By Secretary of State Phil McGrane
Highlights from the Idaho Secretary of State’s Office
March 13, 2026
Service has always been at the heart of the American story. As our nation approaches America’s 250th anniversary, we have a unique opportunity not only to reflect on our history but to inspire communities across Idaho to serve, volunteer, and strengthen the places we call home. One powerful example of that spirit of service is AmeriCorps.
This week we marked AmeriCorps Week, celebrating the theme “AmeriCorps in Action: Americans Serving America.” The theme reminds us that America’s strength has always come from ordinary citizens who step forward to serve their neighbors and communities. Across the country, AmeriCorps members, alumni, volunteers, program leaders, and community champions demonstrate that America’s greatness is built through the extraordinary acts of everyday people, mentoring students, rebuilding communities after disasters, restoring public lands, supporting veterans, and helping families achieve stability.
My own commitment to public service was shaped in part by my experience with AmeriCorps. From August 2002 to 2003, I served with Habitat for Humanity in Anniston, Alabama, through AmeriCorps. During that year, I helped coordinate and oversee hundreds of volunteers as part of a massive effort to build 40 homes for families in need. It was an incredible experience that reinforced the power of teamwork and community service.
Habitat for Humanity’s mission aligned perfectly with my desire to serve others and strengthen communities. While in Alabama, I had the opportunity to meet Habitat for Humanity founders Millard and Linda Fuller, as well as former President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter, whose dedication to service continues to inspire millions.
Looking back, that year of service helped shape my career in public service. Early in my career in Ada County, I worked closely with passionate volunteers who help run our elections, people who give their time and energy to ensure our process works. My AmeriCorps experience helped prepare me to work with volunteers and appreciate the important role they play in our system of government.
The impact of AmeriCorps extends far beyond individual experiences. Since 1994, more than 1.3 million Americans have served through AmeriCorps, contributing 1.9 billion hours of service nationwide. Each year, about 185,000 members serve at more than 30,000 locations, addressing local challenges and mobilizing volunteers to expand community programs.
As we look toward America’s 250th birthday, one of the most meaningful ways we can celebrate our nation is by serving our neighbors and investing in our communities. From the founding of our country to today, America has always depended on citizens who step forward to help others and strengthen the places where they live.
I am grateful for the volunteers, service organizations, and community leaders who dedicate their time to improving the lives of others.
Above: Secretary McGrane on his volunteer site in Anniston, Alabama
I encourage Idahoans to support local service organizations and consider volunteering in their communities. By stepping forward to serve, we honor our shared history and help ensure that the spirit of Americans serving America continues for generations to come.
Phil McGrane
About Phil McGrane
Phil McGrane was elected Idaho’s twenty-eighth Secretary of State and took office on January 2, 2023. McGrane served as elected Clerk of Ada County from 2019-2022. McGrane holds a bachelor's degree in philosophy, a juris doctorate, and a Master of Public Administration. As a fourth-generation Idahoan, Phil has dedicated his career to making elections in the state of Idaho accessible, secure and transparent.
