The Shadow
WASHINGTON, D.C. — January 1, 2026 — America250, the official nonpartisan organization established by Congress to lead the nation’s 250th anniversary commemoration, today launched its latest tentpole program, America Gives, a nationwide initiative designed to make 2026 the largest year of volunteerism in U.S. history.
America Gives challenges businesses, nonprofits, schools, youth groups, faith-based networks, and organizations of all kinds to commit to increasing their volunteer efforts and measurable impact starting today.
“America Gives embodies what our Semiquincentennial is all about — celebrating not only our nation’s past, but also its people and potential,” said Rosie Rios, Chair of America250. “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.”
America Gives was developed in response to research America250 conducted showing that most Americans believe rekindling a culture of community service should be part of the nation’s 250th anniversary. 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 fireworks fade.
America250’s National Co-Chairs, former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush, whose shared commitment to unity and service reflects the Semiquincentennial’s spirit, have also inspired this program.
How to Get Involved
Beginning today, Americans can take the Year of Service pledge and log their volunteer hours at America250.org/America-Gives. A live national counter on the site will track participation in real time, showcasing the collective hours of service across all 50 states, 5 territories, and Washington, D.C.
Participants can easily record their hours by entering their volunteer activity details directly into the America Gives portal. They can also upload stories and photos to inspire others and explore opportunities to get involved.
Americans can also visit the America250 website at America250.org/America-Gives to find service opportunities near them and based on their interests. America250’s National Resource Partner, Points of Light, will help join interested volunteers with the right organization. Points of Light is the world’s largest organization dedicated to volunteer service and connects individuals, business and nonprofit volunteer organizations to create change in the world.
“Since our founding, Points of Light has been dedicated to building a culture of volunteering that strengthens communities and reflects our nation’s highest ideals. America Gives reflects the very best of who we are as a nation: people who show up, take action, and create meaningful change together,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, CEO of Points of Light. “As a National Resource Partner for America250, Points of Light is proud to support America Gives and help mobilize millions of volunteers so that every individual and community can benefit from the positive effects of volunteering.”
National America Gives Sweepstakes
To further encourage participation, America250 is launching the America Gives National Sweepstakes, where 250 randomly selected winners will each have the opportunity to direct a $4,000 donation to one of America250’s approved 501(c)(3) Founding Partner charities. In total, $1 million will be donated by America250 through this program as participants log their service hours throughout the year.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Ends 11:59pm ET on 12/1/26. Open to U.S. only, 13+. See Official Rules for full details including how to enter, eligibility requirements, and prize description/restrictions. Void where prohibited.
Non-Profit, Government and Corporate Partner Commitments
Major corporate and non-profit partners have pledged to activate their networks to help make 2026 the largest coordinated volunteer effort in U.S. history. These commitments represent millions of potential volunteers coming together under the America Gives banner to serve.
Partners as of the program launch time include: Walmart, Coca-Cola, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, Citi and nearly 50 national organizations — including 9/11 Day, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, American Corporate Partners, American Red Cross, AmeriCorps, Arbor Day Foundation, Association of Junior Leagues International, Blue Star Families, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Business Roundtable, Canine Companions, CityServe, Combined Federal Campaign, Conservation Legacy, Daughters of the American Revolution, Girl Scouts of the USA, Humane World for Animals, JustServe, Kampgrounds of America, Keep America Beautiful, Love Has No Limits, Make-A-Wish, National Park Service, The National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF), Peace Corps, PGA Hope, Points of Light, The Salvation Army, SciStarter, Scouting America, The Smithsonian Institution, Taproot Foundation, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, United Service Organizations (USO), United Way Worldwide, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Volunteer.gov, The Washington Tattoo, We the Veterans & Military Families, Wounded Warrior Project, and Youth Service America.
To take the Year of Service pledge, log your volunteer hours, or find service opportunities near you, visit America250.org/America-Gives.
About America250
America250 is the official nonpartisan initiative established by Congress to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. Through programs, partnerships, and nationwide engagement, America250 aims to inspire participation from every American to honor the nation’s past, celebrate its present, and build a more perfect future together. Learn more at www.America250.org.
