Eric Hoffman Honored as Wisconsin’s 2026 AmeriCorps Alumni of the Year
Each year, Wisconsin recognizes a remarkable group of individuals and organizations committed to meeting pressing community needs through national service. This year, that group included our very own Eric Hoffman, Executive Director of Wisconsin Programs!
At the 2026 Governor’s Service Awards, hosted by Serve Wisconsin (the state’s service commission), Eric was named AmeriCorps Alumni of the Year – one of just 14 individuals honored for their extraordinary commitment to service. Held at Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison, the ceremony brought together state leaders, volunteers, and community partners to recognize the lasting impact of service.
Governor Tony Evers praised this year’s recipients, noting that they have “done extraordinary work in service for communities all across the state” and highlighting the important role service plays in building stronger communities.
Celebrating a Legacy of Service
Eric’s recognition reflects more than two decades of dedication to supporting Wisconsin communities. An AmeriCorps member from 2004 to 2006, Eric credits his national service experience with setting him on a lifelong path in the nonprofit sector.
Since joining Ampact nearly a decade ago, he has played a pivotal role in expanding Reading Corps and Math Corps across Wisconsin, helping bring evidence-based tutoring to tens of thousands of students. His career embodies the AmeriCorps mission – to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic engagement through service.
Recognizing The Power of Service
The Governor’s Service Awards celebrate more than individual accomplishments – it recognizes the collective impact of national service throughout Wisconsin.
During the ceremony, Governor Evers thanked this year’s honorees for improving lives in countless ways and reaffirmed Wisconsin’s commitment to supporting those who serve. Declaring 2026 the “Year of the Neighbor,” he encouraged more Wisconsinites to follow the example of those recognized for their service.
Serve Wisconsin Executive Director Kyle Clower echoed that sentiment, calling the honorees “the very best of Wisconsin”, celebrating their ability to inspire others through compassion and action. As part of this year’s event, AmeriCorps members also packed more than 2,000 snack packs and 1,800 menstrual hygiene kits for local nonprofits, demonstrating that service remained at the heart of the celebration.
Congratulations, Eric!
Eric’s recognition as a 2026 AmeriCorps Alumni of the Year is a reflection of the leadership, partnership, and unwavering commitment he has brought to Wisconsin students, schools, and communities throughout his career.
From serving as an AmeriCorps member more than 20 years ago to leading programs that have helped tens of thousands of students strengthen their reading and math skills, Eric’s journey demonstrates how one decision to serve can create lasting impact for generations to come.
Congratulations, Eric, on this well-deserved honor! We are grateful for your leadership and proud to celebrate this incredible achievement alongside you.
