Press Release - May 16, 2007
OFFICE OF LT. GOV. BARBARA O'BRIEN
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday May 16, 2007
Contacts:
Wil Alston, Press Office, 303-866-6323
LT. GOV. O'BRIEN KICKS OFF COLORADO'S FIRST EVER AMERICORP WEEK, MAY 13-20
The number of Americans who have taken the AmeriCorps pledge to "get things done for America" and dedicated themselves to intense service in exchange for an education award will pass the half-million mark this spring. This is just one of the many achievements that will be celebrated during the first-ever AmeriCorps Week scheduled for May 13-20. During AmeriCorps Week, AmeriCorps and its nonprofit and community partners across the country will thank AmeriCorps members and alumni for the impact they've had, acknowledge the many contributions of public and private community groups to the program, and urge more Americans of all ages and backgrounds to sign up for a year of service in AmeriCorps.
In Colorado, AmeriCorps is administered by the Governor's Commission on Community Service and managed by the Office of the Lieutenant Governor.
"National AmeriCorps Week is about recognizing the selfless work of the thousands of men and women who have generously given their time to serve others," said Lt. Governor Barbara O'Brien. I'm very proud that Colorado is firmly counted in that number."
Since 1994, more than 12,500 Coloradans have taken the AmeriCorps pledge and have worked throughout the US and in various Colorado communities. In the 2006 program year alone, more than 29,000 Coloradans directly benefited from service provided by AmeriCorps members. During that time, AmeriCorps members recruited nearly 5,000 community volunteers.
"This is such a good time to highlight the work of AmeriCorps," said Toya Nelson, the newly appointed executive director of the Governor's Commission on Community Service. "This week not only gives us the opportunity to thank and salute those who have given of their time and talent, but it also gives us the chance to promote the wonderful opportunities AmeriCorps offers future members."
About AmeriCorps
In the 2004-05 program year, 12,000 students in grades k-12 received tutoring, 9,200 acres of public land & habitats were restored and serviced, 298 miles of trail or public park areas were maintained and cleaned, over 700 children were immunized, 5,200 at risk youth and children were mentored, and nearly 600 people participated in training devoted to parenting-skill development.
AmeriCorps members serve either one or two-year terms. Upon completion of their service, members are eligible for an education award of $4,725 that can be used to pay back student loans or cover tuition costs. Colorado AmeriCorps members have received more than $21 million in education awards since the program¿s beginning in 1994.
To learn more about AmeriCorps or to get information about events occurring during Colorado AmeriCorps Week, call Mark Skinner @ 303.866.2565, or go to the national AmeriCorps website.
SIDEBAR: Local AmeriCorps Week events planned:
Sunday, May 13 through 19, 2007
Rebuild 1000!
The Rebuilding Together South West AmeriCorps *VISTA Project will be teaming with community volunteers in New Orleans, LA to participate in the Rebuild 1000! initiative. The team will be rebuilding the homes of 2-3 homeowners affected by Hurricanes Rita and Katrina.
Location: 5840 E Evans Ave, Denver, CO, 80222
Contact: 303.961.7825
Monday, May 14, 2007
AmeriCorps Alums Colorado Chapter Meeting and Dinner
Join the AmeriCorps Alums Colorado Chapter to review highlights of the chapter, share stories of success, recognize outstanding Alums and identify potential new Chapter leadership. Lt. Gov. Barbara O'Brien will be reading a proclamation signed by Gov. Bill Ritter establishing May 13-20 as Colorado AmeriCorps Week. There will be a potluck style dinner--so please bring something to share. The Colorado Chapter will provide main dishes. Guest should consider bringing side dishes, desserts, beverages, candy, appetizers, etc.
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Metro Volunteers, 444 Sherman St, Suite 100, Denver, CO 80203.
Contact: 414-331-0403
Thursday, May 17-18, 2007
Site Visit/Corps Member for a Day
For AmeriCorps Week, community members are invited to visit and/or serve alongside of local NCCC Central Region teams engaged in a tree planting project or wildfire mitigation efforts. Must be 18 or over to take part in the wildfire mitigation project.
Location: Denver & Boulder areas, Denver, CO, 80236
Contact: Lynette Murphy at 303-844-7442
Friday, May 18, 2007
Life After AmeriCorps Conference
Join the Colorado AmeriCorps Alums at the Plant a Seed Life After AmeriCorps Conference Friday, May 18, 2007 in celebration of National AmeriCorps Week May 13-19, 2007. Choose from a variety of practical workshops geared toward Members and your Life After AmeriCorps transition: Effective Resume Writing One-on-One Resume Help, Networking into a Job, Exploring Teaching Programs, Tips on Phone and In-Person Interviews, Joining the Peace Corps, Travel Abroad, Financial Smarts, and Using Your Education Award Slots will be reserved on a first-come-first-served basis and be limited to 95 participants. This is a great opportunity for current members to meet local alumni, network with each other, and gain practical skills for your Life After AmeriCorps!
Time: 1-4:30 p.m.
Location: Metro Volunteers, 444 Sherman St, Suite 100, Denver, CO 80203
Contact: ericaseverson@gmail.com
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Plant A Seed Service Project
A service project involving the moving of cut logs off the trails. The Jefferson County Open Space personnel will work ahead of the group cutting the fallen trees into manageable sections. The work will not be difficult. Volunteers should bring sunglasses, sunscreen, layered clothing, and water (Alums can probably provide bottled water and trash bags through the grant money). Wear long pants and sturdy shoes. And don't forget the all things fabulous ACT's and/or hoodies! AmeriCorps Alums will provide work gloves for use that day. No other tools or materials needed. After the project, participants will travel to the Capitol for the Rally.
Time: 8:00 a.m.
Contact: Laura Becker at: laurajbecker@yahoo.com
Location: Deer Creek Park (South on C-470 from I-70 to the Wadsworth exit. Go south to Deer Creek Canyon Road, turn right and continue to Grizzly Drive. Follow Grizzly Dr. to the parking lot-turn off. It's near Chatfield and approximately a 30-minute drive from the Capitol. Jefferson County Open Space will determine the specific meeting location. Participants will fill out waivers (must be over 16 or accompanied by an adult), have a brief welcome from Alums and get trained by the Jefferson County Open Space folks.
National AmeriCorps Week Capitol Celebration
AmeriCorps Members, Alums, friend, family and other constituents will gather at the Capitol to celebrate the end of National AmeriCorps Week, and look ahead to the future impact that national service in Colorado can have. Speakers include: Toya Nelson - newly appointed executive director of the Governor's Commission on Community Service, Janelle Spahn - Ms. Colorado Globe 2007; Christine Benero - CEO of the American Red Cross/Mile High Chapter; Christy Hicks--Assistant Director of AmeriCorps Alums.
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Location: Colorado State Capitol Steps, 200 E Colfax, and Denver, CO, 80203
Contact: 512-565-7728