The recent suspension of applications for certifying organizations under the President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) has left many Korean American students and parents in a difficult situation.
On May 27, AmeriCorps, a federal agency overseeing national volunteer programs, temporarily stopped accepting new applications for PVSA certifying organizations. PVSA has long been used by students as an important credential for college admissions.
Yoonsook Park, President of Hwarang Youth Foundation, said, “We were able to award PVSA to all students who completed volunteer hours before the suspension, so the impact on us is minimal. But some small organizations handed out PVSA too freely, which may leave many students without awards despite volunteering.”
AmeriCorps has not provided a clear explanation for suspending applications. However, some analyze that volunteer programs were impacted after the Donald Trump administration cut nearly $400 million from AmeriCorps’ budget. This is an interpretation rather than an official statement from AmeriCorps.
Won-Sik Myung, President of youth volunteer group PAVA, said, “Changes in government structure and budgeting led to the suspension of PVSA certifying organization applications. Many parents are asking about alternatives, and we are currently researching other volunteer awards.”
AmeriCorps has not announced when PVSA certifying organization applications will resume. It has only stated that certifying organizations can no longer access their accounts during this suspension. As an alternative, AmeriCorps has recommended the Daily Point of Light Award, which is awarded by the White House.
Evelyn Joo, a 50-year-old Irvine resident with a high school child, said, “My child volunteered every weekend, so the sudden PVSA suspension is confusing. Parents are now sharing information and asking organizations about alternative awards.”
PVSA awards are given in Gold, Silver, and Bronze levels based on age and volunteer hours. For example, students aged 11 to 15 need over 100 hours of volunteering for the Gold level. If PVSA certifying organization applications are suspended before they reach 100 hours, students cannot receive the award despite completing the hours.
Andy Lee, CEO of Elite Open School, said, “Parents are probably wondering what to do about their child’s volunteer or leadership activities. The most practical alternative now is the Congressional Award, which is operating without suspension.”
However, some experts say there is no need for excessive concern.
Richard Myung, CEO of AGM Institute, which advises on college admissions, said, “We are receiving many calls about the PVSA suspension, but it will not significantly impact college admissions. Awards like PVSA are just checklist items for admission officers. What’s more important is how students demonstrate holistic growth.”
PVSA was launched in 2003 under the George W. Bush administration to encourage community service among students.
BY YEOL JANG [jang.yeol@koreadaily.com]
