Making a Difference with Americorps

Published in the February issue of Next Step Magazine:

http://www.nextstepu.com/articlePage1.aspx?artId=3731&categoryId=43

If you want to have a positive impact on a community while earning money for college, then you may want to consider joining AmeriCorps.

AmeriCorps consists of three programs:

1) AmeriCorps State and National, 2) AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America), and 3) AmeriCorps NCCC (National Civilian Community Corps). AmeriCorps State and National members work with organizations to address community needs in education, public safety, health and the environment.

VISTA members serve with community organizations to build programs geared toward bringing low-income individuals and communities out of poverty. AmeriCorps NCCC is a full-time residential program for people aged 18-24, in which members work intensively in a particular community.

Benefits of service

AmeriCorps members receive health coverage, training, deferment for student loans, a modest stipend to cover living expenses and many also receive housing assistance. Full-time members who complete their service receive $5,350 to pay for college, grad school or existing student loans. (Those who work part time receive a partial award.)

Giving back

One of the most rewarding parts of working with AmeriCorps is the chance to create a positive impact on others’ lives. Robin Solash worked with AmeriCorps’ Northwest Service Academy as an environmental education provider in Toledo, Ore. She implemented environmental service learning activities for middle school students and ran an after-school program.

“I got to meet many different people, and I also got a chance to help out in a community that really needed it.”

Visit AmeriCorps.gov for more info about each of its programs.