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AmeriCorps: Harris Wofford Joint Service Awards

In a heartwarming ceremony at the Points of Light Conference in Houston, the inaugural Harris Wofford Joint Service Awards honored over 200 AmeriCorps and Peace Corps volunteers. Celebrating the enduring legacy of the late Senator Harris Wofford, this event highlighted the transformative power of volunteerism at home and abroad.  

The Legacy of Harris Wofford

Harris Wofford was a pivotal figure in the creation of both AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps. His vision for national and international service has inspired countless individuals to dedicate their lives to volunteerism. As a special representative to Africa, a director of operations in Ethiopia, and later a Peace Corps associate director, Wofford's influence was profound. - Harris Wofford's Key Roles: - Special representative to Africa - Director of operations in Ethiopia - Peace Corps associate director  

Inaugural Award Ceremony Highlights

Held at the annual Points of Light Conference, the inaugural Harris Wofford Joint Service Awards brought together leaders and volunteers to honor those who have followed in Wofford's footsteps. The ceremony was a touching tribute to Wofford’s belief in the unifying power of service. His nephew, Chris Wofford, presented the awards, emphasizing the enduring impact of his uncle’s work.   Recognizing the Changemakers Michael D. Smith, AmeriCorps CEO, praised the awardees, calling them "changemakers" who have made significant contributions both domestically and internationally. He noted that the awards serve as a call to action, encouraging more people to engage in public service. Carol Spahn, Peace Corps Director, highlighted the more than 240,000 Peace Corps volunteers who have made a global impact since 1961. She underscored the importance of human connection in service, stating that it bridges differences and fosters lasting relationships.  

Impact and Inspiration

The Harris Wofford Joint Service Awards aim to inspire a new generation of volunteers by recognizing exemplary service. Daniel Wofford, the late senator’s son, expressed gratitude for the establishment of the award, highlighting his father's belief in the transformative power of civic service.   Harris Wofford's Contributions to National Service Role Contribution Special Representative to Africa Strengthened US-Africa relations through volunteer service Director of Operations, Ethiopia Led key initiatives in developing volunteer programs Peace Corps Associate Director Expanded the Peace Corps' reach and impact globally   The Continuing Legacy Harris Wofford's life was dedicated to public service, from his time in the Army Air Corps during World War II to his tenure as a US senator. He played a crucial role in passing the 1993 National and Community Service Trust Act, which created AmeriCorps. His legacy continues to inspire through the Harris Wofford Joint Service Awards, encouraging others to serve and unite communities. - Key Legislative Contributions: - 1993 National and Community Service Trust Act - Legislation to make Martin Luther King Day a national day of service   To Summarize The inaugural Harris Wofford Joint Service Awards have set a powerful precedent for honoring and inspiring volunteerism. By celebrating the dedication of AmeriCorps and Peace Corps volunteers, the awards not only honor Harris Wofford's legacy but also encourage a spirit of service that can bridge divides and build stronger communities. These awards remind us that through service, we can create positive change and leave a lasting impact on the world.   Sources: THX News & AmeriCorps. Read the full article

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AmeriCorps: 30 Years of Impactful Service

  Remembering 9/11 Through Service

AmeriCorps CEO Joins National Day of Service in Washington, DC AmeriCorps, the national service organization dedicated to addressing critical needs across the United States, marked a momentous September this year. Led by CEO Michael D. Smith, AmeriCorps engaged in a series of impactful events, paying tribute to the 9/11 National Day of Service and Remembrance and celebrating its 30th anniversary.   A Day of Unity and Giving Back On Monday, September 11, Michael D. Smith stood shoulder to shoulder with members of AmeriCorps and Ambassador Katherine Tai, the U.S. Trade Representative, in Washington, D.C. The occasion was the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance. Together with the 9/11 Day Organization, AmeriCorps volunteers engaged in meal-packing efforts in 18 cities across the nation, collectively providing 6.5 million meal packs for those in need. “Our lives have been shaped by how we, as a country, came together to respond in the wake of 9/11,” said Michael D. Smith, CEO of AmeriCorps. “Through a spirit of unity and an enduring commitment to our most cherished values, 9/11 Day of Service provides Americans an opportunity to reflect, remember, and act, knowing we're unstoppable when we stand together.”  

Addressing the Youth Mental Health Crisis

AmeriCorps CEO Engages in Roundtable Discussion On Monday, September 18, Michael D. Smith journeyed to New York for a significant roundtable event hosted by the Clinton Global Initiative. This gathering focused on the pressing mental health crisis affecting youth across the nation, particularly in minority and rural communities. Leading thinkers and influencers came together to deliberate on strategies to address these challenges.   A Grand Celebration at Yankee Stadium Later that same evening, Smith was the guest of honor at Yankee Stadium, where the New York Yankees, a proud AmeriCorps partner, celebrated the organization's 30th anniversary in style. The event paid tribute to Street Lab, which was recognized by the Yankees earlier this year.  

Advocating for Workforce Development

AmeriCorps CEO at the Congressional Black Caucus Legislative Conference On Saturday, September 23, Michael D. Smith attended the Congressional Black Caucus Legislative Conference, where he met with members of the African American Mayors Association. The discussions revolved around workforce development partnerships and included county officials, labor leaders, and philanthropic figures from across the nation, spanning from Long Beach to Little Rock. “We had a great discussion on workforce development partnerships with the African American Mayors Association, county officials, and labor and philanthropic leaders from across the nation – from Long Beach to Little Rock,” Smith commented following the event. In September, AmeriCorps not only remembered the tragic events of 9/11 through service but also looked forward, addressing critical issues and celebrating three decades of impactful service to the nation. As AmeriCorps continues its mission to strengthen communities and tackle pressing challenges, its commitment to unity and service remains steadfast.   Sources: THX News & AmeriCorps. Read the full article