Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Governor Culver Issues “Call to Service”, Encourages Iowans to Join New Americorps Flood Recovery Effort
(DES MOINES) Today, Governor Chet Culver called on Iowans across the state to join AmeriCorps to help in the state’s disaster recovery efforts.
“All across our state Iowans have answered the call,” said Governor Culver. “Over the past month, as nearly 40,000 Iowans were forced from their homes, more than 50,000 Iowans joined together as volunteers to help their friends, family, and neighbors in need. Now, we need the help of Iowans once more. As we begin down the road to recovery, I call on Iowans to serve in AmeriCorps to help with the most immediate challenges facing our communities. Now more than ever, we need the skills, time, and commitment of every Iowan. And together, I am confident that we can rebuild our state stronger and better than before.”
In June, Governor Culver announced the “AmeriCorps*VISTA Corridor Flood Recovery Initiative” and Iowans are encouraged to apply. 200 8-week and yearlong AmeriCorps positions are available in the Cedar Rapids-Iowa City area, and 20 positions are available in Waverly. Members will assist with flood relief through debris removal, cleanup of facilities damaged by standing water, and reconstruction. In addition, AmeriCorps*VISTA members will assist with volunteer recruitment and mobilization, and help lead community-wide rebuilding efforts.
Yesterday, Governor Chet Culver and Major General Ron Dardis, chair of the Rebuild Iowa Commission, traveled to Coralville to meet with AmeriCorps members and community volunteers in Johnson County. During the event, he called on college students at the University of Iowa to join AmeriCorps during their summer breaks.
From 2000-2007, over 2500 Iowans answered the call to serve in our state’s AmeriCorps programs. With this new recovery expansion and the new AmeriCorps*National Civilian Community Corps opening next week in Vinton Iowa, Iowa will have over 1000 AmeriCorps members serving this year alone.
AmeriCorps members receive a modest living stipend while serving, and an educational award upon completion of their term. For information about how to join the AmeriCorps flood recovery efforts, visit www.flood2008.iowa.gov or call (800) 308-5987.