September 2026
Welcome to Program Year 2026-27, we're so glad you're here! Yesterday, September 1, was our first day of the new year - over 70 members started service across the state, with more than a third returning for another term with WSC or WRC. We look forward to even more members starting their AmeriCorps term in the coming weeks.
Whether you're new to our programs or not, please keep reading for important dates and resources to help you have the best year!
 Starting Off the Right Way
Members, we know that the first few weeks of service are an exciting and busy time. In our continued effort to support you during the length of your term, we have created a Life After AmeriCorps Checklist that breaks down top priorities for a successful term of service, dividing your service term into a timeline and providing actionable recommendations. While the title may be "Life After AmeriCorps", there are some things you can do in your first month that will help you start off on the right foot.
Plus, look through our Service Resource Kit for budget-friendly options and programs that may help you save money during your term.
 October Member Training Event
Members and site staff, please mark your calendars: our annual training event for all WSC and WRC members will be October 27, 28 and 29 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day. Returning members are required to attend to as well.
The event will be live and hosted online. Keep an eye out for an email coming soon from our Training Specialist, Bryce Bateman, with more details.
 Site Staff Lunch & Learns
Site staff, we're contining our monthly online Lunch & Learns this year - and based on your feedback, we're adding an afternoon session!
Our first Lunch & Learn will be on September 9, as a "Site Staff 101" kickoff to the new year. First session will be 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., and second session from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Feel free to attend one or both - you don't need to register in advance.
Mark your calendar and join us here on the 9th. We look forward to seeing you!
 NEW! Site Staff Checklist
Site staff: last year, you let us know you would like a one-page checklist with important links and reminders all in one place. We are excited to share our new Annual Site Staff Checklist. You’ll find critical information like:
- routine information and links for time sheets and trainings
- reporting and evaluation due dates and links
- Day of Service dates, Story of Service reminders, and more.
We hope this new resource will make it easier to support your members and meet program deadlines. Please let us know if you have additional suggestions for the checklist!
Site staff, new this year will be two AmeriCorps-related trainings created especially for those who provide daily supervision of AmeriCorps members.
These trainings are online through On3Learn, and can be completed at your own pace, but must be done by December 15.
More details and instructions will be sent out later this month.
Every year, Washington Service and Reading Corps members participate in three Days of Service. On Days of Service, members participate in special service projects at their service site or in their communities. Our first Day of Service is Make a Difference Day on Saturday, October 24.
Make a Difference Day was established in 1992 by USA Weekend magazine and the Points of Light nonprofit organization. The vision was to create a day for people to unite to make a difference through community service.
Are you a WSC site that is planning to host a service event for Make a Difference Day? Do you need volunteers? Let us know, and we’ll promote your project on our website and social media platforms.
Are you a member who needs a place to serve for Make a Difference Day?
- Check our website frequently for an updated list of WSC sites hosting projects
- Contact your local food bank about service opportunities
- Search GetConnected and VolunteerMatch for opportunities near you
- Can’t find an event near you? Consider remote service opportunities, making food for someone in need, or gathering friends for a neighborhood cleanup.
Save the dates for future special Days of Service:
MLK Day of Service | Monday, January 18
Earth Day of Service | Thursday, April 22
 Site staff, if you're still in the process of recruiting and enrolling members, please note the due dates we have listed on our website for each start date. Completing steps by these due dates will help ensure that your member-applicant starts on the date you'd like them to. If required steps are not completed by the dates we provide to you, your applicant will be moved to the next planned start date.
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