Congresswoman Matsui Announces Over $4 Million in Americorps Funding for Sacramento

Press Release

Congresswoman Matsui today announced thatSacramento has received more than $4.2 million in AmeriCorps funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), the federal agency responsible for volunteering and service programs.

"These grants have the possibility to change people's lives," said Congresswoman Matsui. "From preventing child abuse to providing nutrition education to students, this funding is going to have a direct, positive impact on our region. Service is such a core part of our identity in Sacramento, and I commend all of our community heroes serving through AmeriCorps programs. I look forward to working with these organizations and their AmeriCorps members as they work towards positive change in our community."

"For more than 20 years, AmeriCorps members have had a positive and lasting impact on the toughest challenges facing our nation," said Wendy Spencer, CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service. "Building on California's strong tradition of neighbor helping neighbor, AmeriCorps members will improve lives and strengthen communities across California. While they serve others, AmeriCorps members will also expand opportunity for themselves - gaining skills and experience to jumpstart their careers. I salute every AmeriCorps member for his or her dedication and determination to "get things done' and respond to the needs in their communities."

The federal investment includes seven grants totaling $4.2 million, which will support 367 AmeriCorps members. AmeriCorps members will tackle some of the toughest problems in Sacramento including tutoring and mentoring at-risk students, preventing child abuse, helping local governments address the drought and climate change, providing nutrition and financial literacy education, and more.

CNCS will also provide up to $1.9 million in education scholarships for the AmeriCorps members funded by these grants to help pay for college, vocational training, or pay back student loans. The federal investment is projected to generate an additional $6 million in local support to increase community impact and return on federal investment.

The federal investment in California also includes $12.7 million for CaliforniaVolunteers, the Governor-appointed state service commission. Later this summer, CaliforniaVolunteers will make additional grants to support AmeriCorps programs in the state.

The current year's AmeriCorps grant cycle was highly competitive, due to the strong demand by organizations seeking AmeriCorps resources. The 2016 competition prioritized investments in economic opportunity, education, veterans and military families, disaster services, and continued a new initiative for governors and mayors.

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