Sens. Manchin, Capito announce five new AmeriCorps projects across West Virginia

• Tygart Valley United Way in Fairmont — The AmeriCorps NCCC team will assist with tax preparation in several counties identified as underserved by the State Commission.
• Friends of Blackwater in Thomas — The AmeriCorps NCCC team will help with a variety of work including installing new signage, working on trails, preservation of historic features related the area’s industrial history, planting native species to restore habitat, installing trail reroutes and improving water diversion measures.
• Rural Appalachian Improvement League in Mullens – The AmeriCorps NCCC will assist with establishing a roadside/riverside park and upgrading five other parks alongside the Guyandotte River Water Trail. Members will build two river access points for a picnic shelter, erect four signs, upgrade one mile of trail along the Guyandotte River with two bridges, remove one dilapidated building, and build foundation for a new house for a family in need.
• Roane County Commission in Gandeeville – The AmeriCorps NCCC team will work at Camp Sheppard to assist with maintenance and upkeep of the facility and grounds to get it ready for the spring and summer season. This includes repairs to fitness equipment, painting, and installing new windows.

Elk River Trail Foundation in Elkview – The An AmeriCorps NCCC Team will help with the following tasks: clearing brush from land trail, picking up litter along land trail, participating in river cleanups along water trail, clean and paint the Queen Shoals property, assist in constructing new shelters and playground equipment at Queen Shoals, painting outdoor restrooms with historical railroad scenes, cleaning culverts to prevent flooding, and assist with the installation of gates to prevent vehicle and ATV use.

“West Virginians have a long history of lending a hand to their neighbors and supporting their communities across the Mountain State,” Manchin said in a press release. “AmeriCorps projects have made an incredible impact on our state, and I am pleased to announce these five new initiatives. The projects will support West Virginians in a variety of ways, from increasing financial literacy to creating new opportunities for outdoor recreation and more. As a proud supporter of AmeriCorps, I will continue to advocate for these programs across West Virginia.”

Capito shared his sentiment.

“West Virginians understand the value of community service, and are always first in line to help fellow residents in times of need,” Capito said. “These projects from AmeriCorps announced today will help continue this commitment to service, while providing a boost to our communities. From helping individuals complete their taxes, to improving our public parks and recreation sites, I look forward to seeing the impact these projects will have in West Virginia.”