FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Augusta, ME — Volunteer Maine, the state service commission, is pleased to announce the reinstatement and continued administration of all eight AmeriCorps State programs previously affected by a federal termination order this spring. The commission welcomes this return to normal operations and celebrates the powerful, community-driven work of its grantees and AmeriCorps members across Maine.
Thanks to the recent court ruling that restored funding, AmeriCorps programs across all 16 counties have resumed service, reconnecting members with the communities they serve. Volunteer Maine acknowledges the incredible resilience and commitment demonstrated by program administrators and service members throughout this disruption.
“We are inspired by the determination of our partners and AmeriCorps members, who continued to lead and serve despite the turbulence of the past two months,” said Executive Director Brittany Gleixner-Hayat. “Their dedication underscores the value of service as a cornerstone of local solutions here in Maine.”
While this development is a welcome step forward, Volunteer Maine emphasizes that challenges remain. The release of some of Maine’s Fiscal Year 2025 AmeriCorps funding is currently delayed at the federal level, potentially restricting cash flow for operations and to programs already allocated funding. Additionally, the Fiscal Year 2026 federal budget is under review in Congress, and future allocations for AmeriCorps programming remain uncertain.
“We are monitoring both the FY25 funding holdup and the FY26 federal appropriations process closely,” said Pamela Proulx-Curry, Chair of the Board of Commissioners. “We remain committed to advocating for the continuity of AmeriCorps programming, which provides critical support to Maine communities and offers a transformative path of service for our members.”
Volunteer Maine will continue to coordinate with federal partners, state leaders, and stakeholders to support grantees, uphold service commitments, and ensure Maine communities continue to receive the benefits of AmeriCorps programs. For updates, visit www.volunteermaine.gov.
About Volunteer Maine
Volunteer Maine, the Maine Commission for Community Service, fosters and inspires community service and volunteerism to address critical needs and strengthen civic engagement in the State of Maine.
Media Contact: Tilan Copson, Public Information Officer. Mobile: (207) 530-1586 Email: tilan.copson@maine.gov