It is extremely tough deciding on the next step after graduation. Some students are stressed out with the idea of finding a job and others don’t even know which career to choose. The AmeriCorps program can aid a student in finding that “right” job while lending a hand to others.
There are over 1,000 local and national programs that make up AmeriCorps and they are run by well-known organizations. The Boys and Girls Club, The American Red Cross, and Habitat for Humanity are just a few of them.
According to their website, americorps.com, “AmeriCorps members serve with more than 2,000 nonprofits, public agencies, and faith-based and community organizations. Since 1994, more than 400,000 men and women have provided needed assistance to millions of Americans across the nation through their AmeriCorps service.”
AmeriCorps can make a difference in a student’s life and in the lives of others that need the assistance. There are a few organizations that students can choose from: State/National, Vista and NCCC.
The State and National AmeriCorps are for those that would like to assist a national, state or local organization. The projects vary from tutoring students, helping the homeless, caring for seniors, building homes, etc. These programs are flexible with full and part-time positions, but one must be 17 to join.
AmeriCorps Vista is for those that would like to bring individuals and communities out of poverty. The projects include improving education, creating small businesses, expanding health services, increasing housing opportunities and more. Vista programs are located throughout the country, but the person interested must make a full-time commitment for one year. A college degree or a minimum of three years of work or volunteer experience is preferred.
NCCC members work, live and serve on a team that travels to projects within a specific region of the country. Priority is given to disaster relief. Those interested must know that they have to serve full-time for 10 months and must live with team members. One must be 18-24 to join.
There are many projects to choose from, so there will be an AmeriCorps program that is right for everyone. Beyond deciding on a career path and helping others there are many skills one can learn while doing this like collaboration, leadership and communication.
While serving, members will receive a modest living allowance, as well as health benefits, training, and loan deferment. After completion of desired program, members may receive an AmeriCorps Education Award to help pay for college or to pay back student loans.
“Full-time members who complete their service earn a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $4,725 to pay for college, graduate school, or to pay back qualified student loans. Members who serve part-time receive a partial Award. Some AmeriCorps members may also receive a modest living allowance during their term of service,” according to the AmeriCorps official website.