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This past year has been one of resilience, adaptability and renewed purpose for Serve Idaho.
We faced a series of challenges, including navigating changes brought about by executive orders and managing both the termination and reinstatement of AmeriCorps grants.
Each of these moments called upon us to adapt quickly, make thoughtful decisions and remain grounded in our mission.
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 Emily Straubhaur, Serve Idaho program manager
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Through it all, one constant has guided us: our commitment to serving communities across Idaho. That commitment is what has allowed us to not only persevere but grow stronger as a team and commission.
The obstacles we faced ultimately reinforced the strength of our partnerships, the dedication of our staff and commissioners and the importance of AmeriCorps and volunteerism in building a stronger Idaho.
As we look ahead, we do so with a renewed sense of optimism and excitement. The coming year will mark the finalization of our three-year state service plan, which is an important step that will lay the foundation for the future of volunteerism and AmeriCorps programs in Idaho. This plan reflects not only where we have been, but also the bold vision we hold for where we are going.
Together, we will continue to strengthen communities, foster civic engagement and empower Idahoans to make a difference.
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Student Conservation Association program highlight |
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Serve Idaho was able to observe and engage with the Student Conservation Association’s (SCA) four-person team assigned to complete service with the Deer Flat Wildlife Refuge.
The team's service trip started in Salmon, Idaho, where they participated in a training session on team dynamics, safety and certifications.
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Next, they headed to Leavenworth, Washington, for invasive weed removal in the Okanogan Wenatchee National Forest. This project included spraying, hand pulling and surveying for both invasive weeds and endangered plants. |
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Finally, the SCA team set out for Nampa, Idaho, to work with the Deer Flat Wildlife Refuge. This assignment was given to the team when the refuge received a substantial quote from a local contractor to have their welcome and informational signs removed and replaced.
Rather than delay or terminate the project, the refuge reached out to Tim Carroll — the SCA’s senior program manager of the Pacific Northwest region — about having a team help with the project.
The team was available and started working on Aug. 4 with refuge staff. Over the next week, they removed and replaced between 20-30 wooden signs and posts.
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The team’s service concluded on Aug. 11 when they packed up their supplies and took everything back to Salmon to celebrate and recognize everyone's contributions.
Serve Idaho was honored to observe the amazing work of the SCA team, Tim and refuge staff on this project.
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2025-2026 AmeriCorps programs
State and national programs focus on direct service and provide AmeriCorps members the opportunity to serve in a nonprofit organization or government agency and gain professional experience while helping their community.
The following programs are currently looking for members to serve in a variety of positions:
Find these opportunities and more on the Serve Idaho website.
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Complete this survey to sign up for an alum-specific quarterly newsletter with service opportunities, events and more.
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