HELENA — Montana residents rank sixth in the nation when it comes to enrolling in AmeriCorps according to a press release Friday from the Governor's Office of Community Service.
Montana ranked number eight on the list last year.
“Montanans have always had a strong set of values when it comes to finding a way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others,” said Gov. Steve Bullock. “AmeriCorps service is not only the bedrock of our communities, it builds up future generations to believe in the power of giving back.”
There are 15 different AmeriCorps projects in Montana that place dedicated people in communities across the state to address local needs.
More than 800 members served at more than 600 locations in 2018. Members served with schools, food banks, homeless shelters, health clinics, youth centers, veteran’s facilities, and other nonprofit and faith-based organizations.
AmeriCorps offers a variety of service opportunities reducing crime, preserving and restoring public lands, connecting veterans to services, promoting green energy initiatives, fighting the opioid epidemic, rebuilding communities after disasters, and more.
This service experience gives individuals an opportunity to impact Montana communities while gaining valuable skills and experience and advancing their careers.
“We are excited to see Montana climb in the AmeriState rankings,” said Dan Ritter, Executive Director of the Governor’s Office of Community Service.
“Montanans have a long tradition of service to others and it’s not surprising to see our residents answer the call to serve their neighbors and keep our state consistently ranked in the top ten," said Ritter.
This fall marks the 25th anniversary of AmeriCorps.
Since its inception in 1994, more than 10,000 Montana residents have served approximately 9.9 million hours, earning more than $23.8 million in education awards.
Service members can use these awards to pay for college or to pay back qualified student loans.
