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In 1992, two young women, Vanessa Kirsch and Katrina Browne, mobilized a diverse network of young leaders and experienced mentors to create Public Allies in The founders created a program that links diverse young Americans who want to make a difference with nonprofit organizations in their communities who need them. In the process, we show young leaders how to turn their passion for making a difference into a viable career path. This unique approach has led Public Allies to grow nationally and in 15 communities while developing a respected, replicable model. Historical Timeline 1992: Public Allies launches first class of 14 Allies in
1993: Public Allies Chicago with 30 Allies is launched by founding Executive Director Michelle Obama. President Clinton names Public Allies a model for national service. First Lady Hilary Clinton hosts Rose Garden reception for Public Allies at the White House.
1994: Public Allies is among first recipients of AmeriCorps grants. Public Allies expands to
1995: Public Allies expands to
1996: Chuck Supple succeeds Vanessa Kirsch as President & CEO of Public Allies.
1998: Public Allies graduates 500th Ally. Public Allies expands to
1999: Public Allies expands to
2000: Paul Schmitz succeeds Chuck Supple as President & CEO of Public Allies. Public Allies begins three-year partnership with Rocky Mountain Youth Corps in rural
2001: Public Allies partners with
2003: Public Allies is founding member of Voices for National Service.
2004: Public Allies expands to
2005: Public Allies launches The Leadership Practice in partnership with
2006: Public Allies partners with Louisiana Delta Service Corps to support Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts. Public Allies expands to
2007: Public Allies graduates 2,000th Ally (2,230 graduates to be exact). Public Allies expands to
2009: Former Public Allies national board member Barack Obama and former Chicago Executive Director and national board member Michelle Obama become the President and First Lady of the Public Allies expands to Passage of the Edward M. Kennedy Serve |
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“When I made the decision to leave my job to found Public Allies… I realized right away that I had made the right decision. There are few things more rewarding than watching young people recognize they have the power to enrich not only their own lives, but the lives of those around them as well.” -Michelle Obama
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Your contribution of provides a young person with a lifelong experience, and supports nonprofits nationwide. Private dollars are matched in combined contributions from AmeriCorps and Partner Organizations.