AmeriCorps Turns 30: Celebrating a Legacy of Service and Impact

This year marks a major milestone – the 30th anniversary of AmeriCorps, the national service program that has made a difference in communities across the country. Since its founding in 1994, AmeriCorps has provided opportunities for millions of Americans to step up, serve their communities and gain valuable skills and experience.

AmeriCorps brings together people from all walks of life for a year of intensive service. Members address critical challenges in areas like education, disaster response, environmental stewardship, economic opportunity and more. In exchange for their service, members receive a modest living stipend and an education award to help pay for college or pay off student loans.

Their alumni aren’t just skilled problem-solvers; they embody values that make them sought-after hires for businesses and organizations. From teamwork and collaboration, from adaptability to resilience, from leadership to initiative, AmeriCorps members walk away from their service with skill sets that make them valuable contributors to any organization.

Check out these Daily Point of Light Award recipients who were also AmeriCorps members.

Christopher Perdomo

Christopher Perdomo, an AmeriCorps leader, is inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Through hands-on activities and an environmental debate tournament, Perdomo engages students in environmental science education. He believes everyone has the ability to contribute to their communities and encourages others to get involved.

Sharon Mineo

Sharon Mineo is a tireless advocate for military families, providing multifaceted support to ease the unique challenges of military life. Her work includes creating care packages and organizing fun, safe activities for children within military communities. This Daily Point of Light Award honoree exemplifies selfless dedication to service, extending her compassion to various causes beyond military support.

T’Kiyah Threatt

T’Kiyah Threatt, a college senior and AmeriCorps member, exemplifies dedication to community service. She utilizes training opportunities to enhance her ability to address issues like mental health, education and addiction support. With her infectious enthusiasm and determination to make a difference, T’Kiyah is a rising leader who inspires others to act and create positive change.

Francis Folkers

Retired medical administrator Francis Folkers has found a fulfilling second act volunteering at Florida’s Oscar Scherer State Park. Motivated by her childhood connection to nature, she dedicates countless hours to park maintenance, invasive species removal and educating visitors. Francis values instant gratification, finding joy in the tangible results of her conservation efforts.

Raymond Knight

Raymond Knight found a new direction as an AmeriCorps College Coach at Miles Community College in rural Montana. Despite initial culture shock, he’s thrived in his role. He established the college’s Career Services Center, co-teaches career skills classes and engages in community outreach initiatives. Raymond’s passion for helping students discover their paths, along with his newfound love for the outdoors, has inspired him to extend his AmeriCorps service and consider a longer stay in Montana.

Donielle Lovell

Dr. Donielle Lovell, a Western Kentucky University professor, exemplifies community engagement and a lifelong dedication to service. Drawing inspiration from her own experiences in a Native American community, she fosters a culture of volunteerism with her students. Her work spans educational support, economic empowerment programs, environmental conservation and beyond. Dr. Lovell’s tireless efforts to nurture her community and combat inequities make her a true example of service as a way of life.

Joanna Glover

Joanna Glover, honored as the 7,500th Daily Point of Light, uses her expertise in data analytics to make a difference in disaster response. As a FEMA Corps team leader, she supports teams on-site with vital data and analysis. Her previous service spanning hazard mitigation and environmental work underscores her commitment to helping communities before, during and after disasters.

If you know an extraordinary volunteer in your community who is a true changemaker, nominate them for a Daily Point of Light Award. And when you’re ready to contribute to something bigger, visit the AmeriCorps website to learn how you can get involved.