The program began in October 1995, when the governor swore in 18 youths between ages 17 and 25. During the past year the Corps has completed more than 50 projects that entailed 31,680 hours of volunteer service. The program aims to improve neighborhood community policing, elder care and safety, park restoration, Drug Awareness and Resistance Education (DARE), collaboration among community groups, individual awareness, and civic responsibility. Projects included an emergency notification card system for residents of elder housing complexes, a house numbering program, the interior restoration of a community center, the restoration of a park, and an after-school learning program operated in conjunction with the Holyoke Police Department. Participants received weekly stipends, benefits, an educational award, skills training, and general equivalency diploma training.