June 02, 2023

Castro and Casar Get $2.8 Million in AmeriCorps Funding for Education and Small Business Development Programs in San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO – Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) and Congressman Greg Casar (TX-35) announced their offices have secured more than $2.8 million in AmeriCorps funding for education and small business development programs run by City Year San Antonio and LiftFund Inc. The funding comes in addition to more than $13 million in new state formula funding announced by AmeriCorps last month for programs throughout Texas.

“Since I came to Congress, I’ve focused on building out what I call the Infrastructure of Opportunity – the great public schools, sound health care system, and good jobs that help Americans pursue their dreams,” said Congressman Joaquin Castro. “AmeriCorps programs are at the heart of San Antonio’s Infrastructure of Opportunity, and I’m excited about the possibilities this funding will unlock for our students and small businesses.”

“By supporting our San Antonio schools, growing small businesses, and developing civic leaders, we’re investing in the future,” said Congressman Greg Casar. “Regardless of ZIP code, every student and every entrepreneur should get a chance to succeed. I’m looking forward to seeing how our students and business leaders take San Antonio into the future.” 

“City Year San Antonio would like to thank Representative Castro, Representative Casar, and the members of the Texas congressional district for supporting AmeriCorps,” said Derrick Fulton, Market President, City Year. “This federal grant will support 58 City Year AmeriCorps members who will serve full time in up to 8 of San Antonio schools, reaching nearly 6,500 students through whole school and targeted support. City Year AmeriCorps members serve as student success coaches—tutors, mentors and role models—preparing students with the skills, relationships and learning environments they need to succeed in school and in life.”

“These AmeriCorps grants—and our State and National program—prioritize how important it is to give local organizations the tools to solve local challenges,” said AmeriCorps CEO Michael D. Smith. “This investment further strengthens partnerships with a thriving network of local, state and national organizations. These evidence-backed programs are creating lasting change in underserved communities while giving more Americans an opportunity to serve." 

City Year San Antonio will receive $2,065,575 in grant funding and $641,235 in education award funding to support 58 AmeriCorps members who will provide education services to students in eight San Antonio public schools. As Student Success Coaches, the AmeriCorps members will provide academic and youth development mentoring to improve literacy, math, and socio-emotional skills. Members also provide extended day and school climate activities. 

LiftFund Inc. will receive $119,125 in grant funding and $48,265 in education award funding to support seven AmeriCorps members who will help LiftFund's Business Support team conduct one-on-one consultation sessions to support low-income and minority small business owners impacted by COVID-19. AmeriCorps members will be responsible for assisting LiftFund's Business Support team with helping 100 low-income and/or minority small business owners improve their financial knowledge in how to access and qualify for affordable capital (i.e., low-interest loans/financing). 

To view the full AmeriCorps funding announcement, click here.