Dear Fulbrighters,
National Volunteer Week allows us to reflect on the extraordinary achievements of ordinary people making a difference in their communities. This year commemorates the one-year anniversary of the passage of the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act and the Volunteer Generation Fund, sponsored by Fulbright alumnus Rep. Dave Loebsack (Brazil 1987, Mexico 1993). The Fulbright Association thanks Rep. Loebsack and the over 200 advocates who took action to support his amendment to the Serve America Act.
In 2009, the Fulbright Association assisted chapter leaders with coordination of over 170 educational and cultural programs that introduced visiting Fulbrighters to their U.S local communities and connected Fulbright alumni in appreciation of diverse cultures. Their volunteer efforts enormously contribute to the Association's work to promote Senator Fulbright’s vision of increasing mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries.
I would also like to highlight the work of Fulbright alumni activists in support of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2010 Fulbright Program appropriation. We achieved gains in funding the Fulbright Program at $253 million for FY 2010, but this year Congress has vowed to reduce the federal deficit by cutting spending across the board. Fulbright Association members are urging them not to reduce funding for essential State Department exchanges like the Fulbright Program through our online advocacy tools.
We hope that you will consider contributing as generously as possible to the Fulbright Association to help us assist chapter volunteers in communities throughout the United States. Thank you again for your support and for your advocacy on behalf of the Fulbright Program.
With best regards,
Jane L. Anderson, CAE
Executive Director
