AmeriCorps Virginia is kicking off the 2026 - 2027 AmeriCorps and Youth Mental Health Corps program year. This year, 15 service organizations received AmeriCorps program grants to address some of Virginia's most pressing challenges and provide support to communities across the Commonwealth.

Serve Virginia ushered in the new program year by hosting July virtual trainings designed to welcome new programs, re-engage returning ones, and guide program directors and staff step-by-step through the fundamentals of successfully managing an AmeriCorps program and volunteers. From August 10 through August 12, Serve Virginia hosted the AmeriCorps Kick-off Convening at the beautiful Maymont Park in Richmond, Virginia. In partnership with The Spark Mill, program leaders participated in sessions focused on navigating complex conversations, tackling organizational challenges, receiving peer feedback, and developing strategies for the future.

"The convening was a great opportunity for AmeriCorps program staff from across the Commonwealth to connect, share best practices, brainstorm solutions to challenges they’re facing, and celebrate their successes from the past program year," said Samantha Lukasiewicz, AmeriCorps Manager with Serve Virginia. "We hope staff left feeling energized, supported, and equipped with new ideas and connections to carry into the year ahead. We’re excited for the new program year and know it’s going to be another successful—and fun—year of service across Virginia!"

During the 2025–2026 program year, AmeriCorps members contributed over 333,000 hours of service to communities across Virginia and earned more than $1.4 million in Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards to support their educational goals—from paying current or future costs at eligible colleges, universities, trade and vocational schools, and training programs to repaying qualified student loans.

We extend our gratitude to all AmeriCorps volunteers and program staff for their hardwork and we wish everyone a successful program year!

Learn more about Virginia AmeriCorps and Youth Mental Health Corps.