Tim Relyea
Associates for Renewal in Education (ARE)
At ARE, Time divides his time between administrative responsibilities and acting as the group homes
liaison for ARE's adjudicated youth program, a group home program for District youth convicted of
crimes. His initial task is to assist in the organizing of the residential youth care program. This involves
meeting with lawyers, hiring contractors for renovations, pursuing inspectors' permits, addressing
neighborhood concerns, and dealing with the Neighborhood Commission. Throughout the year, Tim has
assisted in coordinating the Consortium for Youth Services, facilitating communication between the ARE
staff and the group homes, providing program information for outside contacts, and serving as the ARE
residential youth care program representative at public relations events. He also coordinates the In-School
Work Experience program.
Kim Tso
Commission on National & Community Service (CNCS)
CNCS has been charged with renewing a spirit of civic responsibility and national unity by weaving
community service into the fabric of every American's life. One of CNCS' strategies has been to support
programs through grants in the areas of primary/secondary schools, higher education institutions, youth
corps, and other model of national and community service. As a program associate for youth service and
conservation corps/national service demonstration models, Kim provides technical assistance to the public
and to grantees, administers grant reports, coordinates renewal and review process for grant awards, and
conducts site visits. Most recently, she has been working on administering the federal government's
Summer of Service grant applications for youth corps.
JUN-10-1993
Megan Webster
American Forum
The American Forum is a non-profit educational media organization that works at the grassroots level,
providing a means for progressive community leaders to get their ideas and issues into the mainstream
media. Currently, the Forum is in all eleven former Confederate states with plans to expand nationwide.
Megan's work consists of: (1) coordinating informational and training workshops; (2) tracking and
reporting on media usage for radio, TV, and print; (3) distributing media packets; (4) managing the
internship program; (5) assisting with grant proposals; (6) managing the database; and (7) providing
support services for the staff and state boards of directors.
Sloan Wiesan
D.C. Service Corps (DCSC)
As mentioned earlier, the D.C. Service Corps develops youth aged 17-22 through such community service
projects as painting public facilities, working ad teachers' aides in elementary schools, and picking up trash
along the Anacostia River. The vision of the organization is to empower and to instill a service ethnic
among young people through hands-on work. At DCSC, Sloan's work has ranged from acting as a liaison
between volunteers and staff to writing bi-weekly project reports to assisting in the grant proposal writing
process.
Paul Woods
Columbia Heights Youth Club
Paul works as a Life Skills Coordinator at the Columbia Heights Youth Club, an organization that creates
and implements educational, employment, and personal growth programs. The 6-18 year olds that he
recruits participate in educational and self-esteem workshops dealing with such issues as pregnancy and
parenting, goal setting, decision-making, health and nutrition, and employability skills. In addition, Paul
coordinates computer and academic tutoring, develops and monitors internships for 14-18 year olds, and
writes fundraising proposals.
Clinton Presidential Records
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of digitization. To see the full publication please search online or
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PUBLIC
2.5.2
ALLIES
TOMORROW'S
LEADERS
TODAY
Austin
Edgewater
Rogers Park
Plisen
Public
West Town
We're Changing Our Nation-
One Neighborhood at a Time!
Uptown
Allies
From Pilsen to Uptown, from South Shore to Rogers
CHICAGO
Park, from Edgewater to Austin, the strength of Chicago
Bridgeport
is its diverse neighborhoods. But to keep them vibrant, we
need to prepare public-spirited young people to assume
Our nation needs
leadership roles in those communities today.
Lincoln Park
PUBLIC ALLIES is a unique, multi-cultural, non-profit organization
some special people:
that connects young leaders from diverse communities with a
People who believe in
network of non-profit organizations and government agencies
their communities and
Englewood
addressing issues that face our neighborhoods and our nation.
With support from headquarters in Washington, D.C., the
Chicago affiliate of PUBLIC ALLIES was created in September 1991
the improvement
South Shore
to recruit and train young people for leadership in public
of their country.
service and community life. Through such varied
approaches as career training, financial assistance,
People with energy,
TOMAT PIO
recognition, apprenticeship programs, and public
passion and
issues forums, PUBLIC ALLIES provides diverse teams
of young Chicagoans, ages 18 to 30, with
common sense.
the tools and opportunities to solve
park head
pressing public problems.
People with a citizen's
роомиен
knowledge of what is
and a dreamer's
Park Bueng
square up601
vision of what
We believe: Our generation must prepare now to inherit the enormous social, political,
and economic challenges facing the world. Our country should value and dedicate
should be.
resources to engage its citizens in public problem-solving. We must come together
across lines of class, race, and other differences to improve our communities and our
country. Our generation must pursue opportunities in the public and non-profit sectors
and be inspired to make a long-term commitment to community involvement.
Bridgeport
West Town
Little Village
South Shore
Gold Coast
Bucktown
Logan Square
Beverly
A New Generation
Public
Programs and Events
Solving Public
A core group of young volunteers, full-time staff, and community leaders
Problems
Allies
perform the important work of PUBLIC ALLIES, which includes the following
programs and events:
Lake View
CHICAGO
W
are at a pivotal moment in
Chinatown
American history. Our nation
confronts enormous social, eco-
Apprenticeship Program
nomic, and political challenges. Yet
PUBLIC ALLIES develops diverse teams of young leaders through an innovative, year-long
for each of these challenges, there is
a solution-and a hidden oppor-
training program. Over the course of the year these young people, known as "Allies,"
tunity. Growing numbers of young
work as a team to address an issue that impacts their community;
Hyde Park
Americans see this potential and are
serve in a full-time, paid placement at a community-based or non-profit organization,
committing themselves to creating a
community development corporation, or government agency;
Wrigleyville
better future for all.
learn skills to become more effective in their individual placements and team projects.
Today, young people volunteer in
their communities more than ever-in
shelters and schools, on government
Tomorrow's Leaders Today
campaigns and grass-roots initiatives.
PUBLIC ALLIES, along with prominent community leaders, hosts this annual event honoring 100
Old Town
They are bright, dedicated, and
of Chicago's brightest and most civic-minded young people. By recognizing their efforts,
caring, yet they face enormous
PUBLIC ALLIES hopes to raise the visibility of public-interest work and inspire other young people
Wicker Park
challenges.
to get involved in their communities.
Many young people, especially
those from communities in need,
Resource Center and Education Programs
Pilsen
cannot translate their desire for
change into a viable and meaningful
PUBLIC ALLIES trains young people to become effective public problem-solvers through
career path. The low pay and low
workshops and education programs. PUBLIC ALLIES also maintains a resource center with a
profile of most public-interest work,
resumé bank, job listings, and a library with career information.
Rogers Park
combined with financial obligations,
family pressure, and lack of
Initial funding for PUBLIC ALLIES comes from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, Joyce Foundation, Woods
information, keep countless po-
Charitable Fund, Richard Driehaus Foundation, Chicago Community Trust, the Bauman Family Foundation, The Johnson
tential leaders from working in
Foundation, The Hitachi Foundation, Prince Charitable Trusts, Fannie Mae Foundation, Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation,
Buena Park
Eugene and Agnes Meyer Foundation, Echoing Green Foundation, Public Welfare Foundation, Rockefeller Brothers Fund,
community groups, government, and
Surdna Foundation, labor unions, and many individuals. We are grateful for their support.
citizen organizations.
For more information, contact PUBLIC ALLIES
It is time we dedicate ourselves to
332 S. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1142
Lincoln Park
encouraging and training young
people for opportunities that prepare
Chicago, IL 60604
them for a long-term commitment to
312.435.1153
Douglas
public problem-solving.
601 Printed on Recycled Paper Design by: Paula Kreiter Turelli Paper donated by: Forest-Atwood Paper Co.
Ravenswood
Andersonville
Humboldt Park
Austin
Edgewater
Uptown
Kenwood
Clinton Presidential Records
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This is not a presidential record. This is used as an administrative
marker by the William J. Clinton Presidential Library Staff.
This marker identifies the place of a publication.
Publications have not been scanned in their entirety for the purpose
of digitization. To see the full publication please search online or
visit the Clinton Presidential Library's Research Room.
THE PUBLIC ALLY
VOL. 1, NO. 1 THE NEWSLETTER OF PUBLIC ALLIES: THE NATIONAL CENTER FOR CAREERS IN PUBLIC LIFE WINTER, 1992
Topics
WHAT IS PUBLIC ALLIES?
PUBLIC ALLIES is a new multi-cul-
tural organization founded in 1991 by a
coalition of young leaders and commu-
nity advisors. PUBLIC ALLIES is de-
signed to provide our generation with
opportunities to take leadership of solv-
ing our country's most pressing social
problems. Through our Apprenticeship
PUBLIC
and Public Education Programs, we re-
cruit, inform, place, train, and support
young people in jobs in the public and
non-profit sectors.
PUBLIC ALLIES is committed to:
ALLIES JUTATA BASNIGHT AND SLOAN WIESEN LEAD A DISCUSSION ON ETHICAL LEADERSHIP.
PUBLIC LIFE
We believe that our country should
INAUGURAL ALLIES
value and dedicate resources to engag-
ing its citizens in public problem-solving.
"Okay, let's do the zoom," Samuel
to respect...such as 'everyone gets an
We define public life as the space where
Moore, an exuberent 20-year old native
equal chance to speak and each speaker
people representing diverse back-
of Ward 8, announces to the group of 14.
must be recognized' and such common
grounds, issues and institutions unite to
"W-w-wait...I have to finish my..."
sense things that often get neglected,
combine their talents and energies to
exclaims Sloan Wiesen, a 22-year old
such as 'respect each other's beliefs'."
shape a more just and liveable world.
dashing off some final notes in his
The 14 Allies meet weekly to re-
journal.
ceive skills training - the broad curricu-
YOUNG PEOPLE
"Let's do the zoom!" voices impa-
lum ranges from computer literacy
We believe that our generation-those
tiently interrupt.
workshops to coalition building skills.
between the ages of 18 and 30 - must
"RULES!!"
Linking the weekly trainings is a
prepare now to assume civic leadership
What is this language of zooms
"public problem" the Allies plan to solve
as we begin to inherit the enormous
and of rules? It is not a secret cult or a
within the year of their Apprenticeship.
social, political and economic challenges
limbo contest. This is an opening ritual
The core training is the skeleton of
facing the world.
of a PUBLIC ALLIES training session; a
support for the Public Allies Appren-
weekly part of the Public Allies Appren-
ticeship Program. What makes up the
ticeship Program. It is a language of
DIVERSITY
Apprenticeship program?
teamwork and camaraderie; a language
The Public Allies Apprenticeship
We believe that diversity is critical to
of trust and empathy. It is a language of
program is the culmination of a year
problem-solving. We are committed to
endurance and the sense of humor
and a half long effort by over one-
removing barriers and strengthening the
needed for social change.
hundred young people to create a new
voices of individuals and communities
More importantly, this language is
generation of leadership through a
that face any obstacle to working in
spoken in an arena where fourteen indi-
unique model. Vanessa Kirsch, the Ex-
public life.
viduals from potently diverse back-
ecutive Director and founder, was in-
grounds see each other on equal ground.
spired to start the organization after tran-
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Megan Webster, a 26-year old Ally re-
scribing interviews with young people
We believe that young people must be
marked, "What makes this a unique
on their attitudes towards the political
provided with jobs in the public and non-
environment to have a dialogue are the
system. She concluded from the inter-
profit sectors that will inspire them to
groundrules that as a group we agreed
views that a mechanism was needed to
make a long-term commitment to public
CONTINUED ON PAGE 4
life.
Clinton Presidential Records
Digital Records Marker
This is not a presidential record. This is used as an administrative
marker by the William J. Clinton Presidential Library Staff.
This marker identifies the place of a publication.
Publications have not been scanned in their entirety for the purpose
of digitization. To see the full publication please search online or
visit the Clinton Presidential Library's Research Room.
PUBLIC LIES:
The National Center for C reers in Public Life
honors
TOMORROW'S LEA DERS TODAY