Florida will receive over $15 million in grant funding to support nearly 700 AmeriCorps members across the state, according to an announcement from the Corporation for National and Community Service released Wednesday.
AmeriCorps, a program funded by the federal government, sends its members to engage in community service work with the ultimate goal of "helping others and meeting critical needs in the community.”
CNCS announced it would be awarding $5.7 million in competitive grants to eight education-focused organizations in the Jacksonville, Miami and Orlando areas. The funding will go toward the nearly 700 AmeriCorps members who will teach, tutor and mentor students in high-need schools.
Nationwide, many AmeriCorps members participate in a teaching fellowship program where they are sent to low-income schools where they will teach for two years.
“AmeriCorps members make a powerful impact on the toughest challenges facing our nation,” said CNCS CEO Wendy Spencer. “Building on Florida’s strong tradition of neighbor helping neighbor, AmeriCorps members will ensure that more Florida students succeed in school and in life. As they serve others, AmeriCorps members will also expand opportunity for themselves -- gaining skills and experience to jumpstart their careers.”
CNCS is sweetening the deal for AmeriCorps members with a $3.6 million investment in education awards which will help members pay for college or repay student loans after they complete their service in the program.
An additional $6 million will be distributed to statewide nonprofits through Volunteer Florida, the state’s service commission appointed by Gov. Rick Scott.
According to a press release, the investment will generate an additional $15 million local matching to “support to increase the impact of AmeriCorps in the community.”
The Orlando area will receive the largest amount of the grant, receiving more than $3 million over the next two years in three different programs. The Jacksonville area will receive the second-largest grant funding.
Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart praised the news, explaining it was an indicator of the golden years of Florida education.
“I’ve spent more than 30 years in the field of public education,” she said in a conference call. “I believe this is the best time that I’ve experienced in those 30-plus years.
“This is a phenomenal opportunity for Florida's students, and I am proud for DOE to partner with Volunteer Florida and the Corporation for National and Community Service on this collaborative effort,” she said.
“As Florida’s lead agency for volunteerism and national service, we are thrilled to announce this funding for Florida schools and students,” said Volunteer Florida CEO Chester Spellman. “We are especially proud of Volunteer Florida’s tremendous focus on education – putting AmeriCorps members to work in over 55,000 Florida schools – which continues to show strong results, such as improved student performance in math and literacy through our mentoring and tutoring programs.”
Reach Tampa-based reporter Allison Nielsen by email at allison@sunshinestatenews.com or follow her on Twitter: @AllisonNielsen
