AmeriCorps Cape Cod Year 25: Dedicated Service Begins!
Yesterday marked a momentous occasion as our dedicated members took the AmeriCorps pledge and were formally sworn in as the Year 25 Corps. Over the next 11 months, these 19 extraordinary individuals will commit themselves to dedicating over 32,000 hours to addressing critical environmental and disaster preparedness needs right here on beautiful Cape Cod.
The AmeriCorps Cape Cod Year 25 swearing-in event, led by ACC Program Director Katherine Garafoli, began with enthusiasm. In her opening remarks, she said, “Over the last 25 years, AmeriCorps Cape Cod has made a dramatic impact on the environment and communities of Cape Cod. The program anticipates that our Year 25 ACC members will help the program reach 1 million hours served to the Barnstable County since its founding in 1999.”
Barnstable County Commissioner Mark Forest, in addressing the Year 25 cohort, shared inspiring words and expressed his support for their mission. Drawing from his own experience as a former Vista volunteer, Chairman Forest underscored the significance of the members’ time with AmeriCorps Cape Cod, emphasizing that it will be a truly transformative journey. He also pointed out the significant milestone of 30 years for the National organization and highlighted the extraordinary efforts of the 200,000 annual volunteers who diligently serve in communities nationwide, making a meaningful impact and creating positive change.
The event also featured former Barnstable County Commissioner Mary LeClair, whose historical knowledge of the program and her continued support underscored the enduring impact of AmeriCorps Cape Cod. Reflecting on 25 years ago when she advocated to bring AmeriCorps to Cape Cod, Mary shared, “I believe in AmeriCorps with all my heart,” and continued, “You are the young people that Martin Luther King, Jr., and President John F. Kennedy had a dream about, and would say to you we are only stewards. We are only here to make the world a better place to leave for our children and for your children.”
Jessica Whritenour, a Year 4 alum and Vice Chair of ACC Advisory Board, shared invaluable insights from her AmeriCorps journey, serving as an inspiration to all attendees. The swearing-in ceremony, conducted by Mike Macguire, Director of Cape Cod Cooperative Extension, marked this momentous occasion.
Join us in celebrating this remarkable journey!
As we embark on Year 25 of AmeriCorps Cape Cod, we’re excited about the incredible potential and positive changes these dedicated individuals will bring to our region. Stay tuned for updates on their progress, stories from the field, and opportunities to get involved in our mission to make Cape Cod an even better place to live.
