What They Are Saying: Elected Officials Laud AmeriCorps Members and AmeriCorps Seniors Volunteers
Leaders from across the nation honored AmeriCorps Week, an annual week-long celebration of AmeriCorps members, alumni, AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers and programs
WASHINGTON, DC– On March 12-18, the nation celebrated AmeriCorps Week and the millions of Americans who unite through service to address their communities’ most urgent needs. The annual celebration is led by the federal agency AmeriCorps and observed the second full week of March to recognize the millions of Americans ages 18+ who have served with AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors programs. Currently, more than 200,000 people serve as AmeriCorps members or AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in nearly 40,000 locations across all 50 states and territories.
Elected officials and other leaders lauded AmeriCorps and its programs, highlighting the impact of national service in their communities, particularly in the agency's priority areas: disaster response, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures and veterans and military families.
Administration and Elected Officials
“From Day 1, we knew we had to take urgent action to help students feel supported, seen, heard, & understood. With the help of @AmeriCorps, @nps_success is making that a reality,” said US Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
“Happy AmeriCorps Week! Through collaboration around the goal of student success, I can proudly say that @usedgov & @AmeriCorps are shining examples of #UnitedWeServe. #AmeriThanks,” said US Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. [Tweet, 3/15/2023]
“This week is #AmeriCorpsWeek and celebrates the legacy of service that our partners at @AmeriCorps contribute to our country and to our public lands. Their efforts are an incredible asset to @Interior,” said US Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. [Tweet, 3/15/2023]
“During this #AmeriCorpsWeek I would like to express my appreciation to all of the @AmeriCorps members who are working to help improve communities across the country. We see you and appreciate you,” said US Deputy Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Adrianne Todman. [Tweet, 3/17/2023]
“Before #AmeriCorpsWeek ends, I want to recognize the great work that @ServeColorado does with @AmeriCorps members, @AmeriCorpsVISTA and @AmeriCorpsSr volunteers. They're truly making a difference in communities across Colorado and the country,” said Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO). [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
“Just a few days ago, I was proud to meet AmeriCorps volunteers at Grow Ohio Valley and at Wheeling Heritage. Whether helping grow and develop our Heritage Areas or reading to kids through the Energy Express program, AmeriCorps volunteers put in time and effort to make real, lasting impacts on lives in communities across West Virginia,” said Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV). “I am proud to join my colleagues in leading this effort to celebrate the good work AmeriCorps does to serve others and improve the lives of so many.” [Release, 3/17/2023]
“During AmeriCorps Week, I want to send a big AmeriThanks to all past, present and future members and volunteers,” said Senator Tom Carper (D-DE). “I love that this year’s theme is "United We Serve." We must always remember that our greatest accomplishments happen together. Thanks for all you do AmeriCorps!” [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
“Since 1993, @AmeriCorps members have volunteered to lift and build up communities across America,” said Senator Bob Casey (D-PA). “This AmeriCorps week, I'm saying #AmeriThanks to the thousands of volunteers who help bring out the best of America.” [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
“AmeriCorps members do everything from empowering students in the classroom to supporting veterans transitioning to civilian life,” said Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA). “They make their communities better. This resolution honors their work in services to those who need a helping hand.” [Release, 3/17/2023]
“The roots of our nation’s democracy aren’t in the halls of Congress, but rather in friends, neighbors, and complete strangers rolling up their sleeves and working together to improve communities across the country. There is no finer example of that than the 200,000 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in the United States working with our veterans, teaching our kids, and improving public health,” said Senator Chris Coons (D-DE). “As Co-Chair of the National Service Caucus, I’m delighted to celebrate AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps week, and I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to strengthen AmeriCorps, AmeriCorps Seniors, and other national service programs.” [Release, 3/17/2023]
“National service is a critical and cost-effective approach to solving problems. Early in my career, I spent the better part of a year working for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as an AmeriCorps member. That experience taught me that there is no venture more rewarding than working to improve the lives of those around us. As we celebrate AmeriCorps Week, I’m proud to be named as Vice Chair of the National Service Congressional Caucus and look forward to working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to provide a new generation of Americans with meaningful opportunities to serve their country and leave their mark,” said Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM). [Release, 3/17/2023]
“This #AmeriCorpsWeek we celebrate all those who wear the #AmeriCorpsA! Many great Mississippians already do wonderful work with @AmeriCorpsNCCC Vicksburg, and there’s always room for more. @VolunteerYall Learn ways you can pass it on: https://americorps.gov,” said Senator Hyde-Smith (R-MS). [Tweet, 3/16/2023]
“West Virginians have a long history of lending a hand to their neighbors in times of need,” said Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV). “Last year, more than 3,300 AmeriCorps volunteers served at more than 500 locations across West Virginia, including schools, food banks, homeless shelters, health clinics, youth centers, and veterans’ facilities. These projects continue to make incredible impacts on our state and country. As a longtime supporter of the AmeriCorps program, I’m proud to join this bipartisan resolution to celebrate the critical contributions of its members and thank them for their service to our communities.” [Release, 3/17/2023]
“During AmeriCorps Week we celebrate the contributions of @AmeriCorps service members across the nation. I am especially grateful to the more than 8,500 members who volunteered in Massachusetts last year to build healthy communities and a healthy future. Thank you,” said Senator Ed Markey (D-MA). [Tweet, 3/16/2023]
“Happy #AmeriCorpsWeek! Thank you to all of the @AmeriCorps members & @AmeriCorpsSr volunteers across the country for their dedicated service,” said Representative Valerie Foushee (NC-04). “This week, I had the privilege to visit AmeriCorps members in NC-04 and thank them for their invaluable service to our community.” [Tweet, 3/17/2023]
“Our national service volunteers are a great investment: For every $1 invested, service organizations can leverage $17 in private funding to help improve our communities. In exchange, our volunteers gain critical experience that sets them on a path to success and a lifetime of service across our country,” said Representative Garret Graves (LA-06). “Every day, volunteers help folks recover from disasters, receive an education, improve their neighborhoods, and break the poverty and government-dependence cycle. It’s a win-win for Louisiana and America, and I’m proud to join the National Service Congressional Caucus as a Co-Chair.” [Release, 3/17/2023]
“I had the opportunity to meet with volunteers in the Foster Grandparents Program at @AlverniaU,” said Representative Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06). “Through @AmeriCorpsSr, they provide 1-on-1 mentorship, advice, and support for young people in our community. It's just one example of the many ways we can serve our country.” [Tweet, 3/15/2023]
“Across our nation, AmeriCorps members have stepped up to serve their communities – bridging divides and symbolizing a helping hand in times of need,” said Representative Doris Matsui (CA-07). “Every day, these dedicated young Americans provide tangible, community-focused resources that show us just how essential these programs are. I am proud to join my National Service Caucus colleagues in celebrating all of their hard work and excited to have Congressman Graves as my new Co-Chair in the House. This spirit of service is a crucial part of our national identity, and we must continue to fight for the resources necessary to support this invaluable work.”
“Since 2006, AmeriCorps has seen over 500 senior volunteers in the Marianas who have helped over 18,000 of their fellow students through tutoring and aiding teachers,” said Representative Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (NMI-At Large). “A big Si Yu'us Ma'ase to all the volunteers - past and present - who keep this program running.” [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
“During #AmeriCorpsWeek, we thank @AmeriCorps and @AmeriCorpsSr members, including veterans in the VetCorps program I helped create, for stepping up to serve our communities and leaving a lasting impact on our country,” said Representative John Sarbanes (MD-03). [Tweet, 3/15/2023]
“As an @AmeriCorps alum who served with Teach for America as a high school English teacher in Los Angeles, I’m grateful for all the work @AmeriCorps & @AmeriCorpsSr volunteers are doing in California,” said Representative Kevin Kiley (CA-03). “Happy #AmeriCorpsWeek to all the members, volunteers and alumni!” [Tweet, 3/17/2023]
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper proclaimed March 12-18, AmeriCorps Week in recognition of programs that are getting things done for North Carolina. [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
“Since 1994, AmeriCorps Kentucky volunteers have donated their time and energy to serve our people and unite our communities,” said Kentucky Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman. “As a mother and as a teacher, I am grateful. That’s why I was so excited to join @ServeKY to present a proclamation for AmeriCorps Week here in Kentucky!” [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs proclaimed March 12-18, AmeriCorps Week in recognition of programs that are getting things done for Arizona. [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Lt. Governor Jon Husted proclaimed March 12-18, AmeriCorps Week in recognition of programs that are getting things done for Ohio. [Tweet, 3/20/2023]
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers and Lt. Governor Sara Rodriguez proclaimed March 12-18, AmeriCorps Week in recognition of programs that are getting things done for Wisconsin. [Tweet, 3/13/2023, Tweet, 3/14/2023]
Idaho Governor Brad Little and Secretary of State and AmeriCorps alumnus Phil McGrane proclaimed March 12-18, AmeriCorps Week in recognition of programs that are getting things done for Idaho. [Release, 3/13/2023]
South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster proclaimed March 12-18, AmeriCorps Week in recognition of programs that are getting things done for South Carolina. [Tweet, 3/14/2023]
“It was my joy to join @VolunteerMD for a day of service at Baltimore Community Toolbank to celebrate AmeriCorps Week and their 30th anniversary,” said Maryland Governor Wes Moore. “I’m grateful for your service to our state and the example you set for all Marylanders.” [Tweet, 3/18/2023]
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy proclaimed March 12-18, AmeriCorps Week in recognition of programs that are getting things done for New Jersey. [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
“It's #AmeriCorpsWeek now until this Saturday,” said Louisiana Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser. “My Office and our state have been supported by @AmeriCorps service members and programs for many years and their contributions are immeasurable. Thank you! Make sure to visit our @volunteer_la page to get involved!” [Tweet, 3/16/2023]
Puerto Rico Governor Pedro Pierluisi proclaimed March 12-18, AmeriCorps Week in recognition of programs that are getting things done for Puerto Rico. [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
New Hampshire Governor Chris T. Sununu proclaimed March 12-18, AmeriCorps Week in recognition of programs that are getting things done for New Hampshire. [Proclamation, 3/13/2023]
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer proclaimed March 12-18, AmeriCorps Week in recognition of programs that are getting things done for Michigan. [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin proclaimed March 12-18, AmeriCorps Week in recognition of programs that are getting things done for Virginia. [Proclamation, 3/12/2023]
“Thank you to all the amazing @americorps members! Your dedication to service and making a difference in your communities is truly inspiring. Happy #AmeriCorpsWeek! @CalVolunteers,” said California State Senator Bill Dodd (D-CA). [Tweet, 3/16/2023]
“Sending a shout out to all the @AmeriCorps members out there! Your hard work and dedication to service are truly inspiring. Keep up the amazing work!” said California State Senator Tom Umberg (D-CA). [Tweet, 3/17/2023]
“Happy #AmeriCorpsWeek! This week, we give #AmeriThanks & encourage more Americans to #ChooseAmeriCorps,” said Massachusetts State Representative Bill Driscoll, Jr. (MD-07). [Tweet, 3/17/2023]
“Today is #AmeriCorpsDay! Every year, 11k+ @AmeriCorps volunteers from across PA work to build stronger, healthier communities. In honor of their selfless dedication, Rep. Joshua Siegel & I have introduced a resolution designating March 12-18 as #AmeriCorpsWeek. #AmeriCorps,” said Pennsylvania State Representative Melissa Shusterman (PA-157). [Tweet, 3/16/2023]
Arkansas House of Representatives issued a Joint Resolution for AmeriCorps Week 2023. [Facebook, 3/16/2023]
Kentucky House of Representatives issued a Citation of Celebration for AmeriCorps Week 2023. [Tweet, 3/16/2023]
“Happy @AmeriCorps Week! We're proud to celebrate the thousands of dedicated members across our state and country who are making a difference in their communities,” said California State Assembly member Akila Weber, MD (CA-79). "Special shout out to the California Conservation Corps members who volunteer at our events!” [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
“This #AmeriCorpsWeek, we'd like to extend our gratitude to the AmeriCorps VISTAs who have served within the City government. Their service has made a lasting impact, with projects that will continue benefitting our communities for years to come,” said Honolulu Mayor Rich Blangiardi. [Tweet, 3/16/2023]
Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser recognized AmeriCorps members AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers who serve in local communities with a proclamation. [Tweet, 3/14/2023]
St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter recognized AmeriCorps members AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers who serve in local communities with a proclamation. [Tweet, 3/16/2023]
“We are proud to celebrate AmeriCorps Week and to highlight the meaningful impact of these two programs in our community,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. “The work being done by the Classroom Companions and Tampa’s Green Team is a testament to the power of service and the difference that it can make in the lives of our residents. We thank AmeriCorps for their support and partnership in making these initiatives possible.” [Release, 3/14/2023]
Cheyenne [Wy.] Mayor Patrick Collins shared “his thanks to the many “grandmothers” and “grandfathers” who work as senior companions and serve as foster grandparents, helping families, teachers, and students alike improve in areas only a grandparents’ love can provide.” [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
“Last Friday, I attended @ElderCareBB’s annual Volunteer Recognition Gala and presented a proclamation recognizing March 12-18, 2023, as #AmeriCorpsWeek,” said Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey. “Thank you to Elder Care Services, Inc. AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers and alumni for your tremendous community service.” [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
“That's right, it's #AmeriCorpsWeek in Phoenix! This week is about celebrating the contributions of @AmeriCorps members who have been working to better communities across our city — tackling issues like senior care, sustainability, homelessness, and more,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. [Tweet, 3/14/2023]
“@AmeriCorps volunteers support nonprofit organizations throughout our city, and I’m pleased to proclaim it AmeriCorps Week in the @CITYOFMESA,” said Mesa [Ariz.] Mayor John Giles. [Tweet, 3/16/2023]
Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines delivered proclamations to Habitat for Humanity of Forsyth County, Wake Forest University, and Love CDC. [Tweet, 3/14/2023]
“In honor of #MayorsDay, I proudly join mayors across America to recognize the @AmeriCorps members and @AmeriCorpsSr volunteers who make a difference in our cities through service. Thank you for bringing out the best of San Antonio. #AmeriCorpsWeek #UnitedWeServe” said San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg. [Tweet, 3/13/2023]
Madison [Wisc.] Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway recognized AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers who serve in local communities with a proclamation. [Tweet, 3/14/2023]
Little Rock [Ark.] Mayor Frank Scott, Vice-Mayor Kathy Webb and Little Rock City Board of Directors recognized AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers who serve in local communities with a proclamation. [Facebook, 3/14/2023]
“On behalf of the @CityofProv, I join mayors across America to recognize the @AmeriCorps members and @AmeriCorpsSr volunteers who make a difference in our cities through their service,” said Providence Mayor Brett Smiley. “Thank you @AmeriCorpsRI for bringing out the best of our city! Happy #AmeriCorps Week!” [Tweet, 3/14/2023]
Charleston [S.C.] Mayor John Tecklenburg recognized AmeriCorps members who serve in local communities with a proclamation. [Tweet, 3/14/2023]
Nonprofit Leaders
“In communities across the country, AmeriCorps members of every background are vital boots on the ground, providing critically needed support to food banks, homeless shelters, health centers, schools, youth organizations, veterans facilities, and other nonprofit and faith-based organizations,” said AnnMaura Connolly, president of Voices for National Service. “As we celebrate AmeriCorps Week, we are deeply grateful to Senators Chris Coons, Bill Cassidy, Shelley Moore Capito, and Martin Heinrich and Representatives Doris Matsui and Garret Graves for their leadership of the National Service Congressional Caucus. We are especially thankful for their commitment to AmeriCorps, a commonsense solution we can all agree should be expanded and strengthened.”
“The National Service Caucus serves as a critical bipartisan voice helping to educate Congress on the importance of national service and its ability to bring communities together while addressing key needs. On behalf of state and territorial service commissions, we applaud Senators Chris Coons, Bill Cassidy, Martin Heinrich, and Shelley Moore Capito, and Representatives Garret Graves and Doris Matsui, for their efforts in growing the bipartisan support and reach of the caucus in the 118th Congress,” said Kaira Esgate, CEO of America’s Service Commissions. “This is an exciting announcement to cap AmeriCorps Week. We look forward to working with the caucus on ensuring AmeriCorps and our states and territories have adequate resources to support opportunities to serve in AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors, and volunteer in our communities on projects that develop new pathways to in-demand careers, support veterans and their families, recover from natural disasters and build resilience, and help students make educational gains.” [Release, 3/17/2023]
“AmeriCorps Week is a time to celebrate the thousands of AmeriCorps members across the country and all that they contribute to our country. These past several years have proven how important giving back to one’s community is, and AmeriCorps members were and remain at the forefront of helping their communities. This resolution is a testament to all that AmeriCorps does for our nation,” said Mary Ellen Sprenkel, president and CEO of The Corps Network. “I want to thank Senators Coons and Cassidy and Representative Matsui for being tireless supporters of AmeriCorps and the Corps movement. I am also excited about the expanding leadership of the National Service Congressional Caucus. Senators Heinrich and Capito and Representative Graves bring years of experience to the caucus, and all have excellent service and Conservation Corps programs located in their states and congressional districts. I thank the entire National Service Congressional Caucus for their support and salute all current and former AmeriCorps members for their service to our country.” [Release, 3/17/2023]
“As we close out AmeriCorps Week, it’s inspiring to see bipartisan service year champions raise their hands to lead both the Senate National Service Caucus and the House National Service Caucus,” said Kristen Bennett, CEO of Service Year Alliance. “We are grateful to Senators Cassidy, Coons, Capito, and Heinrich and Representatives Graves and Matsui for recognizing the transformative power of service years to transform lives, address community needs, and build a stronger civic fabric. We look forward to working in partnership with the House and Senate National Service Caucuses to advance our shared vision to make a service year an opportunity for all young Americans and continue to bring new bipartisan champions to the table to strengthen and expand national service.” [Release, 3/17/2023]