AmeriCorps and Senior Corps Increase Investment to Combat Opioid Crisis in 150 U.S. Communities

WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Corporation for National and Community Service, the federal agency for volunteering and service, announced it has invested more than $10.5 million in opioid-related AmeriCorps and Senior Corps projects to address the current epidemic. The federal investment supports 1,200 AmeriCorps and Senior Corps members in more than 150 communities across 45 states.

AmeriCorps and Senior Corps members serve in nonprofits, faith-based, and community organizations working to expand the reach and impact of substance abuse education, prevention, and recovery efforts. They serve as recovery coaches, build capacity for anti-drug organizations, expand drug abuse education, promote the safe disposal of medication, conduct drug screenings and assessments, help prevent relapse and recidivism, and more. A complete list of programs and locations can be found here.

CNCS is also providing up to $4.1 million in education scholarships for the AmeriCorps members funded by these grants to help them pay for college, vocational training, or pay back student loans. 

Today's announcement stems from CNCS's call to Governor-appointed state service commissions and local and national organizations to use national service as a solution to the growing opioid crisis. Last year, the agency prioritized opioids and substance abuse programming in its funding competitions and program guidance.

For more than two decades, CNCS has supported substance abuse prevention strategies by employing positive youth development through in-school, afterschool, tutoring, and mentoring programs that help youth stay on track, graduate ready for college or career, and refrain from risky behaviors, including illegal drug use.

AmeriCorps and Senior Corps programs are recruiting now for new positions that will help prevent and reduce opioid abuse or support recovery from drug addiction. Those interested in serving can learn more by visiting nationalservice.gov.

The Corporation for National and Community Service is the federal agency for volunteering, service, and civic engagement. The agency engages millions of Americans in citizen service through its AmeriCorps and Senior Corps programs and leads the nation's volunteering and service efforts. For more information, visit NationalService.gov.

SOURCE Corporation for National & Community Service