New Funding Announcement Set to Boost Volunteerism in La Crosse: WisCorps to Benefit Significantly
The La Crosse region is poised for a significant boost in volunteer services as WisCorps gears up to make the most of recently announced funding. As the organization celebrates its 30th anniversary, this financial support couldn’t come at a better time, potentially transforming the landscape of volunteerism and conservation efforts in the area.
A Major Financial Commitment from Serve Wisconsin
In a significant development for volunteer programs throughout Wisconsin, Serve Wisconsin has been granted .8 million from AmeriCorps. This funding will support 29 AmeriCorps programs across the state, with WisCorps in La Crosse receiving a substantial allocation of .3 million. This investment is a strong endorsement of the value of volunteerism, especially during challenging times, as communities emerge more resilient than ever.
Executive Director of Serve Wisconsin, Jeanne Duffy, emphasized the immediate impact of this funding: “This funding will put 875 AmeriCorps members on the ground at over 200 service sites throughout the state. Specifically, WisCorps will benefit from 109 new AmeriCorps members dedicated to making a difference and improving the lives of people across Wisconsin.”
Improving Environmental Stewardship and Community Impact
As part of this new initiative, WisCorps members will take on a range of high-priority conservation projects. This includes facilitating targeted environmental education programs aimed at instilling a culture of stewardship among community members. WisCorps focuses on improving public lands, managing natural habitats, and building or maintaining trails, among other vital activities. It’s a hands-on approach that not only enhances the local environment but also enriches the community’s understanding of ecological sustainability.
With dedicated teams actively engaged in projects such as tree planting and habitat management, the benefits of this funding stretch far beyond just immediate environmental improvements. These initiatives nurture a strong sense of community while empowering local residents, especially young people, to get involved in conservation efforts.
A Legacy of Service and Impact
This year marks a significant milestone—not only for AmeriCorps, celebrating the 30th anniversary of its first members—but also for WisCorps, which has made a lasting mark on the La Crosse area. Duffy noted the positive legacy of service that WisCorps members have built over the years, stating, “They will build upon the previous service of over 31,000 Wisconsin AmeriCorps members, whose combined efforts amount to an astonishing 47 million service hours and have undeniably and positively shaped the lives of Wisconsin’s citizens.”
Moreover, this funding offers a chance to address some pressing issues facing communities, including educational challenges, public health, access to healthcare, and economic opportunity. As Duffy articulated, the new AmeriCorps members will tackle problems related to environmental sustainability and community health, reflecting a broad commitment to improving lives across the state.
A Commitment to Education and Youth Engagement
In addition to environmental projects, there are exciting initiatives on the horizon for youth engagement and literacy improvement. For instance, in the nearby Chippewa Valley region, AmeriCorps members will work alongside Western Dairyland’s Chippewa Fresh Start program to construct homes for families in need, while also guiding at-risk youth in the construction process. Such community involvement not only develops essential skills but also fosters a stronger connection to the community.
Moreover, the Early Childhood Literacy Intervention Program, known as ECLIPSE at UW-Eau Claire, will involve 36 AmeriCorps members dedicated to enhancing the language skills of at-risk children. This initiative works on empowering young learners, reflecting the multifaceted approach AmeriCorps embodies in Wisconsin.
Conclusion: The Future of Volunteerism in Wisconsin
The significance of this funding stretch beyond tangible projects—it signifies a collective commitment to service. Speaking on the impact of AmeriCorps, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers stated, “The success of our state has always relied on the service and sacrifice of individuals and organizations like yourselves.” Encouragingly, with the new funding opportunities, organizations like WisCorps will continue their vital work, addressing everyday challenges faced by communities, fostering volunteerism, and nurturing the next generation of service-focused citizens.
As WisCorps prepares to embark on a new chapter with this funding, the La Crosse community can anticipate a season of transformative action, educational engagement, and a fortified dedication to environmental stewardship. This collaboration between AmeriCorps and local initiatives promises not only to enhance the community’s ecological health but also to encourage a richer volunteer culture that benefits all.
