AmericorpsAmericorps, often described as a domestic version of the Peace Corps, is a network of more than 2,000 non-profits, public agencies, and community organizations that hire volunteers to complete service projects to benefit community needs in education, the environment, public safety, health, and homeland security. Americorps volunteers are typically college graduates who are taking a year before entering the workforce or graduate school to provide community service. Read on to learn more about what this program entails.

What Is the History of the Americorps Program?

This program, an initiative of the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), was created under President Bill Clinton with the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993. The program’s first year of operation was in 1994; since that inaugural session, it has expanded to over 80,000 volunteers per year.

What Are the Three Americorps Programs?

Americorps is made up of three subprograms. The first and largest, Americorps State and National, recruits volunteers to help address “critical community needs in education, public safety, health, and the environment.” A second program, Americorps VISTA, focuses specifically on projects for nonprofit, faith-based and other community organizations that help alleviate poverty. AmeriCorps NCCC – FEMA Corps is a residential program that helps strengthen and train future leaders. Learn more about the three programs at the official government Americorps website.

What are the Benefits of Joining Americorps?

Those who volunteer with the Americorps program spend ten to twelve months working on a full time basis for a specific initiative. During the time of service, each member receives a living stipend. Upon completion of the program, Americorps alumni are eligible to receive the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award, which pays up to $5,730 to be used toward tuition, books, or other educational costs. In addition, those Americorps alumni who have federal student loans are eligible for student loan forgiveness programs available through the government, according to the Americorps website.

Who Is Eligible to Become an Americorps Member?

While requirements vary depending on the service project, in general Americorps members must be at least 17 years old and a U.S. citizen or national resident. Some programs are open to those with just a high school diploma, while others require you to be a college graduate and/or have several years of work experience. Special skills, fluency in a second language, or experience with science, technology, mathematics, and engineering are all excellent qualifications for potential volunteers. In addition. those who serve with certain programs, especially those working with children and the elderly, must undergo a criminal background check, as well as drug screening and a comprehensive physical exam.

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If you’re interested in making a difference in the lives of real people in the United States, while gaining work experience and offsetting your college expenses, Americorps may be the ideal solution for you.