AmeriCorps Celebrates 25 Years

Published on Thursday, October 24, 2019

PROVIDENCE, RI - On Friday, October 25, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) will host the AmeriCorps Opening Day and 25th Anniversary Celebration to recognize the contributions AmeriCorps members make to Rhode Island communities.

“Every day, in communities across Rhode Island, AmeriCorps members are getting things done to make our state stronger,” said Governor Gina M. Raimondo. “For 25 years and counting, these volunteers have made a tremendous difference, and I thank each and every AmeriCorps member, past and present, for their service to Rhode Island."

AmeriCorps will provide more than 400 individuals the opportunity to commit to long-term volunteer projects to meet education, housing, mental health, environmental, and other pressing needs across Rhode Island this year. They join 75,000 AmeriCorps members serving through 21,000+ schools, non-profits, and community and faith-based organizations across the country.

“AmeriCorps members give back to our communities in critical areas of need, including education,” said Angélica Infante-Green, Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education, who will administer the AmeriCorps pledge.“As a proud AmeriCorps alumnus myself, Iam excited to welcome a new class as they embark on a year of service in our schools and neighborhoods.”

AmeriCorps members have played a critical role in the recovery of communities affected by disasters and helped thousands of first generation college students access higher education. They also tutor and mentor young people, connect veterans to jobs, care for seniors, reduce crime and revive cities, fight the opioid epidemic, and meet other critical needs.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of AmeriCorps. Since the program’s inception in 1994, more than 7,500 Rhode Island residents of all ages and backgrounds have served approximately 11 million hours through AmeriCorps, and have earned education awards totaling more than $25.5 million.

Friday's AmeriCorps ceremony is organized by ServeRI, the Governor-appointed state service commission that oversees Rhode Island’s AmeriCorps programs and promotes volunteering across the state. Administered by the Rhode Island Department of Education, ServeRI awarded $1.5 million in AmeriCorps grants and $1 million in education scholarships for fiscal year 2020. Learn more and apply to serve at www.serverhodeisland.org

-30-