Over $1.3 Million in AmeriCorps Funding Awarded to The Service Collaborative of WNY

Press Release

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that New York State has received more than $10.7 million in competitive AmeriCorps funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service, to support organizations that promote children's health and education, disaster preparedness, and other key initiatives. An additional $6 million will be awarded later this year, bringing the total amount of funding to $16.7 million.

"New Yorkers have a long history of lending a hand and coming to the aid of those in need," Governor Cuomo said. "Our AmeriCorps members embody that spirit of service by generously giving their time and effort to make our communities stronger, and I am proud to support their critically important work."

Congressman Brian Higgins said, "New Yorkers have a strong tradition of community service and helping those in need. This grant for the Service Collaborative of Western New York will support children during their most critical time to learn, and fill in gaps to help them succeed and build a strong future for themselves and for our community."

The New York State Commission on National & Community Service -- New Yorkers Volunteer, a Governor-appointed commission, uses the power of AmeriCorps to address some of the States most challenging issues, and encourages citizens to make a difference in the lives of others. The State's AmeriCorps members improve schools and increase educational opportunities, fight poverty, come to the aid of the sick, prepare communities for disasters and rebuild following severe weather events, preserve the environment and support veterans and military families.

Awarded through a Request for Proposal process, the funding will enable 14 non-profit organizations to recruit 1,440 people to serve as AmeriCorps members. Each organization has crafted a program to address specific needs in its community. The New York State Commission on National & Community Service - New Yorkers Volunteer will administer the funding.

New Yorkers Volunteer Executive Director Linda Cohen said, "Whether it's cleaning-up after a devastating storm or helping children succeed in school, AmeriCorps members are making a real difference in our State. This funding will help to grow and support the communities they serve."

Senator Charles E. Schumer said, "AmeriCorps is one of the world's greatest service programs and this federal grant funding will go a long way, not just for the members who will serve, but for the younger people and families who will benefit from the hard work and dedication of the program and its volunteers."

Congressman Charles B. Rangel said, "I thank the Corporation for National and Community Service for enhancing our nation's commitment to building a culture service and responsibility. This funding will ensure that AmeriCorps can continue to provide invaluable services to my constituents through the East Harlem Tutorial Program and Harlem Children's Zone. AmeriCorps members are in the trenches fighting to improve the communities they serve every day, and I am proud that Governor Cuomo supports such initiatives that promote volunteer work nationwide."

Rep. Louise Slaughter said, "When New Yorkers get involved in our own communities, there's no limit to the good we can do. That's why I'm proud to have led efforts to support service programs like AmeriCorps at Monroe Community College here in Rochester. Working alongside our tireless community advocates, I won't stop fighting to ensure these vital programs continue to make a difference for families in Monroe County."

Congresswoman Nita M. Lowey said, "We must do all we can to support those struggling to achieve independence. Westhab has an excellent record of improving the quality of life for thousands of families and individuals throughout Westchester County, and I will continue working in Congress to ensure organizations like Westhab have the resources to fulfill their selfless, service-oriented missions."

Congressman Jerrold Nadler said, "Commitment to community is something New Yorkers know well. Service starts at home and the commitment of people from all walks of life, all ages, races and genders, to volunteering for an important cause is truly inspiring. As a longtime supporter in Congress of the AmeriCorps program, I am glad this federal funding is being brought to our state and I commend the AmeriCorps volunteers for dedicating their time and energy to giving back through service. Governor Cuomo and the 14 organizations across our state who are working to improve our communities should be congratulated for their tireless work."

Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney said, "As a proud supporter of the AmeriCorps program, I am pleased to see these resources flowing to New York in a way that helps our communities. I applaud Governor Cuomo for administering this program in such an effective way, and all of the AmeriCorps members who are working to make our state and country stronger."

Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez said, "Cypress Hills Local Development Corporation does vital work in Brooklyn, providing children with valuable services that help them grow into healthy adults. I'm proud to see these resources designated for this organization, which has truly become a community anchor."

Congressman Paul Tonko said, "This support will provide NENY Red Cross with the tools they need to help local and state governments mitigate and recover from natural disasters that put Capital Region homes and businesses in harm's way. I thank Governor Cuomo for ensuring our communities have every opportunity to prepare for the potential of any disaster, and look forward to working with his office to make New York a safer place to live, work, and raise a family."

The New York State Commission on National & Community Service - New Yorkers Volunteer seeks to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic engagement through service and volunteering in New York State. It was established in 1994 by an Executive Order of the Governor, and administers programs funded by the National Community Service Trust Act of 1993, including AmeriCorps State and AmeriCorps Education Awards programs.