United Ways of Colorado Joint Statement on Protecting AmeriCorps
May 2025
As leaders of United Ways serving communities across Colorado, we join United Way Worldwide in urging Congress to protect and sustain the federal investment in AmeriCorps.
For over three decades, AmeriCorps members have strengthened communities across Colorado and the nation by responding to immediate and critical needs:
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- In Northern Colorado, AmeriCorps members tutor children to build foundational reading skills through Colorado Reading Corps.
- Across rural Colorado, AmeriCorps members help protect against wildfires.
- In Southwest Colorado, AmeriCorps members serve in afterschool and summer programs to boost learning and youth mental health, and to help keep seniors active and connected to prevent loneliness.
- In Denver and Pueblo, AmeriCorps members supported free tax preparation programs, returning nearly $8 million to Colorado families this season.
As the federal agency for national service and volunteerism, AmeriCorps has a proven record of helping communities across the country meet critical needs while tapping into the talents and skills of Americans answering the call to serve.
Each federal dollar invested in AmeriCorps generates an estimated $17 in economic value through matching funds, strengthened local services, and increased workforce readiness for members after their service.
Cuts to AmeriCorps will harm children, seniors, and families, slow local economies, and eliminate critical services that Colorado communities rely on.
We respectfully urge Congress to continue investing in AmeriCorps, ensuring that this proven, cost-effective, results-driven program remains strong for future generations.
Signed by United Way leaders across Colorado:
Mile High United Way – Christine Benero, President and CEO
Pikes Peak United Way – Cami Bremer, President and CEO
United Way of Larimer County – Joy Sullivan, President and CEO
United Way of Mesa County – Faith Rodriguez, Executive Director
United Way of Morgan County – Sue Boyett, Executive Director
United Way of Pueblo County – Shanna Farmer, President and CEO
United Way of Southwest Colorado – Lynn Urban, President and CEO
United Way of the Yampa Valley – Jennifer Bruen, Executive Director
United Way of Weld County – Melanie Woolman, President and CEO
