Members are bringing concrete improvements like higher math scores, restored streams and lakes, immunized children, reduction of teen pregnancy and juvenile crime, and safer schools to the communities in which they serve. AmeriCorps members are providing services not otherwise provided by employees or volunteers. AmeriCorps is a partnership with states. Two-thirds of the AmeriCorps funds go directly to the states to support locally designed and operated programs. In California, the AmeriCorps programs are administered by the California Commission on Improving Life Through Service.
States are worried about unfunded federal mandates.
AmeriCorps is a funded non-mandate. States are not required to participate, but the ones that do receive support for the national service initiatives that make the most sense for them. California has a diverse, bi-partisan Board of Directors whose members are appointed by the State's Governor. The Commissioners oversee California's AmeriCorps activities. AmeriCorps is a welcome asset for a volunteer sector which is faced with increasing pressures of growing social needs and reduced full-time volunteer forces.