AmeriCorps
What is AmeriCorps?
AmeriCorps is a voluntary civil society program supported by the U.S. federal government, foundations, corporations, and other donors that engages adults in public service work with a goal of helping others and meeting critical needs in the community.
Members commit to full-time or part-time positions offered by a network of nonprofit community organizations and public agencies in a range of programmatic areas:
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AmeriCorps is comprised of four main program areas for people under the age of 55:
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State and National - State and National members, ages 17 and older, serve in either teams or individually through national and community-based private and public organizations. Members help solve community problems through direct and indirect service, in the areas of education, public safety, the environment, and other human needs such as health and housing.
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NCCC - National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) members range from ages 18 to 24 and serve in a 10-month team-based residential program (teams usually include 10-14 individuals) to complete a variety of projects in the areas of education, disaster services, the environment, and other unmet needs. NCCC members often travel to projects throughout their region. You may either apply for the Fall Class, which begins in the September/October timeframe, or apply for the Winter Class, which begins in January.
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VISTA - Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) members, ages 18 and older, perform capacity building activities, over a course of a year, through private non-profit organizations and public agencies. VISTA members address issues related to poverty, such as public health, education, the environment, public safety, and employment, by developing and mobilizing resources that create long-term sustainable benefits at a community level.
What Are the Benefits of Volunteering with AmeriCorps?
As an AmeriCorps member, you will gain hands-on experience working for some of the best non-profit organizations across the country. However, this volunteer opportunity has other benefits besides learning new skills:
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Living Allowance:
Every AmeriCorps member receives a modest living allowance to cover basic expenses during your service term. That's right, you get paid!
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Loan Deferment and Interest Forbearance:
Individuals in approved AmeriCorps positions are eligible for forbearance for most federally guaranteed student loans. In addition, interest payments that accrue during service may be eligible for repayment by AmeriCorps.
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Money for College and Trade School
The Segal AmeriCorps Education Award is offered to individuals who complete a term of service and can be used to pay for a range of educational expenses, like repaying qualified student loans or future tuition payments. You can earn up to two full Education Awards with multiple service terms.
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Alumni Network
Join a network of like-minded leaders who are passionate about improving communities. AmeriCorps alumni receive access to special benefits and resources. For example, many colleges and universities match the Education Award and offer additional AmeriCorps scholarships.
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Professional Development
Jump-start your career and gain transferable skills employers value including leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. Once you complete your service, leverage the Employers of National Service network, which connects you with hundreds of employers from the private, public, and nonprofit sectors who are committed to hiring alumni.