April 25, 2024 (PEORIA, IL) - The public is invited to attend the graduation ceremony for PeoriaCorps' ninth graduating cohort on Friday, May 3, from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. at 813 SW Washington Street. At-large Peoria Council Member, Dr. Bernice Gordan-Young, PhD, LCPC, will be the guest speaker. The graduation will highlight the accomplishments of the AmeriCorps National Volunteer program and celebrate the successful completion of PeoriaCorps' 9^th cohort, including members, Bradley Miller, Jessica Smith, Ashlin Thomas, and Dontay Watson.

Launched in October 2017, PeoriaCorps provides career exploration for unemployed workers 18 years and older while providing opportunities to also engage in community service. Through hands-on training, Corps members gain skills in environmental beautification, environmental stewardship, and green landscaping solutions. Members also receive classroom training in soft skills, vital to the career-building process. For the past six months, they have worked on green infrastructure projects that include harvesting and maintaining native plants, removing debris and cleaning, weeding, and utilizing green infrastructure practices around the city of Peoria. Corps members also explored career options, and have earned CPR, OSHA 10, and HAZWOPER 24 certifications for General Industry.

PeoriaCorps enrolled its 10^th cohort in early March, with a volunteer service completion date of August 31st. The 11^th cohort will begin in early September 2024, and recruitment for those members is ongoing.

Individuals interested in earning an education award, receiving a living allowance with bonus stipends, and enhancing their skills while supporting the reduction of pollution to our city's waterways should complete the job application on the PeoriaCorps webpage.

Any questions may be directed to Yelene Modley, Program Director at (309) 494-8843.