Nevada Volunteers News and Press

NEVADA VOLUNTEERS WELCOMES NEW STATE AMERICORPS DIRECTOR

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

RENO|LAS VEGAS, Jan 23, 2012 -- Nevada Volunteers, the state commission on national and community service, welcomes Amber Martin-Jahn as their new AmeriCorps Program Officer. Seven AmeriCorps programs in eight Nevada counties will be under her direction. AmeriCorps members provide support to local nonprofits to address Nevada’s unmet needs in education, public safety, human services, and conservation. In 2010-2011, these programs involved 361 AmeriCorps members in a year of national service, which brought a combined $7,200,329 worth of assistance to Nevada communities such as Elko, Winnemucca, Reno, and Las Vegas. Amber Martin-Jahn has the professional expertise to enhance the value of these programs to the state even more.

“Nevada Volunteers is thrilled to have someone of Amber’s caliber join our team,” said Shawn Lecker-Pomaville, CEO of Nevada Volunteers. “Her extensive experience in public service and her understanding of the social issues impacting the lives of everyone in Nevada’s communities will be an incredible asset in guiding our AmeriCorps Programs toward building a stronger Nevada.”

Prior to joining Nevada Volunteers, Amber worked as the City of Reno Senior Services Liaison where she supervised Senior Recreation and Outreach, working daily to identify and address quality of life issues affecting older adults in Washoe County through strategic partnerships/collaborations with providers, agencies and area municipalities.

Amber is the current President of Truckee Meadows Tomorrow (TMT), a non-profit organization known for its grassroots approach to quality of life measurement in Northern Nevada. Amber first became involved with TMT as a volunteer on the TMT Blue Ribbon Task force, which examined and collected community input and re-vamped the community indicators utilized to measure quality of life by TMT.

Amber has both a Bachelor in Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, and completed her Master in Social Work in 2002, all from the University of Nevada, Reno. Additionally, Amber is a licensed social worker. Amber’s academic work has focused on individual and community integration of perceived personal values related to human rights. Working in municipal government to access and provide services for seniors, and with State Government for individuals with disabilities, provided Amber with not only detailed experience in barriers to quality of life, but a unique systems perspective as Nevada looks at how to impact quality of life through volunteerism.

About Nevada Volunteers
Nevada Volunteers, formerly known as Nevada Commission for National and Community Service, creates countless opportunities for individuals, organizations, and businesses across Nevada to engage in volunteering and shape a culture of service and citizenship. Nevada Volunteers is the Governor's Commission that administers AmeriCorps programs statewide, sponsors the annual Points of Light Awards, and promotes volunteerism. Since 1998, over 2,232 AmeriCorps members have served through Nevada Volunteers, providing 1,696,800 hours of service to northern, southern and rural communities. Those members were awarded approximately $4.4 million in higher education awards, recruited 38,147 additional volunteers who donated 295,504 hours of volunteer service valued at $5,888,680.
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A Proclamation by the Governor

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

WHEREAS, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. devoted his life to building a more perfect union for all and challenged Americans to see service to others as one of life’s fundamental missions; and

WHEREAS, this year marks the 26th anniversary of the Martin Luther King Holiday, which has been designated by Congress as a national day of volunteer service since 1994; and

WHEREAS, the King Day of Service offers an opportunity for Nevadans to serve their neighbors, create solutions to community problems, and make a commitment to renew our state by making a difference throughout the year; and

WHEREAS, one of my initiatives is about the importance of volunteering and the importance of service above self which is born out in the programs of Nevada Volunteers, the state commission for national and community service, which inspired 19,313 Nevadans to provide more than 398,720 volunteer service hours through AmeriCorps in 2011; and

WHEREAS, these projects include the building of homes for Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas,
in partnership with Great Basin Institute’s Nevada Conservation Corps AmeriCorps program; and

WHEREAS, these projects include a Sunday Supper engaging Reno teens in service sponsored by the Children’s Cabinet AmeriCorps members; and

WHEREAS, these projects include “A day on, Not a Day off” with United Way of Southern Nevada and Luz Community Development AmeriCorps members beautifying and cleaning up of the City Impact Center in Las Vegas; and

WHEREAS, these projects include Fire Safety Canvassing in Elko and Winnemucca with the Nevada Outdoor School AmeriCorps Members and the Nevada Red Cross as well as a Non-Profit services fair in Winnemucca being produced by AmeriCorps members at the Nevada Outdoor School; and

WHEREAS, citizens of Nevada have an opportunity to participate in events throughout our
state on the King Day of Service, January 16, 2012, as well as create and implement community
service projects where they identify the need; and

WHEREAS, service above self is a cornerstone of my administration as Governor;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BRIAN SANDOVAL, Governor of the State of Nevada proclaim January 16, 2012 as
A DAY OF SERVICE IN NEVADA

Nevadans Make MLK Day "A Day On, Not A Day Off"

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

RENO|LAS VEGAS, Jan 10, 2012 – Nevada Volunteers, the state commission on national and community service, highlights the MLK Day holiday as a time for service in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. who said, “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” Volunteer events are planned in every corner of Nevada, with Nevada Volunteers’ AmeriCorps programs leading the way to pay tribute to this great man by building a stronger Nevada through service.

“In this time of economic hardship, service is a powerful way for citizens, nonprofits, the private sector, faith-based organizations, and government to work together to meet critical needs,” said Shawn Lecker-Pomaville, CEO of Nevada Volunteers. “Governor Sandoval has made service a cornerstone of his administration, and as his commission on service, we applaud the contribution Nevadans will make to their communities across the state during the MLK Day holiday.”

AmeriCorps members will be organizing and participating in service events statewide:
• United Way of Southern Nevada AmeriCorps and Luz Community Development Corporation AmeriCorps members will host a public day of service to clean up the City Impact Center in Las Vegas.
• AmeriCorps Members from the Great Basin Institute-Nevada Conservation Corps will serve at a Habitat for Humanity project in Las Vegas, using their team perspective and tool-savvy skills to help with the construction of a home.
• In Reno, Children’s Cabinet AmeriCorps members will engage local teens in a discussion of Dr. King’s challenge to serve the community over a “Sunday Supper” prepared by the AmeriCorps members.
• Rural Northern Nevada AmeriCorps members from the Nevada Outdoor School have organized a Nonprofit Community Services Fair for Winnemucca, showcasing many local nonprofit groups along with a project for the community to participate in.
• In both Winnemucca and Elko, Nevada Outdoor School AmeriCorps members have partnered with the American Red Cross to engage volunteers in a fire prevention campaign.

For more information on these and other MLK Day of Service events see the attached resource sheet or go to http://nevadavolunteers.volunteermatch.org/news/index.jsp.

About Nevada Volunteers
Nevada Volunteers, formerly known as Nevada Commission for National and Community Service, creates countless opportunities for individuals, organizations, and businesses across Nevada to engage in volunteering and shape a culture of service and citizenship. Nevada Volunteers is the Governor's Commission that administers AmeriCorps programs statewide, sponsors the annual Points of Light Awards, and promotes volunteerism. Since 1998, over 2,232 AmeriCorps members have served through Nevada Volunteers, providing 1,696,800 hours of service to northern, southern and rural communities. Those members were awarded approximately $4.4 million in higher education awards, recruited 38,147 additional volunteers who donated 295,504 hours of volunteer service valued at $5,888,680.
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2011 Governor�s Points of Light Award Recipients Announced

Tue, 1 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

LAS VEGAS|RENO, October 31 -- Governor Brian Sandoval and more than 250 guests watched with excitement and pride as six of this year’s 18 finalists were honored with the 2011 Governors’ Points of Light Award on October 27th at the Rio All Suite Hotel and Casino. The event, organized and hosted by Nevada Volunteers, the state commission on national and community service, celebrates community members, businesses, nonprofits, and volunteer managers for outstanding volunteer efforts throughout the state of Nevada.

During his keynote address, Governor Sandoval reiterated the importance of service above self, the value of volunteers, and the importance of serving through AmeriCorps programs. “Nevada Volunteers is privileged to host these awards each year,” said Shawn Lecker-Pomaville, CEO of Nevada Volunteers. “The Governor’s Points of Light Awards remind us that the state of Nevada is made stronger and better because of the service of our selfless volunteers.”

2011 Point of Light Recipients

Individual Volunteer: Southern Nevada
Frank Mahoney (Henderson)
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Volunteer

Individual Volunteer: Northern Nevada
Darryl Feemster (Reno)
Project Solution Volunteer

Individual Volunteer: Rural
Kent Aveson (Elko)
City of Elko Volunteer

Volunteer Manager
Gabrielle Totten (Reno)
Trauma Intervention Program of Northern Nevada (TIPS)

Nonprofit Volunteer Program
Three Square Food Bank of Las Vegas (Las Vegas) Volunteers

Corporate and Business Volunteer Program
NV Energy (statewide) Employees

RECIPIENT INTERVIEW OPPORTUNTIES AVAILABLE

About Nevada Volunteers
Nevada Volunteers, formerly known as Nevada Commission for National and Community Service, creates countless opportunities for individuals, organizations, and businesses across Nevada to engage in volunteering and shape a culture of service and citizenship. Nevada Volunteers is the Governor's Commission that administers AmeriCorps programs statewide, sponsors the annual Points of Light Awards, and promotes volunteerism. Since 1998, over 2,232 AmeriCorps members have served through Nevada Volunteers, providing 1,696,800 hours of service to northern, southern and rural communities. Those members were awarded approximately $4.4 million in higher education awards, recruited 38,147 additional volunteers who donated 295,504 hours of volunteer service valued at $5,888,680. For more visit, www.nevadavolunteers.org.

GOVERNOR�S COMMISSION WELCOMES TWO NEW MEMBERS Brandon Thompson and Jeremy Stocking Join Nevada Volunteers� Board

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

RENO|LAS VEGAS, Oct 12 -- Governor Brian Sandoval has appointed two Commissioners to serve with Nevada Volunteers, the state commission for national and community service. Jeremy Stocking and Brandon Thompson, are the board’s newest members.

Nevada Volunteers is pleased to have these two exceptional individuals join the Commission,” said Shawn Lecker-Pomaville, CEO of Nevada Volunteers. “As we work to inspire more Nevadans to volunteer, the Commission looks forward to tapping their perspective on working with youth and families.”

Brandon Thompson is a FYI Case Manager for the Children’s Cabinet, providing screening and referrals to appropriate community resources for families and youth that participate in family strengthening programs. He has many years of experience working in youth programs in the Reno area and has an Associate of Arts in Science from Olympic College in Bremerton, Washington.

Jeremy Stocking has been a Work Experience Program Coordinator for the Children’s Cabinet for two years as well as being an Endoscopy Technician at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center since 2001. He has a degree in Social Work from the University of Nevada, Reno, and has experience as a Case Manager, an Offender Workforce Development Specialist, and a RAD Kids Instructor for Washoe County.

About Nevada Volunteers
Nevada Volunteers, formerly known as Nevada Commission for National and Community Service, creates countless opportunities for individuals, organizations, and businesses across Nevada to engage in volunteering and shape a culture of service and citizenship. Nevada Volunteers is the Governor's Commission that administers AmeriCorps programs statewide, sponsors the annual Points of Light Awards, and promotes volunteerism. Since 1998, over 2,232 AmeriCorps members have served through Nevada Volunteers, providing 1,696,800 hours of service to northern, southern and rural communities. Those members were awarded approximately $4.4 million in higher education awards, recruited 38,147 additional volunteers who donated 295,504 hours of volunteer service valued at $5,888,680.
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10th Annual Governor�s Points of Light Awards Announces18 FinalistsAnnual Event Recognizes Outstanding Volunteer Service throughout Nevada

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

RENO|LAS VEGAS, Sept 27 – Nevada Volunteers, the state commission on national and community service, announces the top three finalists in six categories for the 2011 Governor’s Points of Light Awards. The luncheon event will be held at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, in Las Vegas, on October 27, 2011 at 11:30 am.

Governor Brian Sandoval is scheduled to be on hand to announce the six recipients of the award and deliver the keynote address. Kevin Janison, of News 3-Las Vegas, will serve as the event Master of Ceremonies.

Individual Volunteer: Southern Nevada
Dr. Florence Jameson, M.D. (Las Vegas)
Tammy Richardson (Las Vegas)
Frank Mahoney (Henderson)

Individual Volunteer: Northern Nevada
Chris Reed (Reno)
Michael Ginsburg (Reno)
Darryl Feemster (Reno)

Individual Volunteer: Rural
Sandy Jennings (Pahrump)
Kent Aveson (Elko)
Robert Bilbray (Laughlin)

Volunteer Managers
Rebecca Dirks Garcia (Las Vegas)
Cynthia “Cindy” Craft (Henderson)
Gabrielle Totton (Reno)

Nonprofit Volunteer Programs
Nathan Adelson Hospice (Las Vegas)
Three Square Food Bank (Las Vegas)
Trauma Intervention Program of Northern Nevada (Reno)

Corporate and Business Volunteer Programs
Blue Moon Promotions (Reno, NV)
NV Energy (statewide)
MGM Resorts Employee Volunteer Program (Las Vegas, NV)

“The finalists have been selected from a field of over 120 extraordinary candidates,” said Shawn Lecker-Pomaville, CEO of Nevada Volunteers. “They represent inspirational examples of what Nevadans have done and are doing across the state to improve their communities. We salute all the nominees for making service above self a powerful reality in our state.”

For more information or to register, please visit www.nevadavolunteers.org .

About Nevada Volunteers
Nevada Volunteers, formerly known as Nevada Commission for National and Community Service, creates countless opportunities for individuals, organizations, and businesses across Nevada to engage in volunteering and shape a culture of service and citizenship. Nevada Volunteers is the Governor's Commission that administers AmeriCorps programs statewide, sponsors the annual Points of Light Awards, and promotes volunteerism. Since 1998, over 2,232 AmeriCorps members have served through Nevada Volunteers, providing 1,696,800 hours of service to northern, southern and rural communities. Those members were awarded approximately $4.4 million in higher education awards, recruited 38,147 additional volunteers who donated 295,504 hours of volunteer service valued at $5,888,680.
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GOVERNOR SANDOVAL TO SPEAK AT VOLUNTEER AWARDS LUNCHEONNevada�s Governor to Keynote the 2011 Governor�s Points of Light Awards

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

RENO|LAS VEGAS, September 15 -- Governor Brian Sandoval is scheduled to be the keynote speaker for the 10th Annual Governor’s Points of Light Awards Luncheon in Las Vegas, Nevada. This event is organized by Nevada Volunteers, the state commission on national and community service, to celebrate community members, businesses, nonprofits, and volunteer managers for outstanding volunteer efforts in the state of Nevada.

“During his inaugural speech, Governor Sandoval emphasized the importance of service above self,” said Shawn Lecker-Pomaville, CEO of Nevada Volunteers, “so we are very excited to have him address the service community and help acknowledge those who devote so much time and energy to making Nevada a better place.”

The Governor’s Points of Light Awards highlight service by honoring outstanding volunteers and volunteer programs across the state with finalists and award recipients in six separate categories. They will be recognized during the luncheon at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on October 27, 2011 at 11:30 a.m.

Registration for the luncheon will be open until noon on October 24, 2011. Business sponsorship opportunities are available. For further information visit www.nevadavolunteers.org, call (775) 825-1900, or email pol@nevadavolunteers.org.

About Nevada Volunteers
Nevada Volunteers, formerly known as Nevada Commission for National and Community Service, creates countless opportunities for individuals, organizations, and businesses across Nevada to engage in volunteering and shape a culture of service and citizenship. Nevada Volunteers is the Governor's Commission that administers AmeriCorps programs statewide, sponsors the annual Points of Light Awards, and promotes volunteerism. Since 1998, over 2,232 AmeriCorps members have served through Nevada Volunteers, providing 1,696,800 hours of service to northern, southern and rural communities. Those members were awarded approximately $4.4 million in higher education awards, recruited 38,147 additional volunteers who donated 295,504 hours of volunteer service valued at $5,888,680.
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NEW STUDY GIVES A SNAPSHOT OF VOLUNTEERING IN NEVADANevada�s Volunteer Hours per Resident Jumps Almost 20%

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT

RENO|LAS VEGAS, Aug 22 -- Nevada Volunteers, the state commission on national and community service, works to strengthen the volunteer infrastructure in Nevada. A recent study by the Corporation for National and Community Service indicates some gains and some remaining challenges in making Nevada, as Governor Sandoval aspires, a place where service above self is the norm.

According to Volunteering in America, an annual report about the state of volunteerism in the United States, Nevada’s 2010 volunteer rate remains unchanged from 2009. While the rate of Nevadans who volunteer is at 20.7%, lower than the national average, the number of hours per resident and the volunteer retention rate for Nevada are above the national average.

Nevadans who volunteer put in more hours than average—49.6 hours per resident. This is a 19% increase from last year’s average of 30.9 hours and has helped increase our ranking (based on a 3 year average) to 19th among the 50 states and Washington, D.C. In fact, Reno was ranked 4th within the 75 mid-size cities included in the survey because citizens of Reno volunteered at the rate of 60 hours per resident. Las Vegans volunteered at the rate of 48.6 hours per resident, an increase of 20% from 2009 when it was 28.5 hours.

Nevada also has a higher than average retention rate for volunteers, at 65.7%, and ranks 28th among the states and Washington D.C. for volunteers who continue to serve from the previous year. Volunteer retention is a critical factor in building a strong ethic of service in the state.

“It is important to keep the focus on volunteerism, especially in stressful economic times when the need is so great. Nevada Volunteers spreads the word about volunteering in several ways,” said Shawn Lecker-Pomaville, CEO of Nevada Volunteers. “Our annual Governor’s Points of Light Awards recognize volunteers and volunteer programs across the state. We also offer a free volunteer-matching website, support a growing campus volunteer initiative, promote skilled-based volunteering, and our statewide AmeriCorps program members have recruited and managed 7,427 volunteers throughout the state.”

Lecker-Pomaville explains there is more work to be done. In 2010, 418,107 Nevada residents volunteered 100.3 million hours of service through a nonprofit or community organization. This ranks Nevada 50th in the nation in terms of volunteer rate. In addition, 7.0 percent of Nevada residents volunteered informally, such as neighbors helping neighbors or in ad hoc groups to address a community issue.

The survey cites several factors which may influence the volunteer rate in Nevada. Nevada’s high unemployment rate and high foreclosure rate correspond to a lower volunteer rate. There are also fewer nonprofits in Nevada, which may help to explain a lower rate. Nationally, there are 4.55 nonprofit organizations per 1,000 residents, while in Nevada there are only 2.74 per 1,000 residents. Nevada also has fewer college graduates than average, at 21.8% versus 27.9%, which can depress the volunteer rate.

“Despite all these hardships,” said Lecker-Pomaville, “our commission is committed to inspiring and valuing one of the state’s most valuable resources, Nevada’s volunteers.”

Data from this study is available from www.volunteeringinamerica.gov.
To view data for Nevada, go to: http://www.volunteeringinamerica.gov/NV
For data focused on Reno, go to: http://www.volunteeringinamerica.gov/NV/Reno
For Las Vegas data, go to: http://www.volunteeringinamerica.gov/NV/Las-Vegas

About Nevada Volunteers
Nevada Volunteers, formerly known as Nevada Commission for National and Community Service, creates countless opportunities for individuals, organizations, and businesses across Nevada to engage in volunteering and shape a culture of service and citizenship. Nevada Volunteers is the Governor's Commission that administers AmeriCorps programs statewide, sponsors the annual Points of Light Awards, and promotes volunteerism. Since 1998, over 2,232 AmeriCorps members have served through Nevada Volunteers, providing 1,696,800 hours of service to northern, southern and rural communities. Those members were awarded approximately $4.4 million in higher education awards, recruited 38,147 additional volunteers who donated 295,504 hours of volunteer service valued at $5,888,680.
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THE 2011 GOVERNOR�S POINTS OF LIGHT AWARD DEADLINE EXTENDEDGovernor Brian Sandoval Invites Nevadans to Nominate Volunteers for Awards

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT

RENO|LAS VEGAS, Aug 16 -- Nevada Volunteers and Governor Brian Sandoval invites Nevadans across the state to nominate a deserving individual or group for the 10th Annual 2011 Governor’s Points of Light Award. The nomination deadline has been extended to August 29, 2011 at 5:00 p.m.

The award, which recognizes the dedication, leadership, and innovation of volunteers and volunteer programs throughout Nevada, will honor recipients and finalists in six service areas:

Three Individuals from the following regions: Northern Nevada. Southern Nevada, Rural Nevada
Nonprofit and community organization volunteer programs
Volunteer managers, paid or unpaid
Corporate and business volunteer programs

Steve Schorr, Vice-President of Cox Communications, can attest to the significance of being nominated for the award. “In today’s world, volunteering your time to help your community is one of the most valuable things you can do, he said. Being honored for such volunteerism brings with it the richest personal reward.” In 2005, Schorr was a Southern Nevada Points of Light Award recipient for his countless volunteer initiatives on behalf of youth, families, and local schools. His award still sits proudly in the glass case of one of those elementary schools to share with the students.

Last year’s Rural Nevada Points of Light recipient, Elyse Gut, recommends that everyone consider nominating a deserving volunteer or volunteer program for the award. “If you know a person or program in your community who has made a difference in the lives of people, they deserve recognition. The joy of volunteering is contagious. Nominate one person, and ten more will want to experience the joy of volunteering.” Gut was honored for her many years and endless hours of service to Tahoe Family Solutions in Incline Village, Nevada.

The 2011 Governor’s Points of Light Awards Luncheon will be held at the Rio All Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada on October 27, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. For more information or to download a nomination packet visit, www.nevadavolunteers.org.

About Nevada Volunteers
Nevada Volunteers, formerly known as Nevada Commission for National and Community Service, creates countless opportunities for individuals, organizations, and businesses across Nevada to engage in volunteering and shape a culture of service and citizenship. Nevada Volunteers is the Governor's Commission that administers AmeriCorps programs statewide, sponsors the annual Points of Light Awards, and promotes volunteerism. Since 1998, over 2,232 AmeriCorps members have served through Nevada Volunteers, providing 1,696,800 hours of service to northern, southern and rural communities. Those members were awarded approximately $4.4 million in higher education awards, recruited 38,147 additional volunteers who donated 295,504 hours of volunteer service valued at $5,888,680.
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GOVERNOR SANDOVAL APPOINTS TWO NEW MEMBERS TO STATE COMMISSIONNevada Volunteers Welcomes Commissioners Jonathan Senda and Debra Gallo

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT

RENO/LAS VEGAS — Governor Brian Sandoval has named two new Commissioners and reappointed four Commissioners to serve with Nevada Volunteers, the state commission for national and community service. Jonathan Senda, an AmeriCorps Program Coordinator, and Debra Gallo, Director of Government and State Regulatory Affairs for Southwest Gas, are the board’s newest members.

“Nevada Volunteers welcomes these exceptional new and returning members of our commission,” said Shawn Lecker-Pomaville, CEO of Nevada Volunteers. “We look forward to drawing on their talents and expertise to help us further national and community service in Nevada.”

Jonathan Senda, as Youth Commissioner, will represent Nevada’s youth as a voting member of the board. He is currently attending Nevada State College while also serving as Program Coordinator for The Embracing Project in Las Vegas, which helps educate at-risk youth about the similarities between gang activity and genocide. Besides his national AmeriCorps service, Senda has been an active volunteer in the Las Vegas community, facilitating a conference for Latino youth to promote higher education and serving as a facilitator at Camp Mi Gente, which focuses on youth leadership. He is also active in St. Francis de Sales Roman Catholic Church as a teacher and retreat team leader.

Debra Gallo resides in Las Vegas and has been a Southwest Gas employee for more than 20 years. Gallo oversees all of the company’s activities associated with local and state regulatory and administrative agencies, commissions and consumer advocates, as well as its conservation and energy efficiency activities. She also plans, directs, and executes company activities related to Government Affairs in Nevada and California. Prior to joining the company, Gallo worked for Nevada Power Company in Las Vegas (now NV Energy) and the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. She earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Ohio State University. Actively involved in her community, Gallo currently serves on the boards of directors for the Girl Scouts of Southern Nevada, Green Chips, and is a member of the State Energy Partnership Council. She is also a past board member and current volunteer for the American Heart Association.

Governor Sandoval has also reappointed Tiffinay Pagni of Reno, the Board Chair; Christina Lane of Reno, the Board Secretary; Janice Ayres of Carson City; and Brian Catlett of Las Vegas, the Board Vice-Chair.

About Nevada Volunteers
Nevada Volunteers, formerly known as Nevada Commission for National and Community Service, creates countless opportunities for individuals, organizations, and businesses across Nevada to engage in volunteering and shape a culture of service and citizenship. Nevada Volunteers is the Governor's Commission that administers AmeriCorps programs statewide, sponsors the annual Points of Light Awards, and promotes volunteerism. Since 1998, over 2,232 AmeriCorps members have served through Nevada Volunteers, providing 1,696,800 hours of service to northern, southern and rural communities. Those members were awarded approximately $4.4 million in higher education awards, recruited 38,147 additional volunteers who donated 295,504 hours of volunteer service valued at $5,888,680.
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THE 2011 GOVERNOR�S POINTS OF LIGHT AWARD NOMINATIONS ARE OPENGovernor Brian Sandoval Invites Nevadans to Nominate Volunteers for Awards

Fri, 1 Jul 2011 00:00:00 GMT

RENO/LAS VEGAS — Nevada Volunteers, along with Governor Brian Sandoval, invites Nevadans across the state to nominate a deserving individual or group for the 10th Annual 2011 Governor’s Points of Light Award. These awards will recognize the dedication, leadership, and innovation of volunteers and volunteer programs throughout Nevada. Recipients and finalists will be honored in six service areas:
• 3 individuals from the following regions
o Northern Nevada
o Southern Nevada
o Rural Nevada
• Nonprofit and community organizations
• Volunteer managers
• Corporate and business volunteer programs

Since 2001, Nevada Volunteers, the state commission on national and community service, has held the Governor’s Points of Light Awards to inspire Nevadans to make a positive impact in the state. “Nevada Volunteers is pleased to provide this prestigious opportunity to recognize everyday citizens and organizations in Nevada who have been leading lights in making a difference,” said Shawn Lecker-Pomaville, the CEO of Nevada Volunteers. “We encourage everyone to take the time to nominate one of these very special volunteer stars.”

Nomination packages can be downloaded from the Nevada Volunteers website at www.nevadavolunteers.org . Nominations must be submitted no later than August 15, 2011 by 5:00 p.m.

“Volunteer efforts are indispensable to the quality of life we enjoy in Nevada,” said Governor Brian Sandoval in his invitation letter. “While volunteers may not seek recognition, it is important to acknowledge these caring individuals, nonprofit groups, and businesses that give so much back to their neighbors.”

The recipients will be recognized at the 2011 Governor’s Points of Light Awards Luncheon at the Rio All Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada on October 27, 2011 at 11:30 a.m.

About Nevada Volunteers
Nevada Volunteers, formerly known as Nevada Commission for National and Community Service, creates countless opportunities for individuals, organizations, and businesses across Nevada to engage in volunteering and shape a culture of service and citizenship. Nevada Volunteers is the Governor's Commission that administers AmeriCorps programs statewide, sponsors the annual Points of Light Awards, and promotes volunteerism. Since 1998, over 2,232 AmeriCorps members have served through Nevada Volunteers, providing 1,696,800 hours of service to northern, southern and rural communities. Those members were awarded approximately $4.4 million in higher education awards, recruited 38,147 additional volunteers who donated 295,504 hours of volunteer service valued at $5,888,680.
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Nominations Open for 2011 Governor's Poitns of Light AwardsNominate a Volunteer or Group for Outstanding Volunteer Efforts in Nevada

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Nevada Volunteers, along with Governor Brian Sandoval, invites Nevadans to nominate a deserving individual or group for the 2011 Governor’s Points of Light Award. These awards will recognize the dedication, leadership, and innovation of volunteers and volunteer programs throughout Nevada. Recipients and finalists will be honored in six service areas:

3 individuals from the following regions: Northern Nevada, Southern Nevada, and Rural Nevada
Nonprofit and community organizations
Volunteer managers
Corporate and business volunteer programs

Nomination packages can be downloaded from the Nevada Volunteers website at www.nevadavolunteers.org .

Nominations must be submitted no later than August 15, 2011 by 5:00 p.m.

The recipients will be recognized at the 10th Annual 2011 Governor’s Points of Light Awards Luncheon at the Rio All Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada on October 27, 2011 at 11:30 a.m.

STATEWIDE NATIONAL SERVICE PROGRAM WINS HIGHLY COMPETITIVE GRANTNevada Volunteers Announces Nevada Conservation Corps Receives Federal Funding

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

RENO/LAS VEGAS — Nevada Volunteers is pleased to announce that the Great Basin Institute’s Nevada Conservation Corps AmeriCorps Program has received a national 2011 AmeriCorps grant from the Corporation for National and Community Service. This grant will fund 143 AmeriCorps member positions and bring $613,699 of federal funds into the state this coming year. The Nevada Conservation Corps (NCC) program operates statewide, providing a range of services to Nevada such as reducing wildfire risk or removing invasive species on public lands as well as public education activities on clean energy and environmental stewardship.

“Due to the growing demand by organizations seeking AmeriCorps resources, these grants were so competitive that only the most exceptional proposals were funded,” said Shawn Lecker-Pomaville, CEO of Nevada Volunteers. “The Nevada Conservation Corps AmeriCorps program has proved to be extremely effective, maximizing federal dollars to provide this public service to Nevada with the highest level of accountability, integrity, and transparency.”

In 2010 alone, NCC AmeriCorps members removed invasive species from 10,598 acres statewide, planted 16,991 plants and trees, removed hazardous fuels from 321 acres of public land, and built, maintained, or decommissioned 250.5 miles of wilderness trails and roads. In addition, they engaged 867 students in environmental education programs and recruited 1,249 volunteers who donated 28,277 hours of community service.

Perhaps the most valuable contribution of the NCC is the opportunity it provides to Nevadans to step up and serve their state. Especially during these difficult economic times, it is vitally important to have ways for people to gain valuable experience while contributing to their local communities. Says Dannyn Smith, the 2010 AmeriCorps Member of the Year and an Alum of NCC: “Volunteer work has enriched my life on a grand scale. There is nothing I would rather do than be part of something bigger than myself.”

Attached is a photo of new Nevada Conservation Corps recruits taking their oath of service at Galena Regional Park in Reno, Nevada on May 20, 2011.

About Nevada Volunteers
Nevada Volunteers, formerly known as Nevada Commission for National and Community Service, creates countless opportunities for individuals, organizations, and businesses across Nevada to engage in volunteering and shape a culture of service and citizenship. Nevada Volunteers is the Governor's Commission that administers AmeriCorps programs statewide, sponsors the annual Points of Light Awards, and promotes volunteerism. Since 1998, over 2,232 AmeriCorps members have served through Nevada Volunteers, providing 1,696,800 hours of service to northern, southern and rural communities. Those members were awarded approximately $4.4 million in higher education awards, recruited 38,147 additional volunteers who donated 295,504 hours of volunteer service valued at $5,888,680.

Celebrate AmeriCorps Week with Nevada Volunteers!Nevada's AmeriCorps Story: May 14-21st

Mon, 16 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

During May 14-21st, AmeriCorps Week 2011 will be in full swing! AmeriCorps Week is an opportunity for AmeriCorps members, alums, grantees, and program partners to join together to highlight the benefits and accomplishments of these great programs.

This year, Nevada will be hosting AmeriCorps Week events in both Southern and Northern Nevada. Northern Nevada's event will be hosted at Galena Park on May 20th. It will be an exciting occasion as Summer Service members are sworn in for Nevada Conservation Corps through the Great Basin Institute. It will be a great time to reflect on how much AmeriCorps members do for our state as they continue to pursue service as a solution.

In Southern Nevada, the National 9/11 Flag Tour joined the United of Southern Nevada and the Volunteer Center of Southern Nevada on May 12th, destroyed in the collapse of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001 and stitched back together seven years later by disaster survivor volunteers in Greensburg, Kansas, The National 9/11 Flag is a living testament to the resilience and compassion of the American people. AmeriCorps members will have a chance to stitch their own piece onto this magical flag. The goal is to make The National 9/11 Flag whole again by the 10th Year Anniversary of 9/11. Once complete, The National 9/11 Flag will become a part of the permanent collection of The National September 11 Memorial & Museum being built at Ground Zero where it will tell the story for generations to come of all the Americans who came together to stitch this flag back to life in the same spirit of service and volunteerism that united our Nation on 9/12.

At each event, National Service Awards will be given by Nevada Volunteers for AmeriCorps*State Member of the Year for the northern and southern areas. Nominees this year for Northern Nevada included: Brandon Morales from Children's Cabinet, Vanessa Nesbitt from Parasol-Tahoe Community Foundation, and Joe Otts from Great Basin Institute - Nevada Conservation Corps. Southern Nevada nominees include: Brittany Lorich and Jessica Perlick, both serving through the United Way of Southern Nevada. Other awards will include AmeriCorps*VISTA of the Year, AmeriCorps*SeniorCorps Member of the Year, and AmeriCorps*State Program Director of the Year.

Congratulations to the winners: Jessica Perlick who serves through the United Way of Southern Nevada for Southern AmeriCorps*State Member of the Year; Vanessa Nesbitt who serves through Parasol-Tahoe Community Foundation for Northern AmeriCorps*State Member of the Year; Alexandra Ellison who serves through the Honors Department at the University of Nevada and Cindy Ringer who serves through Nevada Youth Empowerment Project for AmeriCorps*VISTA of the Year; Don Edwards who serves through Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada/RSVP's Telephone Reassurance Program; and Julie McKnight, Program Director of Great Basin Institute's Clean Energy AmeriCorps program for AmeriCorps*State Director of the Year.

To find out more about Nevada AmeriCorps*State programs, please visit www.nevadavolunteers.org.

Expressions of Homelessness: Representations through the Arts

Mon, 16 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Nevada Volunteers' AmeriCorps*VISTA, Alexandra Ellison created a project this year that would reach out to those in need, connect campus life with the community, and creatively present the community with a new way to look at an old problem: homelessness. Alex partnered with the Volunteers of America Reno Family Shelter and University of Nevada Reno's English Department to create a poignant and touching project. English professors donated their time and expertise while meeting with clients of the Volunteers of America every Thursday for the past eight weeks, encouraging them to embrace their emotions and experiences through writing and poetry.

Every week, a different faculty member led the workshop, first introducing a poet and their style of writing. The attendees, ranging from children to adults, then used that model to create their own poem.

These pieces were collected along with photography taken by University senior Arielle Murphy and sophomore Jennice Rodriguez who worked with Peter Goin, Foundation Professor of Art in Photography and Videography, to take photos for the project of homeless individuals throughout the community. The collection opened at the DeLaMare Library in the Mackay Mines Building at the University of Nevada on April 21st with a special performance by Spoken Views of Reno and continued until May 9th.

Attendees enjoyed the exhibit expressing that it brought an awareness of those in our community that are less fortunate, but don't often get to express their thoughts and feelings. "Volunteers of America staff and shelter residents were thrilled to partner with Nevada Volunteers and UNR faculty and students on this incredibly uplifting and empowering project. Shelter residents enjoyed the creative expression, and we at Volunteers of America are delighted that the project helped expand the dialogue about poverty and homelessness in our community,” Sandy Isham, Development & Community Relations Officer for Volunteers of America.