National Service in the News for Wednesday, April 5, 2017 through Thursday, April 6, 2017.
17 City and County leaders recognize
critical role of AmeriCorps and Senior Corps in local communities across Nevada
The Fernely Reporter (NV), April 4, 2017
On April 4, 17 mayors and county leaders across the State of Nevada, including
Fernley Mayor Roy Edgington, recognized the impact AmeriCorps and Senior Corps
programs have made on their local communities. Given the many social needs
facing communities – and the fiscal constraints facing government at all levels
– cities and counties are increasingly turning to national service as a
cost-effective strategy to meet local needs. The fifth annual Mayor, County,
and Tribal Recognition Day for National Service is a nationwide bipartisan
effort to recognize the positive impact of national service, thank those who
serve, and encourage citizens to give back to their communities.
Mayors and County Officials Celebrate
Mayors Day of Recognition for National Service
WDEF-TV (TN), April 4, 2017
Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke and Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger today
joined more than 4,000 other mayors and county officials across the country for
the fifth annual Mayors Day of Recognition for National Service. The Foster
Grandparents Program; the Retired Senior Volunteer Program and Americorps
celebrated the fifth annual event. The goal for Mayors Day is to show the
impact that Senior Corps and other national service programs are having in
local communities. They all work with the Partnership for Women and Children.
Volunteers are the key.
Lebanon honors its volunteer heroes
The Lebanon Daily News (PA), April 4, 2017
If you’ve spent any time volunteering in Lebanon County, the names Priscilla
Gonya, Millie Hernandez and Lillian Morales are probably familiar ones. If
you’ve ever received help from any of the county’s numerous social service
agencies it’s a good chance you’ve met one or all of these women, who have
dedicated their lives to helping the needy. Gonya, Hernandez, and Morales were
among dozens of local residents honored Tuesday for their volunteering efforts
at Mayor and County Recognition Day. It's a nationwide initiative started five
years ago by the Corporation for National and Community Services, in
partnership with the National League of Cities, the National Association of
Counties and Cities of Service.
Gsell delivers Meals on Wheels for national
service recognition day
The Daily News (MI), April 5, 2017
More than 4,0lack00 mayors and county officials nationwide participated Tuesday
in events to observe Mayor and County Recognition Day for National Service. In
observance of the day and the service volunteers provide, Genesee County
Manager Jay Gsell for several years has ridden with a Meals on Wheels driver to
deliver meals to the elderly or homebound. “I know how valuable this program
is, and I’ve done this in the past with William Sheron,” Gsell said. Gsell this
year rode with Ray Motyka, who has been a volunteer driver for 16 years. “This
is so fulfilling,” Motyka said.
City officials recognized volunteerism and
community service
KOTA-TV (SD), April 4, 2017
More than 4,500 local leaders across the nation are Observing National Service
Recognition Day. Including programs such as Vista, Senior Companion and
AmeriCorps, volunteerism in Rapid City totaled more than 180,000 hours last
year. Mayor Steve Allender signed a proclamation recognizing the high level of
volunteerism and community service in the city.
"Streets and houses and businesses and people can make a city, but
volunteers can make a community," said Allender.
York
City celebrates national service volunteers
The York Dispatch (PA), April 4,
2017
York City Mayor Kim Bracey joined more than 4,500 U.S. elected officials and
tribal leaders Tuesday in declaring April 4 as Mayor and County Recognition Day
for National Service. Around two dozen volunteers from local service
organizations met in York City Hall on Tuesday to hear the mayor’s
proclamation, which lauded volunteers for their commitment, dedication and patriotism.
Bracey thanked volunteers from the American Red Cross of York and Adams
Counties, the Community Progress Council’s Foster Grandparents Program, York
Habitat for Humanity, United Way of York and Crispus Attucks YouthBuild, among
other organizations.
La
Crosse Mayor honors those serving their communities
WKB-TV (WI), April 4, 2017
La Crosse's Mayor is joining thousands across the country Tuesday in
celebrating those serving their communities. Mayor Tim Kabat focused on the
efforts of the nonprofit Coulee Region RSVP for the fifth annual Mayors Day of
Recognition for National Service. The group is committed to providing services
to La Crosse and Monroe counties through collaboration with other nonprofits. Kabat
finished today's recognition by proclaiming April 4th as National Service
Mayor's Day in La Crosse.
Volunteers honored on Service Recognition
Day
The Inter Mountain (WV), April 5, 2017
Members of city and county government came together Tuesday to ink a
proclamation recognizing groups and individuals who volunteer the in the
community. Elkins Mayor Van T. Broughton, Randolph County Commission President
Mike Taylor and Randolph County Commissioner Mark Scott all signed
proclamations naming Tuesday as National Service Recognition Day which
encouraged residents to “recognize the positive impact of national service in
our county; to thank those who serve; and to find ways to give back to their
communities.”
Mayor Kabat recognizes 'Mayors Day for National Service'
WXOW-TV (WI), April 4, 2017
La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat joined more than 4,000 other mayors and county
officials for the 5th Annual Mayors Day of Recognition for National
Service. The bipartisan effort works to highlight the positive impact of
national service and to thank those who serve, while encouraging all citizens
to give back. "It really boggles the mind to think how much less our
community would be without groups like AmeriCorps and RSVP. They're in schools,
they're working with companies with non-profits with government offices. Really
their impact is felt all throughout the whole region," said Mayor Tim
Kabat.
How
local representatives were honored on National Service Recognition Day
WBNG-TV (NY), April 4. 2017
Broome County officials recognized representatives from various services
programs Tuesday in honor of National Service Recognition Day. Representatives
from Rural Health Service Corps, Senior Companionship Program, Foster
Grandparent Program, and AmeriCorps VISTA were among those in attendance. Broome
County Executive Jason Garnar presented them with certificates and thanked them
for helping the community become a better place. "It means a lot, you know
for myself and also all the other AmeriCorps members that I work alongside.
It's nice to see that the community understands the difference we make,"
AmeriCorps VISTA Rural Poverty Educator Caroline Russo said.
Hundreds
of Las Vegas volunteers recognized for service
KSVN-TV (NV), April 4, 2017
Hundreds of locals who volunteer their time to help solve problems in the
community were recognized Tuesday morning. Mayor Carolyn Goodman joined more
than 4,500 other elected officials across the country proclaiming Tuesday as
the National Day of Service. A lot of attention was placed on AmeriCorps and
one of its programs called VISTA. VISTA stands for Volunteers In Service To
America. Participants commit a full year at non-profits or local government
agencies to help them solve local issues like veteran homelessness and community
revitalization. One man who works with VISTA says volunteering has a big
impact.
Allender
praises volunteers on National Recognition Day
KNBN-TV (SD), April 5, 2017
City officials nationwide participated in Mayors Day of Recognition for
National Service, including Rapid City Mayor Steve Allender. Allender was one
of 4,700 other mayors who signed a proclamation recognizing the community's
spirit of volunteerism during his recognition ceremony. The mayor said people
make a city, but volunteers make a community. Representatives from the Black
Hills Senior Companion Program, Black Hills Retired Senior Volunteer Program+,
AmeriCorps State Program, and AmeriCorps Vista program were present. Morgan
VonHaden, the community school coordinator for North Rapid Schools, said she
sees firsthand the effect volunteers have in the community.
Nez
Perce Tribe Declares Tuesday as National Service Recognition Day
DailyFly.com (ID), April 3, 2017
The Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee recently approved a resolution
declaring tomorrow "National Service Recognition Day." The day will acknowledge and thank all of
those individuals who serve their communities and to also encourage others to
become involved in service to their communities as well. The Nez Perce Tribe
has benefited from the work that has been done throughout the Nez Perce
Reservation by groups such as AmeriCorps and intends to use the day to
spotlight the positive impact of these types of national service.
Henderson Mayor Recognizes National Service
WTVW-TV (KY), April 4, 2017
Mayor Steve Austin joined city and county leaders across the country Tuesday in
highlighting the impact of AmeriCorps and Senior Corps in Henderson. Mayor
Austin proclaimed April 4 National Service and Recognition Day for AmeriCorps
and Senior Corps member in the Henderson area. The activities in Henderson
are part of a national bipartisan effort to recognize the positive impact of
national service, thank those who serve, and to encourage citizens to give back.
Rapid
City mayor recognizes volunteers
KEVN-TV (SD), April 4, 2017
Rapid City Mayor Steve Allender recognized a number of local volunteer groups Tuesday
as part of National Service Recognition Day. Mayor Allender did that
at a ceremony in the city council chambers Tuesday morning. Groups like Senior
Companions, RSVP, AmeriCorps and VISTA were there for the proclamation. Mayor
Allender says, "They make an impact because our seniors have a need to
contribute. And they have so much to give and there's a great need in our
community like everywhere else. It's a good match. We have the right people to
volunteer and provide the right services."
Volunteers turn out to help on national day
for recognizing service
The News Sentinel (IN), April 5, 2017
Youth volunteers from McMillen Park Community Center used a day of their spring
break to help spread mulch at Memorial Park as part of the local observance
Tuesday of Mayors and County Recognition Day for National Service. The youth
were joined by volunteers from Easter Seals ARC and from the Hobson House sober
living community. About 4,000 mayors were holding similar events Tuesday around
the nation, Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry told volunteers in the Memorial Park
pavilion before they started their work.
National
Day of Service recognized locally
KLKN-TV (NE), April 4, 2017
Nearly 4,000 city and county leaders were recognized across the nation,
and Lincoln held a ceremony of their own for this day with groups like
AmeriCorps, SeniorCorps and others. Local and county leaders highlighted the
impact of groups like AmeriCorps and SeniorCorps, and the help they give to
challenges facing Lincoln. It was all part of the Mayor and County Day of
Recognition for National Service. Chair of The Board of Commissioners, Todd
Witgen, believes these services can be taken for granted at times. that's why
this day is a good reminder. "A lot of people don't understand how
important Americorps and SeniorCorps are to the everyday lives that they live.
And so they overlook it, frequently, and that's why it's important to have days
like this," says Witgen.
Dubuque mayor to fight to keep AmeriCorps
funding
KCRG-TV (IA), April 4, 2017
Dubuque Mayor Roy Buol says he'll fight to keep federal funding for the
AmeriCorps program that President Trump has proposed cutting. More than 400
people do work for the city through AmeriCorps. Buol says they provide a
service that the city otherwise doesn't have the budget for. He talked about
the city's reliance on AmeriCorps workers during an awards ceremony on Tuesday.
He said Dubuque is certainly not alone in worrying about the future of the
program.
Town
volunteers honored at Weymouth breakfast
The Patriot Ledger (MA), April 4,
2017
Mayor Robert Hedlund and Norfolk County Commissioner Joseph Shea honored 63
Weymouth-area volunteers on Tuesday morning as part of a nationwide day of
recognition. The honorees, part of the Norfolk County RSVP Volunteer Program,
met at town hall for an appreciation ceremony and reception. “Any person who
takes the time from their busy schedule to volunteer... is so important,” Shea
said. “I want to salute all of you for doing that very, very important job of
giving to your neighbors.” The RSVP program is made up of volunteers who are
ages 55 and older and is part of the nationwide Senior Corps network.
Volunteers honored at Mayor and County
Recognition Day of Service in Savannah
The Savannah Morning News (GA), April 4, 2017
About 10 months ago, Janae Robinson decided that she wanted to dedicate her
life to serving communities in need. The University of Georgia graduate was
contemplating joining the Peace Corps, when she decided to give attention to a
community she knew needed it the most —her own in Savannah. “… I realized that
I had learned so much about other communities and cities that need help across
the world — but didn’t know as much about the communities here in America,” she
said. “I wanted to stay here and learn about the community that I’m in before
traveling the rest of the world.”
Mayors Day of Recognition for National
Service
Press Release (IN), April 4, 2017
Mayor Tom Henry is joining mayors across the country for the fifth annual
Mayors Day of Recognition for National Service today, a nationwide bipartisan
effort that highlights the impact of national service in tackling city
problems. This day gives our community an opportunity to celebrate our nation’s
unsung heroes--citizens who volunteer not for recognition but who use their
time and talents to help solve community challenges and make cities like Fort
Wayne a better and brighter place for everyone. This year, Mayor Henry attended
a clean-up at Memorial Park to thank volunteers for their service.
Volunteers
Honored during Annual Mayor and County Day of Recognition of National Service
WDJT-TV (WI), April 4, 2017
Organizations that give back to communities around the world are being recognized
today for their work in Milwaukee County. Americorps and SeniorCorps members
were honored during the annual Mayor and County Day of Recognition of National
Service. It was held Tuesday morning at "Manpower Group"
headquarters. Service members have worked on projects in more than 250 places
in the country. There are nearly 12,000 Americorps and Senior Corps volunteers
in Milwaukee County.
Mayor’s Day
The El Dorado News-Times (AR), April 5, 2017
RSVP volunteers, along with El Dorado Mayor Frank Hash, volunteered at the Red
Cross in El Dorado for Mayor’s Day 2017 on Tuesday. On this day, mayors and
county officials hold public events to highlight the value of national service
to the nation’s cities and counties. Last year, 3,539 elected officials
representing more than 178 million Americans participated in the fourth-annual
Mayor and County Recognition Day for National Service. The initiative is being
led by the National League of Cities, National Association of Counties, Cities
of Service and the Corporation for National and Community Service.
Mayor and County Recognition Day for
National Service
The Rolla Daily News (MO), April 5, 2017
This special day unites local leaders across the country to spotlight the
impact of national service and to honor those who serve. The nation’s mayors
and county officials are looking at cost-effective strategies to address local
needs through the support of the Corporation for National and Community Service
(CNCS), a federal government agency. The CNCS website says “we invest in
thousands of nonprofit and faith-based groups that are making a difference
across the country. We are AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, the Social Innovation
Fund, the Volunteer Generation Fund, and more. We serve, we build, and we make
an impact that changes lives and communities.”
AmeriCorps Recognition
The Courier (IA), April 4, 2017
More than 133 mayors and county leaders across Iowa are recognizing the impact
AmeriCorps and Senior Corps programs have made on their communities. Cities and
counties increasingly are turning to national service as a cost-effective
strategy to meet local needs. The fifth annual Mayor, County, and Tribal Recognition
Day for National Service on Tuesday was a nationwide bipartisan effort to
recognize the positive impact of national service, thank those who serve and
encourage citizens to give back to their communities.
Selfless
service brings mayor to Kennedy-Donovan Center
The South Coast Today (MA), April 5, 2017
One step into the Kennedy-Donovan Center on Hawthorn Street is all it takes to
feel the optimism in the building. Hearty laughs fill the hallways and bright smiles
light up the classrooms. In one particular classroom, students with physical
and mental challenges were preparing handwritten letters with help from the
teachers and volunteers from the Foster Grandparent Program through Coastline
Elderly Services in anticipation of Mayor Jon Mitchell’s arrival Tuesday
afternoon. “I hope I’m not interrupting,” Mitchell said when he entered the
classroom. Students threw their hands up in excitement, clapping and hollering
at their guest’s arrival. Mitchell responded with similar excitement, sharing
laughs, exchanging high fives and hugs as he made his way through the
classroom.
Volunteers recognized at Lafayette City
Hall
KACT-TV (LA), April 4, 2017
Volunteers from throughout Lafayette are being recognized for their
contributions to the community. The
event at Lafayette City Hall recognized volunteers with the SMILE Community
Action Agency who serve as part of the National Senior Corps. About 100 people
attended the celebration.
Seniors receive volunteer awards at
recognition ceremony
The Journal News (WV), April 5, 2017
Mayor George Karos presented recognition awards to volunteers at Berkeley
Senior Services center on Tuesday. The event was hosted by the Retired Senior
Volunteers Program and this years recipients were nominated for their extensive
efforts within the community. The event was also a celebration to congratulate
Mayor Karos for his re-election this term. “The Corporation for National and Community
Service shares a priority with the
mayors nationwide to improve its citizens, improve lives and strengthen
communities,” Karos said. “I couldn’t be doing the things that I do without the
volunteers in this community. Not only volunteers, but all the workers
throughout the county and the state. I just want to say thank you to each and
every one of you.”
Mayor
Landrieu Recognizes National Service Participants for Contributions to New
Orleans
Press Release, April 5, 2017
Today, as part of the fifth annual Mayors and County Day of Recognition for
National Service, Mayor Mitch Landrieu highlighted the value of national
service and the positive impact of local AmeriCorps and Senior Corps members in
the New Orleans community. Additionally, Mayor Landrieu discussed the impact of
proposed federal budget cuts on AmeriCorps’ and Senior Corps’ service to America.
“Today, we salute four distinguished volunteers who have given their time,
energy and service to make New Orleans better. Without the dedication and
impact of our volunteers, New Orleans’ progress would not be as strong. I am
grateful for the role our volunteers and service organizations play in creating
the New Orleans of our dreams. Together, they are showing the nation what is
possible through giving back.” said Mayor Landrieu.
Mayor
participates in Day for National Service
The Spencer Daily Reporter (KY), April 5, 2017
Spencer Mayor Reynold Peterson volunteered Wednesday with local Literacy
Partners supporters as a part of the Mayor and County Recognition Day for
National Service. The Literacy Partners program, sponsored by the RSVP
volunteer program at Iowa Lakes Community College, involved local volunteers
who sorted 1,310 books which will reach 1,200 children in Spencer. "Well
this is a great event. The young children in all the area schools will benefit
from all these donated books to them. RSVP has been coordinating volunteer
efforts in the community for years, I am very excited to partner with the
Mayor's National Day of Service with the Spencer RSVP to provide service to the
community. We have been doing this for several years now and it's always a
great time and it's always a nice way for individuals to give back to the
community," Peterson said.
Day for National Service Recognized
The Stuttgart Daily Leader (AR), April 5, 2017
The Mayor and County Recognition Day for National Service was recognized to
thank those who serve their communities during the Stuttgart City Council
meeting Tuesday, with Stuttgart Mayor J.W. Green signing a proclamation.
Southeast Arkansas Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) members, along
with RSVP Director and city council member Norma Strabala were on hand for the
signing. AmeriCorp and Senior Corps serve their communities in a number of
different ways throughout the year. The initiative is lead by the National
League of Cities, the National Association of Counties, Cities of Service and
the Corporation for National and Community Service.
Trent,
Blevins Participates in County Day of Recognition for National Service
Morehead State University (KY), April 6, 2017
Morehead Mayor Jim Tom Trent and Rowan County Judge-Executive Walter Blevins
joined more than 1,760 elected officials from all 50 states and the District of
Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico stood together in support of AmeriCorps and Senior
Corps and VISTA Programs. Trent and Blevins participated in a national day of
recognition Tuesday, April 4, to highlight the impact of national service in
their cities and thank individuals who serve. Together, the elected officials
represent more than 110 million citizens or one-third of all Americans. County
Day of Recognition for National Service is designed to spotlight the impact of
national service and thank those who serve.
Organizations
recognized for making a difference locally
WEAU-TV (WI), April 4, 2017
Local organizations are being recognized for making a difference in our
community Tuesday. It’s all because of Recognition Day for National Service in
Eau Claire. City and county officials met with local members to discuss
community impact through national service. One member says AmeriCorps volunteers
cover a wide demographic. "A lot are kind of college age just because it's
a great way to kind of figure out yourself and see where you want to go, but
it's definitely not just for that demographic," said AJ Leiden, AmeriCorps
member.
Saluting
Unpaid Volunteers
The Cleveland Daily Banner (TN), April 5, 2017
The mayors of Cleveland, Bradley County and Benton came together to meet with
the current VISTA cohort at the offices of United Way of the Ocoee Region on
Tuesday morning. Gathered together, the group took the opportunity to dialogue
about the various issues seen throughout the area, discussing experiences and
ideas on how to improve the situations of the less fortunate. Operating out of
the United Way’s AmeriCorps VISTA program, a total of 38 VISTA members serve at
21 organizations with a focus on education, healthy futures and economic
opportunity.
Carbon
volunteers honored for community service
The Times News (PA), April 5, 2017
Local do-gooders came together at Lehighton’s Trinity Lutheran church to
celebrate volunteer efforts for Mayor and County Recognition Day for National
Service on Tuesday. Members of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program were
commended for their community-oriented efforts by Carbon County Commissioner
Thomas J. Gerhard. “They’re extremely important to the community,” Gerhard said
of RSVP and other volunteers. “I respect everyone in the room today who is
working in the food pantries, working at the hospitals as greeters. The
numerous things that these people do, volunteering their time and talent to
services, makes them feel better as a person. I know it makes me feel good when
I volunteer my time. Giving back to your community, that’s what volunteering is
all about.”
National
Service Recognition Day
The Spencer Magnet (KY), April 5,
2017
Spencer County Judge-Executive John Riley, signs a proclamation last week recognizing
April 9 as National Service Recognition Day. With him are Alex Mattingly, left,
and Courtney Cox, who are currently serving at the Taylorsville Elementary
Family Resource Center as literacy tutors through AmeriCorps.
VIDEO:
AmeriCorps national service recognition
The Telegraph Herald (IA), April 6, 2017
Mary Bridget Corken-Deutsch, AmeriCorps program director for Dubuque, discusses
the work that people involved with Corporation for National and Community
Service do in the Dubuque area.
Pensacola
volunteers honored for serving the community
WART-TV (FL), April 5, 2017
April is National Volunteer Recognition Month. Political and community leaders
gathered on the lawn at Pensacola City Hall to say 'thank you'. They paid
tribute to the countless individuals who give selflessly of their time, talents
and resources to make a difference in the lives of others. Wendy Spencer,
formerly the CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service under
President Obama and the current president of Leadership Florida, was a special
guest.
National Service Recognition Day
The Capital Journal (SD), April 5, 2017
Members of the Central South Dakota Retired Senior Volunteer Program gather at
a luncheon at the Ramkota Conference Center on Tuesday, Apr. 4. The luncheon
was to celebrate the accomplishments of the organization. Pierre Mayor Laurie
Gill and Fort Pierre Mayor Gloria Hanson both proclaimed April 4, 2017 as the
“National Service Recognition Day.”
WNY Volunteers worry federal budget with
cut their programs
WIVB-TV (NY), April 4, 2017
The looming threat of federal budget cuts is becoming very real to leaders of
programs helping the poor and elderly. The volunteers who make the programs
happen are being recognized for the Mayor’s Day of Service. Volunteers with
the Foster Grandparents put on through Catholic Charities was just one of
the organizations celebrating at the Mayors’ Day of Service. But behind the
cheers and awards given out for a years worth of volunteer service, is a real
fear. Oswaldo Mestre says the president wants to get rid of the corporation for
national and community service, including its signature AmeriCorps program.
Community
volunteers honored during local event
NBC 25 News (MI), April 4, 2017
The Flint mayor's office and Genesee County Commissioners came together to
honor nearly 400 local Americorps and Senior Corps members at the GCCARD
building Tuesday. At the event the city of Flint and Genesee County launched
"Genesee County Volunteer Month" as part of the nationwide efforts to
shine a light on the positive impact the national service has. "Volunteerism
in the city of Flint is what makes this city and this county great. We have a
wide array of organizations that really benefit from the volunteerism and
individuals here in the city," said county commissioner Bryant Nolden.
108
Florida Leaders Recognize National Service
The Foster Folly News (FL), April 4, 2017
The fifth annual Mayor, County, and Tribal Recognition Day for National Service
is a nationwide bipartisan effort to recognize the positive impact of national
service, thank those who serve, and encourage citizens to give back to their
communities. Across the country, 4,520 elected officials representing more than
194 million Americans will participate.
Volunteers
receive acknowledgement for service in ABQ
The Albuquerque Journal (NM), April
5, 2017
Fourteen-year-old Donovan Smith has seen the face of homelessness – and it
looks a lot like him. That’s why he is giving back. In just the past year,
Donovan made and donated 10,329 bars of soap to homeless shelters and
organizations that help the homeless. Since 2014, he has made and donated more
than 50,000 bars of soap. Several years ago, he and his family were homeless
and found refuge at Henderson House, an Albuquerque shelter for homeless women
veterans and their families operated by the YWCA.
Letter:
Thank you to volunteers who help our communities
The Meadville Tribune (PA), April
4, 2017
Service to others is a hallmark of the American character and central to how we
meet our challenges in our local communities. Increasingly, communities are
turning to national service and volunteerism as a cost-effective strategy to
meet their needs. National service participants increase the impact of the organizations
they serve, both through their direct service and by managing additional
volunteers. National service represents a unique public-private partnership
that invests in community solutions and leverages non-federal resources to
strengthen community impact and increase the return on taxpayer dollars. We
thank our local RSVP volunteers for their effort and join local mayors and the
Crawford County commissioners, who through proclamation rec9 pognize April 4 as
National Service Recognition Day.
Five
proclamations to be issued at Pocatello City Council Meeting
AreaInfo.net (ID), April 5, 2 017
Five proclamations are set to be issued by Mayor Brian Blad at Thursday’s
meeting of the Pocatello City Council. The second will establish April 6 as
National Service Recognition Day. The proclamation was requested by AmeriCorps,
as well as Senior Corps, and “askscitizens to take time to show their
appreciation and support for those whose efforts make this community a better
place in which to live.” The decree will be read by Councilwoman Heidi Adamson
and accepted by Tammy Barlett.
Volunteers repair American River Parkway
after storms damage trail
KCRA-TV (CA), April 4, 2017
Big repairs began Monday along the American River Parkway Trail, a 23-mile
pathway that traverses from Discovery Park in Sacramento to the Nimbus Dam Fish
Hatchery in Gold River. The parkway is used by hundreds of bikers, runners and
horse enthusiasts every day, but winter storms have caused serious damage along
the American River. More than a half-dozen young adults were doing maintenance
along the trail Tuesday, but they are not your everyday work crew -- they come
from across the U.S. “We got Massachusetts, Ohio, two from North Carolina,
Wisconsin, Wyoming and Philadelphia,” AmeriCorps team leader Sabrina Lemar
said.
Montana Supreme Court justices defend legal
aid funding
KBZK-TV (MT), April 5, 2017
The seven current justices of the Montana Supreme Court, along with eight
retired members, are calling on Congress to continue funding two groups that
help provide legal aid for people who can’t afford it. The justices sent a
letter this week to Montana's U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Jon Tester, asking
them to support maintaining current funding levels for the Legal Services Corporation
and the Corporation for National and Community Service. President Trump’s
budget proposal, released last month, eliminates federal money for both
agencies. The Legal Services Corporation funds civil legal aid for almost 2
million low-income Americans. That can include help with everything from
divorces and parenting plans to evictions, bankruptcies and debt collection.
Crews
work on to Clear American River Parkway Trail Following Stormy Winter
KTXL-TV (CA), April 6, 2017
Weeks of unrelenting rain this winter damaged much of the dirt trail along the
American River between Discovery Park and the Nimbus Fish Hatchery. Maintenance
crews have spent weeks clearing the area to give runners and horses their trail
back, but it's a lot of work. Debris hangs on trees, branches block a dirt
trail by the American River -- a once clear path now a mess. "I've been on
a lot of trails, and I've never seen something as bad as this," said
Sabrina Lemar with AmeriCorps. Storms slammed Sacramento for weeks this winter.
As the rain fell, the American River rose. High water levels damaged the
30-mile stretch of equestrian and hiking trail between Discovery Park and the
Nimbus Fish Hatchery.
High-needs
schools are training grounds for top teachers
The News Journal (DE), April 4, 2017
A new program is trying not only to infuse Wilmington with a new supply of
highly effective, certified teachers but offering students from all over the
country an opportunity to serve in high-needs schools. The Great Oaks Charter
School network is one of two to partner with New York University this year to
offer an innovative teacher training program organizers say is on the forefront
of a movement to upend how educators are mentored and taught. “The research on
effective preparation of teachers is pretty clear that a practice-based, or
clinically rich practicum (…) is essential,” NYU Steinhardt’s Director of
Education Diana Turk said.
Superintendents: Cuts to AmeriCorps funding
will hurt Texas students
The Austin Americans-Statesman (TX), April 5, 2017
The White House budget recently released would eliminate the Corporation for
National and Community Service that administers AmeriCorps, a program that
provides essential, evidence-based programs that contribute significantly to
Central Texas schools. As public school superintendents, we are charged with
collectively educating and preparing 120,000 students to succeed. We are
greatly concerned that the AmeriCorps program is among federal programs
recommended for elimination by the Office of Management and Budget. To succeed
in our increasingly complex economy, our students must read and write well.
Jackson’s Mill Volunteer Workday looks to
community to help with Heritage District
The Weston News (WV), April 5, 2017
Officials with the West Virginia University Jackson’s Mill Heritage District
are searching for volunteers to help with Work Day April 22. The purpose of
Volunteer Work Day is to give the community a chance to go behind the scenes of
the area by helping with various projects, said Samantha Hartford, the
AmeriCorps member at the mill. “Even though our cabins and mills are old, they
are far from static. We are always working to preserve them so that future
generation.
Comcast offers career advice to AmeriCorps
The Jax Daily Record (FL), April 5, 2017
For the fifth year in a row, City Year Jacksonville AmeriCorps members about to
complete their year of service in Duval County Public Schools received career
advice and guidance from local Comcast senior leaders. The cable-television
provider hosts the annual career day as a part of its local and national
partnership with City Year, a nonprofit organization that places corps members
in schools in low-income communities to help reduce high drop-out rates. On
March 22 at KIPP Impact Middle School, Comcast employees offered more than 100
AmeriCorps members tips and information on career-related topics including
resume writing, interview preparation and networking. “This event is a great
example of Comcast’s continued support for City Year in Jacksonville,” said Dan
Foley, executive director of City Year Jacksonville.
Foreman woman joins National Civilian
Community Corps
The Texarkana Gazette (TX), April 4, 2017
Jamonica Shoals of Foreman, Ark., is one of 126 men and women pledging to
perform 10 months of national service as part of the Atlantic Region's 23rd
class of the National Civilian Community Corps, according to a press release. Shoals
will spend 10 months getting things done for America while strengthening
communities and developing her leadership skills," states a press release
from AmeriCorps NCCC-Atlantic Region spokeswoman Caitlin Bueller. Shoals'
team will focus on infrastructure improvement, urban and rural development,
energy conservation, disaster response and recovery efforts and environmental
work. This could include work with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity,
American Red Cross, The National Park Service and more.
Tech Tuesdays at the library
Crawford County Now (OH), April 4, 2017
Guiding Ohio Online instructor Mary Ellen Myers will be available at the
Bucyrus Public Library 5:00-7:00 pm for Tech Tuesdays. AT this time Myers will
be available for questions or computer tutoring. Patrons can call or stop by
the library. No appointment is necessary. Guiding Ohio Online is a service
provided by the State Library of Ohio and AmeriCorps. Guiding Ohio Online is a
program that helps small and medium size libraries to provide a computer
trainer for the public. Bucyrus Public Library is just one of many libraries
across the state who participate in the program.
State budget could slow down AmeriCorps
flood recovery efforts
WVVA (WV), April 4, 2017
The state budget is still being wrangled over meaning some programs are at risk
for receiving no funding, which could impact flood damaged communities. Right
now, AmeriCorps, one of the chief flood recovery organizations, is bracing
for the worst. "To lose our AmeriCorps Vistas would cripple our
ability to continue with volunteer coordination. Without volunteers, we can't
complete the work," said Kayla McCoy, Program Coordinator for Greater Greenbrier
Long-Term Recovery Committee. Vistas are paid volunteer coordinators and their
ability to round up volunteers is essential.
Local bank and college launch Brockton
non-profit incubator
The Wicked Local Brockton (MA), April 4, 2017
For non-profit organizations working on bankers’ hours, a new opportunity has
opened up downtown. On Tuesday, Stonehill College administrators and students,
HarborOne Bank leaders, elected officials, and representatives from non-profits
in the center gathered at HarborOne’s Legion Parkway location to celebrate the
launch of the new Downtown Center for Community Engagement. The center on
Legion Parkway represents a partnership between Stonehill, whose students and
staff run the center, HarborOne, which provides the space rent-free, and
non-profit organizations and community members, who operate out of the center. The
space is intended to serve as a sort of incubator for local non-profits,
coordinator Sara Morris explained.
SustainableEHC
holds rain barrel making workshop
The Shore News Today (NJ), April 5, 2017
Nearly a dozen people turned out Tuesday, April 4 to hear about the benefits of
storing rainwater for use in their gardens and to make a rain barrel. The rain
barrel making workshop was given by Mullica River Watershed Ambassador Aysia
Gandy of Linwood and hosted by SustainableEHC, the city's green team, at Egg
Harbor City Community School. Gandy, a May 2016 graduate of Stockton
University's environmental sciences program, has been an AmeriCorps watershed
ambassador since graduation.
Northeast
Michigan place-based education network explores Environmental-STEM learning
opportunities
Michigan University, April 5, 2017
Imagine students spending an entire year studying marine debris and auditing
their school cafeteria to learn about single-use versus reusable plastics – and
then getting really excited to share their results with their entire school and
community. This is just one example of a school project success story teachers
learned about during a recent conference. The Northeast Michigan Great Lakes
Stewardship Initiative (NEMIGLSI) network partnership supports place-based
stewardship education and connects schools with community partners, educators
and youth seeking to enhance their learning through Great Lakes and natural
resource stewardship projects.
LOU Reads: A Benefit Concert for Youth
Literacy takes the stage Wednesday
The Daily Mississippian (MS), April 4, 20176
This Wednesday, United Way of Oxford and Lafayette County is partnering with
Proud Larry’s to present “LOU Reads: A Benefit Concert for Youth Literacy.” The
concert will feature covers of Lou Reed and Velvet Underground songs by artists
Kate Teague, Kit Thorn, Ben Ricketts, Reid Haynie and Alex Theil. Concert
tickets are $10, and proceeds benefit UWOLC’s education programs. The United
Way of Oxford and Lafayette County has raised more than $10.5 million in the
community, supporting non-profit organizations for more than 40 years. It helps
to promote giving, advocacy and volunteerism by partnering with individuals,
organizations and workplaces.
Smithsonian Science Education Center and
Teach For America Team Up To Advance Diversity and Excellence in STEM Education
NewsDesk (DC), April 4, 2017
The Smithsonian Science Education Center (SSEC) and Teach For America (TFA)
will collaborate on a series of projects that promote increasing STEM (science,
technology, engineering and math) teacher diversity, provide novice teachers
with robust, research-based resources and pedagogical training, retain and
develop excellent science teachers in the profession, provide a support system
for TFA corps members who enter the teaching profession and provide the TFA
network with tools for developing excellence in STEM education.
Like the Cavalry, AmeriCorps
steps in
The Lakeville Journal (CT), April 5, 2017
The last day in the Northwest Corner for 12 AmeriCorps volunteers was raw and
chilly and featured an unpleasant morning wintry mix. It was Friday, March 24,
and several of the young adults could be found painting walls in the Kent
Community House basement. Throughout the morning and afternoon, some of the
crew also worked outside on Kent’s portion of the Appalachian Trail and the
trails in the East Kent Hamlet Nature Preserve.
Headwaters
Charitable Trust Brings AmeriCorps VISTA to the PA Wilds
PA Environmental Digest (PA), April 5, 2017
In 2015, Headwaters Charitable Trust, was awarded a team of AmeriCorps VISTA
Volunteers to create and implement the Living Greener Program. This program
creates opportunities that meet the needs of individuals within the context of
supporting a green economy. It is a
holistically centered approach to developing skills that enable our most vulnerable
populations to be successful in life; not only the workplace. It provides increased opportunities for
participants to gain insight and appreciation into the region’s careers and
major industries while promoting awareness of our abundant natural resources.
Lockport
resident pledges to perform 10 months of national service
The Times Weekly (IL), April 5, 2017
Jaylandt Gilmer of Lockport, IL is one of 126 men and women pledging to
perform 10 months of national service as part of the Atlantic Region’s 23rd
class of the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC), an AmeriCorps program. As
a Corps Member, Gilmer will spend 10 months getting things done for America
while strengthening communities and developing his leadership skills. Gilmer
and his team will work on a variety of projects and service areas, focusing on
infrastructure improvement, urban and rural development, energy conservation,
disaster response and recovery efforts, and environmental work.
Spread
blessings during volunteer week
The Courier Journal (KY), April 5, 2017
Geavonni Trotter-Rudolph is a mother of six children, ranging in age from 3 to
19, and although both she and her husband work, the family sometimes struggles,
and for a long time, she said, all her children were sleeping on air
mattresses. Then late last year, Ms. Trotter-Rudolph picked up two single beds
for her 13- and 14-year-olds during a December Build a Bed giveaway. JCPS’
AmeriCorps – expanding on their traditional one-day bed-building event during
our annual Give A Day Week of Service – teamed with volunteers to provide
dozens of needy families with beds, along with mattresses, pillows, bedding,
books and stuffed animals – some of the basics of a good night’s sleep for a
child.
Pateros
seeks Arbor Day help
The Omak Chronicle (WA), April 4, 2017
Volunteers are being sought to help with the Pateros Arbor Day event April 28. The
event is planned for 2:30-5 p.m. in Memorial Park. Groups wanting to
participate and volunteers wanting to help can call 509-923-2571. Activities
planned during the day include distribution of trees to fire survivors and,
later, community members, a mayor’s proclamation and speakers, children’s
activities, crafts, face painting, educational activities, native plant
installation at the Methow Memorial and information booths. Pateros High School
FFA sell grilled hamburgers and hot dogs, drinks and chips.
A
volunteer’s experience can inspire a new generation
CatholicPhilly.com (PA), April 5,
2017
The Jesuit Volunteer Corps was young — and so was I — when I first arrived at a
remote Alaskan village to teach school at a Jesuit boarding school for Native
Alaskan students as a member of the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. There were no
cellphones yet, and the internet did not exist. In the village of St. Mary’s,
and in other villages on the far-flung Alaskan tundra, there was no television
reception. A phone existed for the village — just one — and it was in one man’s
home for general use. St. Mary’s, a commercial hub, had an airport a few miles
away where jets landed a couple of times a week, weather permitting, bringing
mail and supplies. No road system existed, and still doesn’t for most of
Alaska’s Bush country.
Spring
Garden Series set for May
The Gaylord Herald Times (MI), April 4, 2017
The 18-year partnership between the Otsego County Library and the Alpine Master
Gardeners Association begins with the announcement of the 2017 Spring Garden
Series. The series presents topics of interest about all things gardening for
the people of Otsego County and beyond. The free programs are from 6-7:30 p.m.
four Tuesdays in May in the meeting room at the Otsego County Library. The
series will start May 2 with “Native Species.” Wendy Lemon with Huron Pines
AmeriCorps will discuss Northern Michigan originals and preservation of those
natives. On May 9, “Insect Appreciation” will be highlighted by Elly Maxwell of
Dow Gardens. Maxwell will discuss the difference between helpful and harmful
garden insects.
Students
benefit from Reading Partners Initiative
GTR Newspapers (OK), April 5, 2017
The spirit of high expectations in our community continues gaining momentum as
we work toward making Tulsa a premier place in Oklahoma to receive an
education. The City Council and I have established improvements in high school
graduation rates as one of our eight areas of strategic focus moving forward.
We know public education matters to Tulsans, and third-grade reading is a key
academic benchmark for students. Third-grade reading proficiency is one of the
greatest indicators of whether or not a student will graduate from high school.
We also know our third-grade reading proficiency in Tulsa is right around 50 percent.
Burmese
community plans to get into garden business
The Courier (IA), April 4, 2017
The Burmese women at a recent workshop on commercial gardening grabbed seed
packets. It was clear they are ready for the task ahead. “We’re pretty
tenacious as a group, and these women know what they’re doing in the garden
better than any of us, so it’s going to be successful,” said Bobbi Jacobs. She
helped get the workshops started last year as an AmeriCorps member and now
works at the Northeast Iowa Food Bank. Several threads wove together to make
the workshops, and plans to sell homegrown Burmese produce, a reality. A grant
to provide educational resources to expand the local produce market identified
the Burmese population — and women less likely to work outside the home — as
well-suited to gardening.
Paradise
Valley resident pledges to perform 10 months of national service
The Paradise Valley Independent (AZ), April
4, 2017
Daniel Shefner of Paradise Valley is one of 126 men and women pledging to
perform 10 months of national service as part of the Atlantic Region’s 23rd
class of the National Civilian Community Corps, an AmeriCorps program. As a
Corps Member, Mr. Shefner will spend 10 months getting things done for America
while strengthening communities and developing his leadership skills, according
to a press release. Mr. Shefner and his team will work on a variety of projects
and service areas, focusing on infrastructure improvement, urban and rural
development, energy conservation, disaster response and recovery efforts, and
environmental work.
FG
Hikers to explores new Cumberland Trail section
The Crossville Chronicle (TN),
April 5, 2017
On Friday, April 7, the Fairfield Glade Hikers will explore a new section
of the Cumberland Trail in the Catoosa Wildlife Management Area (CWMA). This
out and back, 2.4-mile hike explores a route that will eventually connect
south to Peavine Rd. and is rated easy
plus. The hike begins at Devil's Breakfast Table on the west side of Daddys Creek.
In just over a mile, the trail crosses three creeks, visits a 60-foot waterfall
and ascends 273 rock steps through a massive stone door escarpment ending at a
view point over Daddys Creek. (Yes, it's Daddys without the apostrophe on the
maps.) This section of the 300 mile Cumberland Trail was just built over the
winter by Cumberland Trail Conference staff, volunteers and an AmeriCorps crew.
Ashland
School Garden needs your support
The Ashland Daily Press (WI), April
5, 2017
Last September, I took my oldest son to his second grade school orientation and
after meeting with his teacher, we went out back to visit the garden and check
on the Three Sisters project we had been a part of planting in the previous
spring. What I saw was both shocking and disappointing. Grass past my hips
overgrew much of the garden, beds covered in weeds, over-ripe produce rotting,
parts of the garden shed dangling from wind damage sustained in July – and this
was after just four or five weeks of neglect.
Rutgers
Medical Students Care for Area Poor and Homeless
Rutgers Today (NJ), April 6, 2017
Stephanie Oh knows what it’s like to live at the poverty line subsisted on food
stamps. “This experience made me better understand the struggles people face
trying to live healthy. After graduating college with a degree in
bioengineering, she volunteered for AmeriCorps and on a limited income,” says
Oh, now a medical and doctoral student in neuroscience at Rutgers Robert Wood
Johnson Medical School. Today, Oh puts her knowledge of medicine and indigent
and homeless populations into practice as the student director of the Promise
Clinic, an initiative that provides primary health care for clients of Elijah’s
Promise Community Kitchen in New Brunswick.
Heroes Among Us: Charlie Philips
WALB-TV (GA), March 30, 2017
WALB and Montlick and Associates are recognizing the heroes among us. Each
month, we will spotlight an active duty man or woman, or veteran, whose service
for our country goes beyond the battleground. Charlie Philips served in the
Navy for a little over three years. When Charlie served in World War II, he
said he took it one day at a time, appreciating every sunrise and sunset he was
able to witness. And now, at 94 years
old, Charlie helps others see the beauty he sees in this life. His laugh, his
wisdom, and most importantly, his heart, are all reasons why Charlie is a true
hero.
Foster Grandparents of Western Nebraska
celebrates 45 years in service
NBC Nebraska (NE), April 5, 2017
This week, the Foster Grandparents program of Western Nebraska celebrated 45
years of service. Over 76 local foster grandparents serve in the Nebraska
Panhandle ranging from 55 to 79 years old. The program helps serve thousands of
children with one-on-one tutoring and mentorship. One local foster grandparents
says, they like the program because it gives them a chance to spread love. “The
foster grandparent program is awesome. Some people need a reason to get up, or
some just get up. We go to school and we help the kids with their classwork. I’ve
been doing this for 13 years already and I love it,” says Helen, Foster
Grandparent.
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