AmeriCorps is a national service program that provides opportunities for citizens to serve their communities. Participants in AmeriCorps, known as "members," join a local program and provide intensive community service.
Nationally, AmeriCorps Members serve with more than 3,000 nonprofits, public agencies, and faith-based organizations. Since 1994, more than 400,000 men and women have provided needed assistance to communities across the nation through their AmeriCorps service.
More details at www.americorps.gov
AmeriCorps members gain new skills. As an AmeriCorps member, you will join a group of people with many different backgrounds and life experiences, but you will share a common desire to contribute and to improve your community and country. You will learn collaboration, communication, leadership and other life skills. Upon completion of service, you may receive an education award to help pay for college or graduate school, or to pay back qualified student loans. While serving, you may receive a modest living allowance, as well as health benefits, training and student loan deferment. Some members are eligible for health care and child care benefits.
AmeriCorps opens the door for citizens to serve in a variety of ways. Through their service and the volunteers they mobilize, AmeriCorps members address critical needs in communities throughout America, including:
Be part of the solution. Volunteer with a nonprofit or community agency and provide much needed assistance to fellow Americans in the fields of health, education, the environment or one of the many other AmeriCorps programs. Serve with a State or National Program, be a VISTA or join the National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC). At the end of your service, receive money for college or to pay back student loans. These are just a few of the benefits of joining AmeriCorps.
1. Decide which program you wish to apply for. Search for a program that matches your interests. Visit AmeriCorps.gov learn about the mission of AmeriCorps and the programs available.
2. Ensure that you are a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident alien. You must meet minimum age requirements for each program. The NCCC has a maximum age limit of 24.
3. Complete and submit your application online or through the mail. Application materials for all programs are available online. Complete all sections, answering questions about your educational, volunteer and work histories, and any criminal record.
4. Enclose two completed reference forms with your application. Each referee should be able to comment on your ability to work with others, your work performance and your aptitude for the AmeriCorps program.
5. Prepare for your interview. Each program has its own interview process. Prepare a list of your own questions. Be prepared to answer questions about your personal life and your professional skills.
6. Receive a formal acceptance packet in the mail. The packet will clearly state the time within which you may reject or accept the position. If you accept, you will be sent details about the required orientation. If you do not reply by the given deadline, your place will be given to another applicant.
7. Attend the AmeriCorps training and orientation provided. Once AmeriCorps training is completed you will start working at your site. AmeriCorps