What They Are Saying: Elected Officials Applaud more than $580 million in AmeriCorps State and National Grants

WASHINGTON, D.C.– On June 7, AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism, announced one of the largest AmeriCorps State and National investments in agency history. The announced grants, totaling more than $580 million, will allow state service commissions and community-based organizations to recruit more than 42,000 AmeriCorps members and address COVID-19 response, educational opportunity, economic mobility and climate conservation, among other priorities.

This funding allocates more than $139 million of AmeriCorps' historic $1 billion American Rescue Plan investment and more than $156 million in formula funding for governor-appointed state service commissions.

Elected officials and other leaders have applauded AmeriCorps, highlighting the impact this investment will have on communities, particularly in the agency's priority areas: disaster response; economic opportunity; education; environmental stewardship; healthy futures; and veterans and military families.

See below for what they are saying:

Elected Officials

“From urban centers to small towns, the AmeriCorps National Service program has been a consistent source of support for Illinois communities. As our state continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, AmeriCorps members are mentoring students and helping people rebuild their lives,” said Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL). “This program has done so much to help Illinoisans, and Senator Duckworth and I will continue our strong support for funding that aids the great work done by AmeriCorps volunteers.” [Release, 6/3/2022]

“I’m thrilled to see incredible organizations in the Second District such as DIAL/SELF and Clark University receive these critical grants that will help support AmeriCorps members who will foster positive youth development, improve student academic engagement, develop equitable and culturally responsive teaching practices, and support job-readiness and economic self-sufficiency,” said Rules Committee Chairman James P. McGovern (D-MA). “These are vital grants that will make a real difference in our community, and I am proud that our delegation strongly supported the American Rescue Plan which helped to underwrite and expand this funding.” [Release, 6/7/2022]

“AmeriCorps national service programs bring together people from all walks of life to address pressing challenges in local communities and strengthen our nation,” Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) said. “Just as enlisting in the military to defend our country is ‘American Service,’ so is volunteering to help lift up communities. I will continue to advocate for greater investments in national service opportunities so that every Illinoisan who wants to serve has the opportunity to do so.” [Release, 6/3/2022]

"The AmeriCorps [State and National] program is about empowering citizens to strengthen their local communities," said Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH). "These investments will allow organizations across Ohio to take on volunteers who will help tackle local challenges, help local residents access important resources and further expand their efforts to improve the lives of Ohio residents — with no out-of-pocket costs." [Release, 6/7/2022]

“This vital federal funding will help AmeriCorps members in New Hampshire continue to strengthen our communities through their work to support our young people in and out of the classroom, assist survivors of domestic and sexual violence, and protect our environment,” said Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH). “I am pleased to announce this latest funding, and I will continue to work with the NH Delegation to secure critical support for AmeriCorps programs in our state.” [Release, 6/2/2022]

“The impact of the pandemic has been far reaching, affecting virtually all ways of life in our communities. Now, more than ever, AmeriCorps members are vital in helping our communities recover and rebuild, and thanks to the funding made possible by the American Rescue Plan and the FY2022 Appropriations package, they will have the tools to do so,” Senator Angus King (I-ME) and Representative Chellie Pingree (D-01) said. “Through these significant, targeted investments, more AmeriCorps members will be united by a mission to better our great state as we tackle climate change, support our children and recover from the pandemic.” [Release, 6/1/2022]

“West Virginians have a long history of lending a hand to their neighbors in times of need. AmeriCorps programs continue to make incredible impacts on our state, and I am pleased these five programs are receiving awards today. The programs will support West Virginians by increasing youth literacy, combatting the drug epidemic and more,” said Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV). “As a proud supporter of AmeriCorps and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I will continue advocating for resources to support these programs across the Mountain State.” [Release, 6/2/2022]

“As a champion for the Civilian Climate Corps and a supporter of a diverse, well-paid AmeriCorps program, I applaud the nearly $60 million in new AmeriCorps funding for Massachusetts,” said Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA). “We can and must continue to fight for a fair wage for corps members, who are doing critical work in their communities to respond to our major national and statewide challenges: COVID-19, the climate crisis, and economic uncertainty. Working in a service corps and being trained for clean energy careers should be an option for people from all walks of life, and I will keep fighting for an investment in this program on the scale and scope we need.” [Release, 6/7/2022]

“I’m excited to see these federal dollars put to good use in New Hampshire, investing in STEM education, supporting survivors of domestic violence and prioritizing sustainable solutions for our environment. And that’s just the beginning,” said Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). “AmeriCorps programs provide an array of services throughout the state by addressing a broad scope of challenges, which is why ensuring it is fully funded every year is always a top priority for me. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I’ll continue to keep its programing and the needs it provides to New Hampshire top of mind as we prepare to write next year’s government funding legislation.” [Release, 6/2/2022]

“Investing in public lands and education are two of the most effective ways to support our rural communities, and AmeriCorps excels at both.” Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) said. “These funds will help boost our state’s robust recreation economy and create opportunities for young Montanans as they enter a competitive job market.” [Release, 6/3/2022]

“AmeriCorps members play a vital role in Maryland – providing crucial assistance and care to communities across our state. This investment will help advance their mission of meeting the critical needs of Marylanders and supporting organizations that are committed to strengthening our local communities. We will continue working to support this program and secure additional federal funding to back its work for our communities for years to come,” said Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Representatives Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Dutch Ruppersberger (MD-02), John Sarbanes (MD-03), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Anthony G. Brown (MD-04), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), and David Trone (MD-06), [Release, 6/3/2022]

“I am grateful for AmeriCorps members who are willing to get in the fight to make our communities, Commonwealth, and country a better place,” said Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA). “The nearly $60 million in funding will support thousands of AmeriCorps members pursuing their passion for public service in our communities.” [Release, 6/7/2022]

“For over 50 years, AmeriCorps has connected young people to service opportunities across the country, improving lives, strengthening communities, and fostering civic engagement. I am thrilled to announce that Massachusetts will receive almost $60 million in funding from AmeriCorps – we’re committed to meeting this moment of historic challenge with historic action and investing in the volunteers and service work of AmeriCorps is an important piece of our recovery,” said Assistant Speaker Katherine Clark (MA-05).

“Students in Memphis benefit from the dedicated work of AmeriCorps members and this continued funding will assure the students can thrive. I am pleased to see this investment in our children’s futures and thank all AmeriCorps members for their service,” said Representative Steve Cohen (TN-09) [Release, 5/31/2022]

"AmeriCorps members are making an impact every day in our Commonwealth, and I welcome the news of this nearly $60 million in funding," said Representative Bill Keating (MA-09). "In Southeastern Massachusetts, we have seen firsthand the work that AmeriCorps members are doing in our communities through the AmeriCorps Legal Advocates of Massachusetts at South Coastal Counties Legal Services and the AmeriCorps Cape Cod Program run by the County of Barnstable. I look forward to continuing to join my colleagues in the Massachusetts Delegation in supporting AmeriCorps to ensure the continued success of programs like these across the Commonwealth.” [Release, 6/7/2022]

“AmeriCorps volunteers here in New Hampshire provide critical support for our communities, especially as we continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Representative Annie Kuster (NH-02) “I’m pleased to see more than $4.6 million in federal funding heading to our state to support the important work of AmeriCorps members and lift up our communities. I look forward to seeing the positive impact of these resources for New Hampshire and I will continue working to support service programs like AmeriCorps.” [Release, 6/2/2022]

“Since its formation in 1993, AmeriCorps has engaged hundreds of thousands of Americans in productive national service each year, and its programming has improved the lives of countless others,” said Representative Stephen Lynch. “This investment from the FY22 AmeriCorps State and National Grant Competition will be put to great use in the Eighth Congressional District, where I am pleased to announce that $6 million will be directed towards key education and public health programming by Jumpstart for Young Children and United Way of Massachusetts Bay.” [Release, 6/7/2022]

“Not only does national service make America stronger, it builds character and a sense of purpose along the way. My own service as a Marine shaped who I am today,” said Representative Seth Moulton (MA-06). “But national service isn’t just about joining the military. AmeriCorps offers all Americans an opportunity to make our country better in different ways. I’m thrilled that Massachusetts is receiving almost $60 million in funding from AmeriCorps. Each dollar spent will benefit our community for years to come.” [Release, 6/7/2022]

“AmeriCorps volunteers represent the best of our community,” said Representative Richard E. Neal (MA-01). “The program assists organizations across our state and country to improve the lives and livelihoods of people from all walks of life. This funding will ensure that more lives are impacted by their terrific service.” [Release, 6/7/2022]

“AmeriCorps fosters a strong spirit of public service in younger generations and plays an instrumental role in improving the lives of Granite Staters,” said Representative Chris Pappas (NH-01). “These grants will support volunteers who engage in vital work like environmental conservation, education, and more across New Hampshire. I’m pleased to see these funds will expand AmeriCorps programs, spur economic growth, and strengthen civic engagement in our community.” [Release, 6/2/2022]

“The AmeriCorps grant will allow the Commonwealth to continue its long-standing tradition of service and volunteerism,” said Representative Ayanna Pressley (MA-07). “From Somerville to Boston, this valuable funding will help the Massachusetts 7thtackle inequities in education and uplift our neighbors in community and across the nation. I am proud to join my colleagues in the Massachusetts delegation to deliver these funds.” [Release, 6/7/2022]

“As Co-Chair of the National Service Caucus, I’m pleased to see over $14.3M heading to NC from @AmeriCorps! These necessary funds will be used to support 479 AmeriCorps members throughout the state and the service projects they provide to our communities,” said Representative David E. Price (NC-04). [Tweet, 6/10/2022]

“Thanks in part to funding from the American Rescue Plan & FY22 Appropriations, 

@AmeriCorps will award Washington state $22,665,213 in funding to tackle some of our region's most pressing challenges, including economic opportunity, environmental stewardship, and education.,” said Rep. Adam Smith (WA-09). [Tweet, 6/8/2022]

"Massachusetts has a strong tradition of young adults stepping up to serve their communities. This AmeriCorps grant funding will enable many organizations across the Commonwealth to continue promoting local community service,” said Representative Lori Trahan (MA-03). “I’m thrilled that some of this funding will once again go to TerraCorps, a Lowell-based organization that supports land trusts, urban agriculture, and food justice nonprofits. Programs like these engage our communities in environmentally conscious practices and are central to preserving our environment for future generations." [Release, 6/7/2022]

Nonprofit and Other Leaders

“Without this funding from AmeriCorps, and without the support of our senators really getting behind it, we wouldn't be seeing this amount of funding coming into West Virginia,” said Hawley Carlson, executive director of Volunteer West Virginia. [Release, 6/2/2022]

“The Be Well Fox Valley AmeriCorps Program allowed us to bring a highly skilled professional to our organization,” said Cassie Faulks, director of community and government relations at Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin. “She brought many new ideas to our team and is a vital member of our organization.” [Release, 5/31/2022]

“This is great news! @AmeriCorps members play an essential role in our #CDFI and the communities they serve. This federal grant is an excellent opportunity for @LISC_AmeriCorp to deepen its impact. #NationalService #AmeriCorpsWorks,” said Denise Scott Local, Initiatives Support Corporation president. [Tweet, 6/8/2022]

“AmeriCorps members bring a unique perspective, skill set and life experiences to our region,” said Vaya Jones, social determinants of health coordinator at ThedaCare. “The partnership with AmeriCorps supports our teams and allows us to continue understanding each person’s needs and provide comprehensive care focused on health and well-being.” [Release, 5/31/2022]

“The Kennebec Valley Community Action Program is delighted to continue our AmeriCorps program, embracing diversity, education, and collaboration to support young learners. This opportunity, through KVCAP and the Educare Lab School & Learning Hub, creates an expanded approach to build career pathways in early care and education, in partnership with the Maine Department of Education. It will increase much needed education technicians in childcare settings, Head Start programs, and public schools. We are grateful for the support of this funding,” said Suzanne Walsh, CEO of KVCAP. [Release, 6/1/2022]

“Thank you @AmeriCorps for your continued support of @TeachForAmerica and service programs across the country. It’s making a difference in the lives of young people every day. #AmeriCorpsWorks,” said Elisa Villanueva Beard, Teach for America CEO. [Tweet, 6/7/2022]

Follow AmeriCorps on Twitter for additional highlights from elected officials, state and local government leaders and nonprofit organizations.