Faith-Based AmeriCorps Program Lends a Hand in Louisiana

Volunteers with SynerGeo traveled to Port Sulphur, LA, June 2-10, to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina. The workers helped with food distribution, assisted with debris removal and worked with children at an area elementary school. Much of Port Sulphur's devastation from flooding has yet to be cleared and the town continues to exist without working phone lines. SynerGeo is a faith-based nonprofit that provides volunteer opportunities for students and adults through various programs in Richmond's Oregon Hill.

New Studies Show Volunteering is a Prescription for a Healthy Life

Recent research shows that volunteering in your community improves your general well-being. Volunteering not only improves self-esteem, but also reduces heart rates and blood pressure, increases endorphin production, enhances immune systems, buffers stress and combats social isolation. For more information on how volunteering can improve your health, visit the Corporation on National and Community Service
and National Institutes of Health.

AmeriCorps Week Wrap-Up

Volunteer organizations in several regions of the Commonwealth honored AmeriCorps Week, May 13-20, with school beautification events. Virginia's Windy Hill Foundation After-School Program attended a reception May 18 at the White House. Details.

Hampton Roads' Disaster Volunteer Day

Volunteers and nonprofits in the Tidewater area are invited to attend a day of free training designed to improve emergency preparedness. Some of the session topics will include updates on local and state emergency management programs and specific responses to hurricanes, virus outbreaks and other weather-related emergencies. Details.

Give Virginia Your Feedback on Disability Issues

The Virginia Office for Protection and Advocacy (VOPA) needs your help deciding on its goals and objectives for the coming year. What disability issues should the VOPA take on? What are the most critical issues facing the disability community today? If you're involved with disabled citizens and want to have your voice heard, fill out this simple survey or call (800) 552-3962 to receive it by mail.

Learn and Serve Programs Invited to Apply for Awards

Virginia Naturally Schools is an environmental education school recognition program of the Commonwealth, administered by the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries that recognizes the wonderful efforts of many Virginia schools to increase the environmental awareness and stewardship of our youngest citizens. Schools meeting the minimum requirements will be eligible to receive tiered recognition program awards. Applications must be submitted by June 30. Read more details.

Federal Grants to Benefit Disadvantaged Youth

The U.S. Administration for Children and Families (ACF) will award $7.5 million in funds to organizations who meet the criteria for the Compassion Capital Fund Communities Empowering Youth Program. As much as $250,000 per project, per budget period will be used to assist experienced organizations and their faith-based and/or community partners to meet the needs of disadvantaged youth. The deadline for applications is July 10, 2007.

Summer of Service Across America

The Summer of Service Initiative is a national coalition of youth-serving organizations committed to engaging youth in service during the lazy days of summer. As part of the program, your organization will have access to a Toolkit which includes helpful tips, ideas for activities and links to projects that are working around the country. Details.

National Conference on Volunteering and Service

This year's conference will feature workshops, awards and advice from national community service leaders which focus on collective action as a solution to solve social problems in America. Speakers will include Former President George Bush and America's Promise co-founder Alma Powell. Learn more.

Ready to Make a Difference?

AmeriCorps programs throughout Virginia are now in the process of recruiting members for 2007-2008. Selected members will be expected to begin service August 31, 2007.

Why Serve?

• Members receive assistance with college costs and student loans.
• Participants learn valuable work and life skills.
• AmeriCorps lets you decide how you want to serve - tutoring and mentoring youth, building new homes for families, responding to natural disasters, restoring parks and coastlines, or helping families of domestic violence.

Complete list of AmeriCorps programs in Virginia.