About Us

The Governor’s Office on Service and Volunteerism (GOSV) is a unit of the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives. Through the use of federal dollars, the GOSV funded 13 AmeriCorps State programs during the 2012-2013 program year to support disaster services, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and veterans and military families in Maryland.

The GOSV was founded in 1993; and the office supports 600 AmeriCorps members each year through its grant-making program. In addition, the GOSV advocates for effective volunteer program management and recognizes volunteer service across the state on behalf of the Governor of Maryland.  Each year, over 10,000 Maryland volunteers are recognized by the Governor’s Office through activities and services provided by the GOSV. 

Services

Volunteer Recognition for Maryland Citizens

The Governor’s Office has a long tradition of investing in and celebrating the myriad of community services provided by all citizens. The GOSV provides a variety of opportunities for nonprofits, businesses, schools, and more to honor the contributions of local volunteers. From state-wide events, like the Governor’s Volunteer Award Ceremony during National Volunteer Week, to individual service certificates awarded to citizens, there are many ways to honor the dedication of volunteers across Maryland.

Funding for National Service

The GOSV is the State Service Commission for the National Service AmeriCorps program. The office works with the bi-partisan Maryland Governor's Commission on Service and Volunteerism to review grant applications, complete grant selection, and administer all awards for AmeriCorps State Competitive and Formula funding each year.