America250 and nonprofit partners mobilize nationwide for National Volunteer Month. Coast-to-Coast service initiatives highlight growing momentum behind America Gives ahead of nation's 250th Anniversary. WASHINGTON, D.C. - April 2, 2026 - America250, the national, nonpartisan organization charged by Congress to lead celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, today announced a nationwide activation of its nonprofit partners in recognition of National Volunteer Month this April. Through a wide range of service initiatives, partners are mobilizing volunteers, strengthening communities, and accelerating momentum toward America250's goal of making 2026 the largest year of service in American history. "National Volunteer Month is a powerful reminder that service is one of the most enduring ways Americans connect with one another and give back to their communities," said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. "Our nonprofit partners are leading the way this April, creating opportunities for millions of Americans to take part in meaningful service as we approach our nation's 250th anniversary." Building on the success of America Gives, which has already inspired millions of volunteer hours nationwide, National Volunteer Month represents a key milestone in scaling participation and deepening community impact across the country. Throughout April, America250 partners are hosting events, launching campaigns, and expanding volunteer opportunities designed to engage Americans of all backgrounds. Nonprofit partners activating nationwide. America250's growing network of nonprofit partners is playing a central role in bringing National Volunteer Month to life. From community revitalization projects to food security initiatives and youth engagement programs, these organizations are driving impact at the local and national levels. Below are a few of the America250 nonprofit partners leading National Volunteer Month efforts: * 9/11 Day is mobilizing the largest single day of service in U.S. history for the 25th anniversary in 2026. Grant applications are now open across multiple categories to support service activities nationwide, with toolkits and other engagement resources launching in May for organizations and individuals interested in taking part. * Thousands of American Legion Family members are engaging in community service projects as part of its USA 250 Challenge, an initiative to commit to 250 acts of fitness, wellness and/or service before July 4. * The Arbor Day Foundation is planting 1 million trees in front yards, backyards, and neighborhood parks in its American cities this spring alongside its supporters, planting partners and local volunteers. * Rooted in the belief that no one should go hungry, chapters of The Arc are bridging the gap to food insecurity by partnering with local food organizations to deliver food and nutrition to those in their communities who need it the most. * Blue Star Families is launching a comprehensive volunteer program with a dynamic platform designed to connect passionate individuals with meaningful, mission-driven opportunities to serve military and veteran communities across the nation. This centralized hub makes it easier than ever for volunteers to turn intention into sustained, tangible impact. * Boys & Girls Clubs of America, in partnership with leading corporations, will advance a national volunteer strategy that mobilizes service in support of youth nationwide, strengthening communities and expanding opportunities for meaningful engagement. * There are nearly 1,800 severely injured post 9/11 Veterans waiting for adapted housing that meets their needs. Homes For Its Troops is committed to providing mortgage-free, specially adapted custom homes to these brave service members who answered its nation's call. This April and beyond, they invite Americans to volunteer at their build events and honor its nation's 250th birthday by serving those who have sacrificed so much. * Honor Flight Network is dedicated to honoring America's Veterans for all of their sacrifices and service by providing them an Honor Flight to Washington, DC to visit their memorials free of charge as a small token of appreciation. With 135 Hubs located across the country, there are more than 300 Honor Flight trips planned for 2026. * This April, Humane World for Animals celebrates its dedicated volunteers, who help the organization tackle the root causes of animal cruelty and suffering to create a better world for all animals worldwide. * Idealist is supporting 53 community meet-ups taking place on Idealist Day 4/4 to encourage local communities to gather, volunteer with local organizations, and organize positive community actions. * Through America Gives, the Junior League is activating its 125-year legacy across nearly 300 communities with 100,000 members - bringing local action, national scale and research on women's mental load and well-being to this moment. * In April, JustServe will champion Global Youth Service Day and America250 by connecting more youth to meaningful service, with an aim to inspire 250,000 new JustServe volunteers to serve in 2,500 communities and recognize outstanding volunteers across America. * Keep America Beautiful is teaming up with Good Neighbor Day America for a #Kindness250 Challenge. Participation is simple: pick up 25 pieces of litter in your neighborhood, share a photo of your impact on social media, and tag @keepamericabeautiful and @goodneighboramerica. * WishMakers Wanted is Make-A-Wish's rallying cry to meet an urgent need - mobilizing anyone who takes action for wish kids, because more than 50 WishMakers are essential to make each wish possible. * The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is bringing Environmental Education Week (April 20-24) to life with free activities that get educators, families, and kids outside, exploring nature, and learning how to care for it. * Beginning in April, Its Community Salutes, USA, will host ceremonies in over 60 cities recognizing thousands of high school seniors from the Class of 2026 enlisting in military service. * Points of Light will launch a National Volunteer Strategy to mark the 250th anniversary of its nation and advance its goal of doubling volunteering in the U.S. by 2035. * In celebration of National Rebuilding Month, Rebuilding Together is uniting volunteers and partners to revitalize communities and provide essential home modifications for veterans, older adults, and families in need. * SciStarter is working toward a shared goal of 2.50 Million Acts of Science, marking America's 250th Birthday through collective discovery, service, and impact. * This April, Scouts across the nation will unite in the Scouting for Clean Waterways project, honoring America's 250th Birthday with a month of service dedicated to protecting and preserving its nation's treasured waterways. This effort is part of many Scouting America activations throughout the year that will help them deliver 8 Million hours of service in support of America Gives. * Taproot Foundation is hosting its first-ever volunteer networking event on Tuesday, April 21, creating a space for volunteers who have similar skills to learn from and support each other as they engage in pro bono service for their communities. * The Trust for the National Mall and the National Park Service have launched the National Mall MALLSTAR Volunteer program providing special training and recognition and inspiring volunteers to complete 250 hours of service welcoming visitors on America's Front Yard during America's 250th year. * This April, Tunnel to Towers is preparing to host a barbecue-style celebration in honor of the nation's 250th Anniversary, where an estimated 1,000 sailors will gather at Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island on July 7th, 2026, for an afternoon of local entertainment, a 9/11 Never Forget mobile exhibit, and Navy vessels docked along the Staten Island waterfront. * Wound Warrior Project(R) employees nationwide will join the initiative and volunteer on May 21 with warriors and supporters at service projects throughout their local communities. Americans can join the National Volunteer Month charge by logging their service hours at America250.org/America-Gives. Participants can also discover local opportunities, share stories and photos, and encourage others to get involved in this historic moment of service. About America250. America250's mission is to celebrate and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, marking America's Semiquincentennial. America250 Foundation, Inc. aim to inspire its fellow Americans to reflect on its past, strengthen its love of country, and renew its commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite America250 Foundation, Inc. as a nation. America250 will foster shared experiences that spark imagination, showcase the rich tapestry of its American stories, inspire service in its communities, honor the enduring strength, and celebrate the resilience of the United States of America.

Nation's Finest selected as Blue Star Families Outpost in Nevada's Second Congressional District. Reno, NV - February 19, 2026 - Nation's Finest is proud to announce its selection as an official Blue Star Families Outpost, expanding community-based support and connection opportunities for military members, Veterans, and their families across Nevada's Second Congressional District. As a Blue Star Families Outpost, Nation's Finest will partner with Blue Star Families to strengthen local military communities through welcoming events, family-focused programming, and opportunities that foster meaningful connection and belonging throughout Northern Nevada. In addition, this summer, in partnership with Blue Star Families and the Nevada Department of Veterans Services, Nation's Finest will launch a newly retrofitted mobile services unit to expand its reach across remote and rural parts of Nevada where many Veterans live but have limited access to support. The mobile unit will bring case management, housing assistance, mental health referrals, benefits navigation, and other critical services directly to Veterans and their families where they are. "If nearly 30 years on active duty and multiple combat deployments taught me anything, it's that family carries you through," said Chris Flaherty, Chief Executive Officer of Nation's Finest. "That truth continues long after your time in uniform. It is an honor for me personally, and for Nation's Finest as an organization, to partner with Blue Star Families in enduring service to the military and Veteran families of Northern Nevada. Together, we can now carry them through." Nation's Finest has served Veterans and their families for more than five decades and maintains a strong, on-the-ground presence in some of Nevada's most rural and underserved communities. Through this partnership, Nation's Finest will help extend the reach of Blue Star Families' programs and resources while amplifying the voices and experiences of local military families. About Nation's Finest: Nation's Finest is a nonprofit organization with more than 50 years of history standing alongside Veterans and their families, giving them the support and respect they need to live their best lives. Its work spans 30 locations across California, Arizona, and Nevada, with a strong presence in rural and underserved communities where care is limited and challenges are often overlooked. Through a reaffirming approach to housing, health, and employment, Nation's Finest supports the whole Veteran and the journey to get where they want to be. By mckinzie burrows | February 19, 2026 | comments off on Nation's Finest selected as Blue Star Families Outpost in Nevada's Second Congressional District.

Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation awards grant to Blue Star Families. Nourishing our Neighbors grant increases access to nutritious food; provides nutritional education. FORT BRAGG - Blue Star Families has received $1,800 from the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation to help nourish neighbors experiencing hunger. The Nourishing our Neighbors grant supports community feeding partners by helping neighbors increase their access to nutritious food and providing nutrition education to eliminate health risks for those experiencing food insecurity. "We are deeply grateful to the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation for investing in the well-being of our military families. This grant strengthens our Nourish the Service initiative and ensures families connected to Fort Bragg have greater access to healthy food and nutrition education - both critical to building stronger, more resilient communities," said Tate Johnson, executive director of Blue Star Families for the Greater Fayetteville Region Chapter. The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation is committed to supporting families facing food insecurity across its 10-state footprint. Established in 2001, the Foundation provides financial support for programs and organizations dedicated to feeding local neighbors in the communities it serves. Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded nearly $25 million in grant funding to help nourish communities with fresh food.