America250 Launches 'America Gives' Initiative to Ignite Record-Breaking Year of Service in 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. – America250, the official nonpartisan organization tasked by Congress with commemorating the nation's 250th anniversary, officially launched its 'America Gives' initiative on January 1, 2026. This nationwide program is designed to promote volunteerism and establish 2026 as the largest year of service in U.S. history, coinciding with the country's Semiquincentennial.

A Vision for Renewed Community Engagement

The 'America Gives' initiative stems from research conducted by America250, which indicated a strong desire among Americans to rekindle a culture of community service as part of the 250th anniversary celebrations. The program is also inspired by America250's National Co-Chairs, former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush, reflecting their shared commitment to unity and service.

Rosie Rios, Chair of America250, emphasized the initiative's core message, stating, 'America Gives embodies what our Semiquincentennial is all about — celebrating not only our nation's past, but also its people and potential. Through service, we strengthen the bonds that unite us and remind ourselves that the American spirit of generosity and community endures. Together, we can make 2026 a year defined by purpose and action.'

Participation and Incentives for Service

America Gives challenges a broad spectrum of entities, including businesses, nonprofits, schools, youth groups, and faith-based networks, to commit to increasing their volunteer efforts and measurable impact. Individuals and organizations can participate by taking the 'Year of Service' pledge and logging their volunteer hours at America250.org/America-Gives.

To further encourage participation, America250 has introduced the National America Gives Sweepstakes. Throughout the year, 250 randomly selected volunteers who log their hours will have the opportunity to direct a $4,000 donation to an approved 501(c)(3) Founding Partner charity. In total, America250 plans to facilitate $1 million in donations through this program.

Extensive Partnerships and Impactful Initiatives

The initiative has garnered significant support from a wide array of partners. Points of Light, recognized as the world's largest organization dedicated to volunteer service, will serve as the National Resource Partner, connecting volunteers with local opportunities. Major corporate and non-profit partners, including Walmart, Coca-Cola, the American Red Cross, United Way Worldwide, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, and Citi, have pledged to activate their networks to support the effort.

Several partners have launched specific initiatives:

• The Girl Scouts of the USA will offer a volunteering badge to its approximately 1 million youth members who complete a service project.
• Keep America Beautiful is leading efforts to clean up 250 million pieces of trash by the Fourth of July.
• JustServe is coordinating the delivery of food donations via 250 semitrucks to 250 food banks across all 50 states.

Jennifer Sirangelo, CEO of Points of Light, remarked, 'America Gives reflects the very best of who we are as a nation: people who show up, take action, and create meaningful change together.' The initiative aims to build a movement of sustained impact, helping nonprofits expand their volunteer bases and inspiring individuals to continue giving back long after the Semiquincentennial year concludes.