The New York State Commission on National and Community Service (CNCS) and AmeriCorps New York today celebrated their 25^th anniversary with a volunteer beautification project at Niagara Falls State Park in Niagara Falls. More than 300 volunteers spent the day picking up trash, planting greenery, spreading mulch, and engaging in other clean-up activities to ready one of Western New York’s greatest natural treasures for the spring and summer seasons.

The Commission partnered with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, the City of Buffalo, and the Service Collaborative of Western New York to organize the Niagara Falls State Park service project.

“The New York State Commission on National and Community Service is pleased to draw AmeriCorps members from all over the state to participate in this wonderful volunteer effort to wrap up our annual gathering,” said Executive Director Linda Cohen. “The Commission and AmeriCorps believe in community service and the positive impact it has on communities across New York State. We’re proud to celebrate 25 years of a tradition that provides opportunities while making a difference.”

The Commission funds 1,500 members in New York State who assist in rebuilding neighborhoods, unifying communities, and contributing to the well-being of thousands of New Yorkers through their work in local communities. AmeriCorps members meet pressing local needs across New York State through non-profits, schools, public agencies, tribes, and community and faith-based groups, making a lasting impact in communities while gaining valuable skills and experience to advance their careers.

“AmeriCorps members answer the call to community service and believe in helping our neighbors,” said AmeriCorps Commission Chair Hillarie Logan-Dechene. “I am extremely proud of the work we have done over the past 25 years and look forward to continuing that work for years to come.”

“We are thrilled to have the New York State Service Summit here in our home of Buffalo. In honoring the 25^th anniversary of AmeriCorps, The Service Collaborative embraces an atmosphere that fosters passion, embraces ideals and creates change,” said Kate Sarata of the Service Collaborative of Western New York. “Aligning our focus areas with those of AmeriCorps, The Service Collaborative will continue to sharpen our attention and magnify our impact across Western New York and in the lives of individuals in need.”

AmeriCorps has helped reinforce America’s independent sector by supporting many non-profit, community, education, and faith-based groups throughout New York State.

Since 1994, more than 90,000 New York State residents have served approximately 140 million volunteer work hours through AmeriCorps. In exchange for their service, members earn educational stipends in form of Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards, which have totaled more than $334.4 million since the program’s inception.