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Volunteer Tennessee, Tennessee’s governor-appointed commission on volunteerism and service, is pleased to announce the selection of 19 organizations across the State of Tennessee to receive AmeriCorps State grants in 2021-2022. These grants will provide nearly $6.2 million in federal funds, which will leverage an additional $17.4 million in local matching funds. This total investment of over $23 million will support the service of 1,098 AmeriCorps members who will be engaged in a variety of activities to achieve a greater impact on the social challenges facing our state.
Over the next months, individuals of all ages and backgrounds will begin training and orientation in preparation to serve as AmeriCorps members at nonprofits, state agencies, school districts, and institutions of higher education throughout Tennessee. The yearlong commitment these AmeriCorps members will make comes from a desire to serve their fellow Tennesseans, gain new skills, further their higher educational goals, and above all, make Tennessee a better place to live for all.
Despite the obstacles presented by COVID-19, AmeriCorps programs continue to provide vital community services and meet emerging needs. In 2021-2022 alone, AmeriCorps members will serve over 1.4 million hours to benefit the state, and upon the conclusion of their service will collectively earn over $5 million in education awards to be used for their higher education.
Specifically, in District 38, Volunteer Tennessee has awarded the following to meet critical needs:
AmeriCorps is a network of local, state, and national service programs that connect over 75,000 Americans each year in intensive service to meet community needs in education, the environment, public safety, health, and homeland security. Members serve in full or part-time positions over a 10-12 month period. Upon completion of their service, full-time members receive a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $6,195 to pay for college, graduate school, or to pay back qualified student loans. Part-time members receive a partial
education award. Members also have access to other benefits such as health insurance, child care, training, and student loan forbearance during their service. Members may also receive a modest annual living allowance depending on the terms of their program.
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Kelly Keisling serves as State Representative for House District 38 which encompasses Macon, Clay, Pickett, Scott, and part of Fentress Counties. To reach State Representative Kelly Keisling, call 615-741-6853 or email him at rep.kelly.keisling@capitol.tn.gov. Connect with Kelly on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.