The Dan River Year (DRY) AmeriCorps program supports southern Virginia’s interest in improving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) outcomes for the region’s citizens The program primarily focuses on K-12 students, job seekers and incumbent workers in the counties of Halifax, Pittsylvania, Henry, and Patrick; and the cities of Martinsville and Danville.  DRY's goals include increased STEM enrichment opportunities, student and adult learner improvements in STEM skills, expanded opportunities for STEM career exploration, and an increased number of community volunteers.

Last year, there were 24 AmeriCorps members serving at 13 host sites, including: The Institute for Advanced Learning (Danville), the Southern Virginia Higher Education Center (Halifax), New College Institute (Martinsville), Averett University’s Center for Community Engagement and Career Competitiveness (Danville), Goodwill of South Central VA (Danville), Danville Public Schools, Pittsylvania County Public Schools, and Boys and Girls Club of Danville Chatham Area.

A few accomplishments from this past service year included:

• Quadrupling capacity to offer winter out-of-school STEM camps, with 12 members leading activities and 61 students participating

• DRY members coordinating the first Family STEM Night with 150 attendees and participation from eight partner agencies

• A DRY member receiving an offer of full time employment as a result of his AmeriCorps service

The Dan River Year AmeriCorps program is getting things done for STEM education in their region!