Volunteer Maine, the state commission for community service, has received notification from the AmeriCorps federal agency regarding the termination of all federal AmeriCorps grant programs under its administration.  The unexpected action impacts our 100 communities across Maine and jeopordizes vital service efforts already underway.

Volunteer Maine is deeply concerned by the abrupt nature of this termination notice, which impacts eight commission-supported AmeriCorps programs, an estimated $2.5 mlllion in annual progrms funding and puts at risk the service of more than 120 AmeriCorps members.  These members —– many of whom committed to 1,700 hours of public service ——- will now only be able to complete approximately 30% of their intended service.

These programs span all 16 Maine counties, addressing challenges such as chronic disease prevention, workforce development, conservation efforts, educational enrichment and community resilence.  More than 100 Maine communities benefit from these programs annually, with over 1,000 local residents engaged as volunteers alongside AmeriCorps members.

For updates please visit the website:  VolunteerMaine.gov.