Local briefs May 11, 2010

Learn more about AmeriCorps

AmeriCorps Week is May 8-15.

The program is a 10-month, volunteer commitment with stipend.

"We recruit, train, and supervise community volunteers, tutor and mentor youth," wrote Betty Bray-Baker, VISTA volunteer and mentor at Sorensen Elementary.

Bray-Baker finds seniors 55 and older to go to the elementary schools and high schools and help students.

Other members build affordable housing, teach computer skills, clean parks and streams and run afterschool programs.

The National Civilian Community Corps is a 10 month, full time, team-based residential program for men and women ages 18 to 24 who want to get ahead and leave their mark on society, she said.

"Spreading the word about AmeriCorps is especially important now, as the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act has put AmeriCorps on a path to grow to 250,000 annual members by 2017," Bray-Baker wrote.

She hopes more Americans join AmeriCorps or volunteer in their communities.

Information: 667-3179, ext. 241

Flag retirement in Post Falls tonight

POST FALLS - There will be a flag retirement ceremony at the Post Falls American Legion, 1138 E. Poleline Ave., tonight at 7.

The event is free and the public is invited.

Information: 773-9054