Maryland Launches Expanded Service Corps Program with Focus on Community Needs and Skill Development

According to a press release from the Office of Governor Wes Moore, the state has officially launched the third cohort of its Maryland Corps and Service Year Option program, with nearly 600 individuals participating. This expansion, marked on the 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance at the University of Maryland, College Park, involves these members serving with over 200 partner organizations, including non-profits, businesses, and more than 20 government agencies. This initiative aims to provide meaningful service opportunities for young Marylanders while equipping them with professional skills and addressing critical community issues.

The Maryland Corps and Service Year Option program has seen significant growth, with over 3,500 applications received for the current class, the highest number since its inception in 2023. The program’s alumni now number over 700. This year’s cohort is notably diverse, reflecting the demographics of Maryland, with over half identifying as people of color and members representing all 24 of the state’s jurisdictions. A substantial majority, more than 85%, are 24 years old or younger, and over 70% entered the program without a college degree, highlighting the program’s role in providing pathways for career development and civic engagement.

This year’s iteration of the program introduces two new service tracks designed to address specific societal needs. The Benefits Navigator Corps will focus on connecting residents in communities with high child poverty rates to essential programs such as SNAP and Medicaid, as well as assisting with tax filings. This initiative seeks to simplify access to vital resources for families, promoting stability and opportunity. The IT Accessibility Corps will train members to assist state agencies in meeting federal accessibility standards for digital services, focusing on areas like document remediation and website testing. This track aims to improve the accessibility of state services, particularly for individuals with disabilities, and cultivate a skilled workforce in digital accessibility.

Additionally, the program continues its partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Trust, supporting nearly 100 members in environmental stewardship projects. These members will contribute to efforts aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing community resilience, and advancing environmental justice, while simultaneously preparing for careers in Maryland’s growing green economy. Upon completing their service year, participants will receive a $6,000 completion award. Previous participants have gained valuable experience, completing tens of thousands of hours in technical instruction and demonstrating proficiency in numerous certified competencies, contributing to the state’s workforce development and community strengthening efforts.

To commemorate the 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance, Governor Moore and First Lady Dawn Moore participated in a service project alongside the new cohort, assembling welcome bags for service members stationed at Fort Meade and laundry packets for veterans at The Baltimore Station, an organization that provides transitional housing and workforce development for veterans. The University of Maryland, College Park, as the host institution, emphasized its commitment to investing in people and communities through such collaborative initiatives.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Office of Governor Wes Moore

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