West Virginia has been awarded more than $5.4 million in AmeriCorps funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), the federal agency for volunteering and service programs.

“West Virginians are known for joining together and supporting our neighbors,” said Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va. 

“These AmeriCorps awards will continue important efforts that have helped many communities, students and families throughout the state. Perhaps no effort stood out more than the work and commitment to help West Virginia recover from last year’s devastating floods, which continues through grants like these.”

Of the new funding, $4,091,491 will be awarded to Volunteer West Virginia, the governor-appointed State Service Commission. This funding will support and engage a total of 655 AmeriCorps members. 

Additionally, AmeriCorps members in West Virginia will receive more than $1.3 million in post-service Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards, which will help pay for post-secondary education or student loans.

“In West Virginia, we have a long tradition of neighbors helping neighbors,” said Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va. “The value of serving your community and nation cannot be overstated. I am pleased that AmeriCorps members and organizations throughout our state will be receiving resources to ensure that community service continues to improve families and communities in our state.”

2017 competitive AmeriCorps grants in West Virginia include:

  • West Virginia University: Funding will support the Energy Express AmeriCorps members who provide learning opportunities and nutrition services during the summer months. (510 AmeriCorps members)
  • Appalachian Forest Heritage Area: Funding will provide community development assistance, improve historic buildings and recruit volunteers for conservation and community projects in Appalachian towns. (40 AmeriCorps members)
  • The Education Alliance: Funding will support the AmeriCorps on the Frontline of School Success program where volunteers provide mentor-based services. (35 AmeriCorps members)
  • United Way of Central West Virginia: Funding will support the LifeBridge AmeriCorps program, which aims to improve school readiness, academic achievement, job readiness assistance, financial literacy services, long-term hunger alleviation and community service projects. (70 AmeriCorps members)