Guided by Gratitude: A Roundtable with the AmeriCorps Volunteers Making a Difference

They came from all across the country—big cities, small towns, coast to coast. Each brought a sense of purpose, a commitment to serve, and the values shaped by the families and communities that raised them. Now, they’re serving in Bath County—partnering with the U.S. Forest Service and lending their time to a range of local volunteer efforts.

In this special roundtable interview, five AmeriCorps members share what led them to national service, what they’re learning in the field, and how rural life is shaping their perspective. Their reflections on mentorship, purpose, and the future are as grounded as they are inspiring.

I was humbled by their shared sense of service—the way they spoke about the people who guided them, the work they’re doing, and the responsibility they feel to give back.

AmeriCorps was established in 1993 through the National and Community Service Trust Act, signed by President Bill Clinton. Since then, more than 900,000 members have contributed over 1.2 billion hours of service—responding to natural disasters, supporting schools, conserving our environment, and strengthening communities across the country.