Energy Express is a great opportunity for college students to serve with AmeriCorps, as well as for volunteers to read with children during the summer.

Energy Express AmeriCorps members have the opportunity to take responsibility, be a positive role model, learn valuable skills, and make a difference in someone's life - all while serving their communities

Energy Express is a summer reading and nutrition program that targets low-income and rural West Virginia children with a focus on reading. 

In the summer of 2007, Energy Express had 78 sites in 41 counties across West Virginia, including Mineral County. 

Since its inception in 1994, children participating in Energy Express have increased or maintained their reading skills over the summer and have received 58 percent of their daily nutritional requirements. 

Brittany Haines, an AmeriCorps member at the Romney site, says, “It truly wasn't the students that needed to change; it was my way of thinkingŠ.I had to realize that there are others who are not that fortunate and everyday life can be a challenge for them.”  

So, what is AmeriCorps?

AmeriCorps is a national service program whose members help meet the nation's critical needs in the areas of public safety, education, homeland security and the environment.

Through more than 400 sponsors, AmeriCorps involves 25,000 people in impact-driven service learning.  In exchange for service, members receive a living allowance and an educational award that can be used to help pay off student loans or to finance college, graduate school or vocational training. Beyond these benefits, members learn new skills, take on new responsibilities and know the satisfaction of building a community.

Four sites are planned in Mineral County for  2008, and many volunteers and mentors are needed.  Mentors work with a small group of children to make reading meaningful in their lives by creating an enriching environment.  Community coordinators connect parents and community members to the site. 

Volunteers read with children, help with family style meals, and help with writing and art activities.

To learn more about Energy Express visit the website at www.energyexpress.wvu.edu or by telephone at 304-293-3855.

For other AmeriCorps and national service opportunities visit www.americorps.org . 

Energy Express is under the leadership of the WVU Extension Service 4-H Youth Development Program, and is funded in part by grants from the West Virginia Department of Education and the Arts and the West Virginia Commission for National and Community Service.  The Commission encourages West Virginians of all ages to be involved in service to their community.

In Mineral County, Energy Express is sponsored by the Mineral County Energy Express Collaborative including: Eastern WV Community Action, Mineral County Schools, WVU Extension Service, Burlington Family Service, Foster Grandparents, Mineral County Library and parent and community volunteers.