A new group of volunteers is ready to give back to the community. Mayor Byron Brown swore in the 2013 class of Buffalo AmeriCorps members Thursday morning at the Belle Center on the city's lower west side.AmeriCorps Director Pamela James says since 2007, members have eradicated more than 26 miles of graffiti, shoveled snow for 800 senior citizens, and delivered tons of food for the needy. Several other sites will also get a helping hand from the 46 new AmeriCorps members during their year of service.
"Right now, as it stands, for the sixth year, we have mentored and tutored and provided food for over 20,000 families," said James.
Volunteer Melanie Reimondo says she is looking forward to helping to impact the community.
"I feel like everyone really should get involved. We're a community, we're not just one person," Reimondo said.
The program is funded by a $400,000 state Commission on National and Community Service grant.