The Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation stands as a key player in building stronger communities across the state. Created to boost service and volunteer work, this department helps people of all ages make a real difference. Young adults fresh out of high school find paths to jobs and skills. Older folks switch careers or give back in new ways. In this guide, you will learn about its roots, main programs, and how you can get involved. Whether you seek hands-on work or want to host service members, the department offers tools to help.
Background of the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation
Governor Wes Moore set up the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation in 2023 through the SERVE Act. This law aimed to make service a big part of life in Maryland. The department focuses on new ways to serve, like the Service Year Option and Maryland Corps. It also grows older programs such as AmeriCorps.
The idea started with a goal to tackle big issues. Think climate change, education gaps, and health needs. By linking people to service roles, the department builds skills and meets community demands. It works under the state’s government in Annapolis. Leaders like Secretary Jonathan M. Dorsey guide the team. They push for volunteer days, including ones for Martin Luther King Jr. and September 11.
This setup came at a time when Maryland needed more hands-on help. Stats show volunteer rates in the U.S. hover around 25%, but Maryland aims higher. The department partners with groups to expand reach. For example, it ties into the Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism. This office has run for years, handling grants and events.
One big win early on was launching pilot programs. These drew in hundreds of participants. Now, the department runs with a budget over $40 million for 2026. It has about 22 staff spots. This funding supports training, pay, and awards for those who serve.
Key Programs Offered by the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation
The Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation runs programs that fit different people. Here, we break them down.
Service Year Option: A Path for Young Adults
This program targets recent high school grads or those with a GED. Ages run from 18 to 21. Participants work full-time for nine months or more. They earn at least $15 per hour. At the end, they get a $6,000 completion award.
Bold steps to join:
- Check if you qualify: Be a Maryland resident, 18-21, with a diploma or GED.
- Pick a focus: Areas include climate prep, tutoring kids, or health care.
- Apply online through the department’s site.
Service spots vary. Some help with green projects, like planting trees. Others tutor in schools. Mentors guide you along the way. You also get pro development sessions each week. These cover job skills, like resume writing or teamwork.
One example: A young person in Baltimore joined to tutor math. They built confidence and earned college credits. This ties into bigger goals, like cutting child poverty in tough areas.
Maryland Corps: Open Doors for All Adults
Unlike the youth focus, Maryland Corps welcomes anyone 18 and up. No high school diploma needed. This makes it great for career changers or community lovers.
Participants serve full-time too. Pay starts at $15 an hour, with the same $6,000 award at finish. Wrap-around help includes health care, child care, and money tips.
Key benefits in list form:
- Build skills in fields like IT, public safety, or conservation.
- Get mentorship from pros.
- Access apprenticeships that lead to jobs.
Host sites range from small nonprofits to big agencies. For instance, some work on historic trades, fixing old buildings. Others handle public health tasks, like vaccine outreach.
The program launched its third group in 2025. Over 100 members served in places with high needs. This shows growth and impact.
AmeriCorps Expansion and Other Initiatives
The department boosts AmeriCorps in Maryland. This national program places volunteers in key spots. Maryland adds state twists, like climate corps roles.
Days of Service stand out. On MLK Day, thousands volunteer. Same for September 11. These events build community ties.
Another highlight: Partnerships for scholarships. Washington College gives $33,000 a year to up to 10 members. That’s $1.32 million total. This helps turn service into education wins.
How to Get Involved with the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation
Getting started is simple. The Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation makes it easy.
For individuals:
- Visit the official site for details.
- Choose a program: Service Year for youth or Corps for adults.
- Fill out the Maryland Corps application or Service Year application.
- Submit docs like ID and residency proof.
Apps open yearly. For 2026, check deadlines soon. If you need the Maryland department of Service and Civic innovation login, it’s for current members to track progress.
For organizations as host sites:
- Nominate spots for service members.
- Provide mentors and work tasks.
- Contribute funds if you’re a large group.
A lunch and learn event in Talbot County showed how. Hosts learned about benefits, like free labor for key projects.
Quotes from leaders help. Governor Moore said, “Young people should have the option to perform important service today and build a foundation for our shared future.” This reassures that service leads to real growth.
Benefits and Achievements of Service Programs
Joining brings big perks. First, you earn while serving. The living wage helps cover costs. The award can pay for school or training.
Skills gained matter too. Many learn leadership and problem-solving. This boosts resumes. Some tie into business paths. For example, service in outreach might spark interest in marketing. Learn more about what marketing is and how it helps a business here.
Achievements shine bright. The first cohort graduated in 2024 with Governor Moore present. Members helped in ENOUGH communities, fighting child poverty.
Stats back it up. Over 200 members served in 2025. They logged thousands of hours in education and health. Partnerships grew, like with colleges for scholarships.
The department leads nationally. It’s the first of its kind, per Governor Moore. This innovation draws attention and funding.
The service also builds networks. Alumni get help for five years post-program. This includes job leads and more training.
For career changers, it’s a reset. Mid-career pros find purpose. One story: A former teacher switched to conservation, gaining new certs.
Tying to business, some use skills for startups. If you dream big, check how to build a startup with no money here.
Challenges and Tips for Success
No program is perfect. Some face time demands or relocation. But support helps.
Tips for thriving:
- Set goals early: Know what skills you want.
- Use mentors: Ask questions often.
- Track progress: Log hours and learnings.
The department offers coaching. A new role, Service Success Coach, helps members stay on track.
FAQs About the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation
What is the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation?
It’s a state agency that promotes service programs like Maryland Corps and Service Year Option.
How do I find Maryland department of service and civic innovation jobs?
Check the state job site or the department’s page for openings.
Is there a Maryland department of service and civic innovation phone number?
Yes, call (410) 697-9492 for info.
What about the office of service and civic engagement?
It’s part of the department, handling volunteer grants.
Can I access the maryland corps service year option login?
Yes, if you’re enrolled, use the provided portal.
Conclusion: Join the Movement with the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation
The Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation transforms lives through service. From youth building foundations to adults finding new paths, programs like Service Year Option and Maryland Corps deliver skills, pay, and impact. With achievements like scholarships and community aid, it leads the way. Ready to serve? What service area excites you most—climate, education, or health?
References
- Official Website: For full program details and applications, visit the Maryland Department of Service and Civic Innovation. This site helps young adults and recent graduates explore service paths.
- Facebook Page: Stay updated on events and stories via Maryland Serves. Ideal for adult volunteers seeking community insights.
- Maryland Manual: Learn about structure and leadership at the Maryland State Archives. Useful for all audiences understanding government roles.
