AmeriCorps Week is observed this year from March 8 to 14. Most of you will wonder what AmeriCorps Week is — you may not know what AmeriCorps is! Here is an opportunity to find out.

AmeriCorps was established in 1993 by Bill Clinton as a way for more Americans to serve their communities. About 75,000 members serve each year in over 21,000 sites. AmeriCorps members earn a living allowance and receive a Segal Education Award. Over $3 billion in these scholarships have been awarded to AmeriCorps members. Members serve in a variety of positions addressing crucial community needs.

In northern Michigan, AmeriCorps members focus on education, serving with Michigan Reading Corps in elementary schools in Alpena and Alcona, in Boyne City, and in Pellston. They are trained as tutors for students in Kindergarten through grade three who need extra support with literacy skills. Members are supported by an Internal Coach, a literacy expert who works in the building where they serve. Additionally a Master Coach, who works in many districts, brings literacy expertise to each AmeriCorps tutor. Michigan Reading Corps has been in northern Michigan schools since 2018. Currently there are 10 members serving one-year terms in northern Michigan.

We use AmeriCorps Week to recognize the service of these members. Thanks go to Travis Atkinson, Billie Gephrey, Sally LaFleure, Jacqueline Nelsen, Laura Nicholls, Alicia Orlowski, Keely Roznowski, Terri Sawasky, Julie Scott, and Katherine Wilcox for your commitment to your communities. The benefits to us all are immeasurable.

Readers, you have learned a bit about an amazing organization serving northern Michigan communities. If you would like information about how YOU might serve in this AmeriCorps program, go to mieducationcorps.org. AmeriCorps members are “Getting Things Done.”

ALISON MELLON,

Master Coach

Michigan Reading Corps