Thank you for publishing Adrian Uzunians informative article about the AmeriCorps VISTAs serving with the Western Hardrock Watershed Team (Herald, May 15). Uzunian highlighted the important work of four VISTAs, and I would like to recognize the important work of several other dedicated AmeriCorps members who are serving in Southwest Colorado.
Regional Substance Abuse Prevention Partners, or RSAPP, is an AmeriCorps state program hosting 10 AmeriCorps members who work with youths across the five-county region. RSAPP AmeriCorps members are currently serving with the Lasso Tobacco Coalition in Durango, Fort Lewis Colleges Student Wellness Initiatives, the Silverton Youth Center, the Pagosa Springs Youth Center, the School Community Youth Coalition and three school districts in Montezuma County, and Students Taking Action Against Underage Drinking in Dove Creek. For more information, email cathy@rsapp.org or visit www.rsapp.org.
The Southern Ute Community Action Programs, or SUCAP, also have an AmeriCorps state program that places 13 AmeriCorps members in La Plata County at the following organizations and agencies: town of Ignacio, city of Durango, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Colorado, SUCAP, Regional Housing Alliance, Boys & Girls Club of La Plata County, Southern Ute Boys & Girls Club, Southern Ute Cultural Center & Museum, Ignacio Teen Center, Del Alma, and Southern Ute Head Start. For more information, email lschaefer@sucap.org.
May 14-22 is National AmeriCorps Week a time to reflect on the amazing impact these and many other AmeriCorps members have on our community and our country. Please take some time to learn about the AmeriCorps programs in your community and be sure to thank AmeriCorps members and alumni for their dedication and service.
Cathy Cowles, RSAPP program coordinator, and Lynne Schaefer, SUCAP AmeriCorps program coordinator, Durango
