From Environmental Stewardship to Uncertain Futures: The Journey of an AmeriCorps Member
Callie Grones’ time with AmeriCorps at the Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve has been a period of significant personal and professional growth. As a community outreach coordinator, Grones has dedicated herself to the Reserve and the Friends of the Lake Superior Reserve, a nonprofit group, since 2024.
The 23-year-old native of Kimberly, Wisconsin, found a profound connection with the land and its people shortly after graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. “I’ve gotten twice as much out of it from my own personal growth, not only as a professional, but as someone who really cares about the environment,” Grones expressed.
The impact of her work is evident. Grones has overseen over 100 volunteers in efforts to remove invasive species and clean up beaches, amassing nearly 600 pounds of trash. Additionally, she organized meetings to reintroduce the Indigenous practice of prescribed burns, or “ishkode” in Ojibwe, at Wisconsin Point, a practice not regularly conducted since the 1854 Treaty.
However, Grones’ efforts faced an unexpected setback when the Trump administration dismantled AmeriCorps in April last year, terminating her position as part of cost-cutting measures under the Department of Government Efficiency initiative. Wisconsin, along with other states, sued the administration over the cessation of $400 million in grant funding.
“I had developed this connection with this place. The idea of not being able to come back to my work and these people, I felt nervous and sad if that was going to be the case,” Grones recalled.
Despite the challenges, Grones is being honored as one of three AmeriCorps Members of the Year at the Governor’s Service Awards in Madison. Kyle Clower, executive director of Serve Wisconsin, emphasized her significant community impact and resilience, stating, “Callie’s service was just outstanding for the large impact that she’s had in numerous ways through her work … and then her resiliency when the grant terminations happened, continuing to serve and make a difference.”
Will Mowchan, a board member with the Friends group, recalls Grones’ determined response to the termination notice. “It stunned her, of course,” Mowchan said. “Then she had this powerful reaction from deep inside. She just said, ‘I am home. I’m not going anywhere.’” Grones continued her work thanks to funds raised by board members and Reserve staff until a federal judge reversed the dismantling of AmeriCorps.
The disruption in AmeriCorps programs has had lasting effects in Wisconsin. Serve Wisconsin, which managed around $14 million in federal funding for 868 positions last year, now supports 20 programs with 697 positions, as explained by Clower. Programs like College Possible Wisconsin and the Farm to School program did not resume, partly due to funding uncertainties.
Despite the challenges, Grones remains committed to her mission. “I feel like I’m making a difference every day,” she said. Deanna Erickson, director of the Lake Superior Reserve, recognizes the value AmeriCorps members bring to the community, emphasizing the collective appreciation in Wisconsin for their contributions.
As discussions continue over the future of AmeriCorps’ funding, with President Trump proposing drastic cuts, Grones is set to complete her service by August’s end. Her journey reflects both the impact and the challenges faced by service members dedicated to environmental stewardship and community service.
