We’re certain you’ve heard of AmeriCorps and it probably brings to mind good people doing good things – but what exactly is the AmeriCorps program?
Founded in 1994, AmeriCorps’ efforts are anchored in six key areas: disaster services, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and veterans and military families. AmeriCorps is just one vehicle used by the Corporation for National and Community Service to fulfill its mission of improving lives, strengthening communities, and fostering civic participation through service and volunteering. More than 75,000 individuals participate in AmeriCorps service each year at more than 15,000 locations nationwide; and more impressively, these men and women mobilize an additional 4 million volunteers throughout our communities.
AmeriCorps’ most comprehensive work is done through its State and National program which provides grant funding to local and national organizations that in turn use the funds to recruit, place, and supervise AmeriCorps members. These organizations compete for AmeriCorps funding by proposing to engage AmeriCorps members in evidence-based or evidence-informed interventions to strengthen the communities in which we live.
In addition, AmeriCorps VISTA uses full-time members to fight poverty and AmeriCorps NCCC (National Civilian Community Corps) provides a residential program for service members ages 18-24 to carry out projects in public safety, the environment, youth development, and disaster relief and preparedness. AmeriCorps also operates Senior Corps, which connects the talents and interests of those over the age of 55 with organizations that need them most. Seniors may serve as mentors, coaches, companions for people in need, or they may choose to provide job skills and expertise to various community projects and organizations.
AmeriCorps offers part-time and full-time service opportunities that range from eight weeks to 12 months. Members receive a living allowance, health care, childcare if needed, and other benefits. Click here to conduct a detailed search of available opportunities.
If you are an organization interested in building an AmeriCorps team, Words for Good® has assisted multiple clients in their preparation of successful AmeriCorps grant applications.
