en-us https://www.intensedebate.com/users/275880 Comments by kneary http://change.gov/page/content/discussservice/#IDComment12529218 Part 2: Most organized religious groups that are fairly outwardly directed have similar mission organizations, and in the past, many people became connected to service opportunities through their religious affiliations. However, not as many people today are connected to religious organizations that support social justice work. I read through many of the comments in this discussion and was struck by how few people mentioned being involved in a church organization that provided volunteer service opportunities. Without this avenue of involvment in religious organizations, we will need to find other ways to encourage volunteerism. The public school system is one good option, but I am not sure what is available for adults. Sat, 13 Dec 2008 01:45:49 +0000 http://change.gov/page/content/discussservice/#IDComment12529218 http://change.gov/page/content/discussservice/#IDComment12529209 Part 1: I am a United Methodist pastor. The UM church has an organization called UMCOR, for United Methodist Committee on Relief. This organization provides relief services to people suffering from natural disasters and man-made tragedies. The work done in communities is long-term and designed to help people find ways to live healthy, whole lives again. In addition to supporting UMCOR, all United Methodists are encouraged to be involved in mission opportunities that are local, national or international. In most UM churches congregation members hear almost every Sunday about needs in the world that they can meet, and they hear about ways to put their gifts to use. Sat, 13 Dec 2008 01:44:55 +0000 http://change.gov/page/content/discussservice/#IDComment12529209 http://change.gov/page/content/discusseconomy#IDComment12129932 I agree Eric. I am woefully ignorant of basic economic priniciples, and would also like to see some explanations for how the money is spent. Thu, 4 Dec 2008 14:25:24 +0000 http://change.gov/page/content/discusseconomy#IDComment12129932 http://change.gov/page/content/discusseconomy#IDComment12078505 I'm doing fine so far. I would like someone on the economic team to explain why we have an economy that is tied to constant growth, as opposed to sustainability. And I look forward to answering more specific questions, such as "what ideas do you have for reforming the auto industry?" Thu, 4 Dec 2008 01:42:56 +0000 http://change.gov/page/content/discusseconomy#IDComment12078505