Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) has announced its response to sudden and widespread cuts to AmeriCorps State and National program grants, which included the termination of its AmeriCorps Nevada grant. The decision is part of what NOS described as “unprecedented cuts” that affected more than 1,000 service programs nationwide.
Since launching its AmeriCorps program in 2002, Nevada Outdoor School has hosted 348 AmeriCorps members. According to the organization, those members have contributed hundreds of thousands of service hours to rural communities across northern Nevada by supporting youth, advancing outdoor education, and strengthening community resilience.
“Our AmeriCorps members are the heart of Nevada Outdoor School,” said Executive Director Melanie Erquiaga. “Their service has helped us connect thousands of children and families to the outdoors, foster stewardship of Nevada’s unique landscapes, and invest in the health and strength of our communities. While this sudden grant termination is a setback, it does not define us.”
NOS reported that the AmeriCorps funding loss affects less than 25% of its annual budget. The organization stated it remains fully operational and will continue delivering its mission to inspire exploration, stewardship, and community involvement.
To help current AmeriCorps members transition smoothly, NOS is working with the Great Basin Institute to move members into the Institute’s National Conservation Corps Program. This partnership is intended to preserve member benefits, including living stipends, health insurance, and education awards.
“We want our community to know: Nevada Outdoor School is not closing its doors,” said Erquiaga. “We are still here, still serving, and we are still hiring summer AmeriCorps members to support our outdoor camps and youth programming. The application and onboarding process remains open, and our commitment to service is stronger than ever.”
According to NOS, its AmeriCorps members have collectively earned more than $1.8 million in Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards since the program began, supporting their education and professional goals.
“This moment is a call to action. Not only for those affected but for anyone who believes in the power of national service to uplift communities,” the organization stated. NOS is encouraging community members to share their stories, attend programs, and contact representatives in support of AmeriCorps and national service.
“We are resilient,” said Erquiaga. “And with the support of our partners, funders, and community, we will continue to provide opportunities for young leaders to serve, grow, and make a difference.”
More information, including donation options and summer service applications, is available at nevadaoutdoorschool.org.