Gov. Bev Perdue recently announced that the North Carolina Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service has awarded more than $3.3 million in grants to 11 AmeriCorps programs across the state for the 2012-2013 program year.

“North Carolina AmeriCorps programs help make a positive difference in our communities,” said Gov. Perdue. “I am proud of AmeriCorps members for the services they provide by mentoring our youth, assisting the elderly, increasing literacy rates and helping to end homelessness. With these grants, North Carolina can continue its efforts in giving back to its citizens while investing in the future.”

AmeriCorps members serving with these organizations will assist in community outreach and education efforts, provide conservation services, participate in mentoring programs and work in other service activities.

Locally, Stokes Partnership for Children has received a $226,100 grant to fund AmeriCorps and Children Together (ACT). Members serve as assistant preschool teachers and enhance the quality of childcare by providing enrichment activities to the children and release time for teachers to further their studies in early childhood education. Member development includes NC Early Childhood Credentials and a college-level course in early childhood or childcare. The program offers services in Durham, Forsyth, Guilford, Harnett, Lee, Orange, Rowan, Stokes, Surry and Wake counties.

The N.C. Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service, a federally and state-funded agency housed in the Governor’s Office, will provide funding to 11 N.C. AmeriCorps programs for the 2012-2013 program year. AmeriCorps is a national service initiative designed to increase volunteering and civic engagement in America. Since 1994, more than 13,000 individuals have participated in N.C. AmeriCorps programs. Members tutor and mentor school-aged youth, improve the quality of care for preschool children and address the need for energy efficient housing for low-income families. For more information on the N.C. AmeriCorps programs, visit the Commission’s website at www.VolunteerNC.org or call 1-800-820-4483 or 1-877-877-1765 (TTY).