The Citizen and the Community

Responsibilities Volunteer Each of us belongs to many communities. As community members, we have responsibilities—things we should do or obligations that we fulfill voluntarily. Volunteer

Duties We also have duties—things we are required to do. We must fulfill duties required by national, state, and local governments or face fines or imprisonment.

Civic Duties

Obey the Law Laws serve specific purposes, such as to help people get along, prevent accidents, and see that resources are used fairly.

Pay Taxes Government uses tax money to pay police, pave roads, maintain armed forces, and other activities. Income taxes are a percentage of what people earn. People also pay taxes on the sale of goods and services and on property.

Defend the Nation - if called In the United States, all men aged 18–25 must register with the government in case the country needs to draft, or call up, men for military service. Service is currently voluntary. http://www.sss.gov Selective Service

Serve in Court - if called Every adult citizen must be prepared to serve on a jury or as a witness at a trial if called to do so.

Attend School Most states require young people to attend school until age 16.

Civic Responsibilities

Be Informed Know what the government is doing so that you can voice your opinion. You can learn about issues and leaders by reading print publications, listening to news on the radio or TV, talking to people, and searching the Internet. Also, know your rights. http://www.c-spanclassroom.org

Speak Up and Vote Government exists to serve you, but you must make your concerns known. Call, write, or send e-mail to your elected representatives. Join a political party or work for a cause. Above all, vote.

Study Candidates and Issues Before Marking your Ballot If the performance of an elected leader falls short, vote for someone else in the next election. Voting ensures a peaceful and orderly change of leadership.

Respect Others’ Rights Respect public property and the property of others. Vandalism and littering are not only disrespectful, but are also crimes.

Respect Diversity Although you may disagree with people or disapprove of their lifestyles, they have an equal right to their beliefs and practices. Tolerance means respecting and accepting others, regardless of their beliefs, practices, or differences. Diversity is a strength. All citizens are equal and entitled to be treated the same.

Contribute to the Common Good Contribute time, effort, and money to help others and to improve community life. Be an active participant in your community. http://www.volunteermatch.org

Volunteerism Volunteerism is the practice of offering your time and services to others without payment. Many Americans also contribute money to charity.

National Volunteer Programs The federal government has created national volunteer programs. Americans in the Peace Corps help people in the poorest corners of the world. Volunteers in AmeriCorps and the Senior Corps serve within the United States. "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." -John F. Kennedy

AmeriCorps AmeriCorps members might help disaster victims, clean up polluted rivers, or assist people with disabilities. In exchange, they receive a living allowance and money to help pay for college.

USA Freedom Corps The new USA Freedom Corps brings together the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, and Senior Corps, plus a new component called Citizen Corps.