What happened to the PVSA?
AmeriCorps, which runs the PVSA, announced a temporary pause effective May 27, 2025. During the pause no new awards are accepted, and certifying organizations cannot access their accounts. No date to resume has been announced as of this guide’s last update.
Your hours still matter
The award paused, not the value of your service. Volunteer hours still help with:
- College applications. The activities section asks how many hours per week and weeks per year you spent on each activity.
- Scholarships. Many community-service scholarships ask for a documented record of your hours.
- School and club requirements. Honor societies, service clubs and graduation requirements often set hour minimums.
- Other awards. The Congressional Award is open to ages 13½ to 23 and recognizes public service along with personal development, fitness and exploration.
What to do now
- Keep logging every hour with the date, organization, what you did and a supervisor contact.
- Save proof such as sign-in sheets, photos or a confirmation email.
- Pick another goal. See the Congressional Award requirements; volunteer hours count toward its Voluntary Public Service area.
- Be ready if the PVSA returns. A clean, dated log means you can apply quickly if the program reopens.
Frequently asked questions
Is the President’s Volunteer Service Award still available?
AmeriCorps paused the PVSA program on May 27, 2025, and new awards are not being accepted. As of this guide’s last update, no date to resume has been announced.
Do my volunteer hours still count if the PVSA is paused?
Yes. Service hours still matter for college and scholarship applications, school and club requirements, and other awards such as the Congressional Award. Keep logging them with dates and proof.