WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) announced more than $5 million in AmeriCorps investments across West Virginia. The funding includes $3.9 million in grants for West Virginia nonprofits and $1 million in educations scholarships for AmeriCorps members in the state. The grants will also leverage an additional $2.6 million in local matching support.

Several West Virginia organizations will receive AmeriCorps funding: The Education Alliance, West Virginia University Research Corporation, The Appalachian Forest Heritage Area and The United Way of Central West Virginia. These programs will enable AmeriCorps members to eradicate significant problems within several West Virginia communities.

“A state filled with small towns, Main Streets and tightknit communities, West Virginians come together to solve problems and help neighbors in need,” said Senator Capito. “AmeriCorps programs provide integral volunteer assistance in our schools and communities and to families throughout the state. I am especially proud of these organizations, and the critical work they are doing.  These grants will create opportunities for growth in areas that struggle economically.”

“National service is an important part of our future as a state and nation,” Senator Manchin said. “West Virginia has always believed in neighbors helping neighbors, giving back to our communities and contributing our time and service to improve the places that we live for our neighbors and for future generations. This value can never be overstated, and I am pleased that AmeriCorps members and organizations throughout our state will be receiving resources to ensure that community service continues to thrive in our state.”

“AmeriCorps members make a powerful impact on the toughest challenges facing our nation,” said Wendy Spencer, CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service. “Building on West Virginia’s strong tradition of neighbor helping neighbor, AmeriCorps members will improve lives and strengthen communities across the state.  While they serve others, AmeriCorps members will also expand opportunity for themselves – gaining skills and experience to jumpstart their careers. I salute all the AmeriCorps members for their dedication and thank our outstanding partners who make their service possible.”

Individual awards are listed below:

  • The Education Alliance – AmeriCorps on the Frontline of School Success Program: Funding will be awarded to the AmeriCorps on the Frontline of School Success program so AmeriCorps members can provide a dropout prevention mentor-based intervention addressing student attendance, behavior, and course performance in Cabell, Doddridge, Kanawha, Lincoln, McDowell, Monongalia, Monroe, Pleasants, Pocahontas, Raleigh, Randolph and Wood Counties. 
  • West Virginia University – Energy Express AmeriCorps Program: Funding will be used by the Energy Express AmeriCorps program to support nutritional status and reading literacy assistance for first through sixth grade students during summer break. The remaining funds will be used to generate volunteers to assist low-income areas throughout these rural West Virginia communities.
  • Appalachian Forest Heritage Area (AFHA) – Enhancing Assets to Benefit Communities Program: Funding will be used to serve rural communities in West Virginia, providing community development assistance based on the potential for eco-tourism, improving historic buildings, compiling tourist-oriented materials and improving damaged and at-risk ecosystems in small Appalachian towns.
  • United Way of Central West Virginia – Life Bridge AmeriCorps Veteran Corps: Funding will be used to support the Life Bridge AmeriCorps Veteran Corps program by providing job skills training and capacity building for veterans and military families in West Virginia.