ELKINS, WV — The Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area (AFNHA) is now accepting applications from organizations interested in hosting an AmeriCorps member for the 2025–2026 program year. Full-time service placements will begin on September 3, 2025, offering a valuable opportunity for nonprofits and government agencies to expand their capacity and make a lasting impact in their communities.
AmeriCorps members serving through AFNHA work on projects that support the preservation and celebration of the natural and cultural heritage of Appalachia. Service areas include environmental conservation, cultural heritage development, and educational stewardship.
Eligible host sites must be nonprofit or governmental organizations located within the 16-county West Virginia region covered by AFNHA. In addition to aligning with the mission and themes of the Heritage Area, organizations must provide member supervision, assist with recruitment and reporting, and contribute an in-kind match of project-related time and expenses.
The cost to host a full-time AmeriCorps member (1,300 hours over 11.5 months) is $6,500. Sites may submit a single application requesting one or more members for different projects. Selected applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal following initial review.
Short-term member placement opportunities may also become available later this year, either through AFNHA directly or in collaboration with partner programs. Organizations interested in these options are encouraged to contact americorps@afnha.org to learn more.
AFNHA’s AmeriCorps program has a strong history of supporting local organizations through service. Hosting a member not only provides hands-on help with projects but also brings visibility to the host site’s work.
Applications are still being accepted on a rolling basis. Interested organizations can learn more and apply online at: www.appalachianforestnha.org/getanamericorps
For additional information or questions, contact the AFNHA AmeriCorps team at americorps@afnha.org.
The Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area conserves, interprets, and promotes forest heritage to enhance landscapes and communities in the highlands of West Virginia and Maryland. AFNHA works with partners to accomplish this through community development, conservation, celebrating cultural heritage, and creating opportunities for transformational experiences. AFNHA is a member of the National Heritage Area System. To learn more, see www.appalachianforestnha.org.
Media Inquiries: Jennifer Rhyner AmeriCorps Program Manager jennifer@afnha.org Carlie Dickens Communications Manager carlie@afnha.org
