My name is Ellie Litzinger. I graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Environmental Science and a minor in Sustainability during May 2020, in the beginnings of the COVID-19 pandemic. I was blessed enough to serve a three-month term in the Conservation Corps of Minnesota and Iowa during the summer of 2020, fighting invasive plant species while fearing being infected with Covid. The following years from September 2021 through August 2023, I was chosen to serve in Minnesota GreenCorps. Among various activities, I managed a local foods collaborative program, was a co-supervisor of a local farmer’s market, tracked food waste for a food waste to animals program, educated various peoples of all walks of life oh how a equitable food system and food waste reduction benefits us all. 

Without Americorps, I never would have gotten my foot into the door in the environmental sector, nor would have received my current job. Now, because of reckless and unnecessary spending cuts, Americorps funding is gone and the futures of Americorps programs that have helps so many people are in peril. No rain gardens will be built or invasive species will be defeated in the areas of our country that need it the most. No post-storm assistance will be available after a hurricane, a tornado, or a flood. Our food shelves will not get to try new processes that will feed the community and reduce food waste. And those who are looking for a $7500 education award to pay their student loans or fund further education will not receive that money.

This petition is a DEMAND to restore funding to Americorps programs so we can continue benefiting from the amazing contributions Americorps has made in the past and so our present and future Americorps members will continue the programs that make our country better.