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AmeriCorps Forest Corps: Youth-Powered Climate Action

  Empowering the Next Generation in Climate Resilience

In a momentous event today, AmeriCorps and the US Department of Agriculture's Forest Service came together for the ceremonial signing of a groundbreaking agreement. This marked the establishment of the AmeriCorps NCCC Forest Corps program, a significant milestone under President Biden's ambitious American Climate Corps initiative. The program aims to train a diverse cadre of conservation and climate resilience workers, setting the stage for a new era of environmental action.   Applications Open for AmeriCorps NCCC Forest Corps For those passionate about making a tangible impact on the environment, the call to action is clear. Applications to join the AmeriCorps NCCC Forest Corps, affectionately known as "Forest Corps," are now open at AmeriCorps.gov/ForestCorps. This unique opportunity invites individuals from all walks of life to contribute to the nation's highest environmental priorities, ranging from reforestation to wildfire mitigation.  

Unveiling the $15 Million, Five-Year Forest Corps Initiative

The Forest Corps initiative, backed by a five-year, $15 million interagency agreement, sets the stage for the first cohort of 80 members to commence their service in the summer of 2024. ' Their mission? To crisscross the country, actively engaging in conserving national forests and grasslands, mitigating wildfire risks in high-threat regions, and providing vital support in reforestation efforts and wildfire crisis response.   A Win-Win Partnership for Conservation and Workforce Development Randy Moore, Chief of the Forest Service, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "This collaboration with AmeriCorps offers a unique opportunity for individuals from diverse backgrounds to learn about conservation and forestry, becoming an integral part of our future workforce. It's a win-win that aligns seamlessly with our Wildfire Crisis Strategy and our commitment to creating climate-resilient forests."  

A Generous Compensation Package for AmeriCorps Forest Corps Members

Breaking barriers to entry, the Forest Corps program ensures financial inclusivity by offering AmeriCorps members a compensation package equivalent to $15 per hour. This comprehensive package encompasses lodging, transportation, clothing, a living allowance, health benefits, and more. Notably, no prior education or experience is required, emphasizing the program's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.   Charting a Course for Youth-Powered Climate Action Ken Goodson, AmeriCorps NCCC Director, highlighted the imminent deployment of the first Forest Corps cohort in just six months. "This program is not just about environmental conservation; it's a catalyst for job creation, strengthening the climate resilience economy. We are grateful to the Forest Service for their pivotal partnership, ushering in a new era of youth-powered climate action."  

AmeriCorps: A Force for National Service and Volunteerism

Integral to this groundbreaking initiative is AmeriCorps, the federal agency dedicated to national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps provides opportunities for Americans to serve their country domestically, addressing the nation's most pressing challenges, improving lives, and communities, and strengthening civic engagement. Each year, the agency places more than 200,000 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in intensive service roles. Additionally, AmeriCorps empowers millions more to serve as long-term, short-term, or one-time volunteers, fostering a culture of active citizenship and collective impact. In a society increasingly driven by environmental consciousness, the AmeriCorps NCCC Forest Corps stands as a beacon, offering individuals a chance to be at the forefront of impactful climate action while securing a promising future for themselves and the planet. Apply today and be a part of the change we desperately need.   Sources: THX News & AmeriCorps. Read the full article