Are you a New York State resident interested in high quality opportunities in community service activities in exchange for an education award? AmeriCorps is the national service initiative that provides funding for nonprofit organizations, agencies and educational institutions to run local programs that engage individuals from all backgrounds in community service activities. Now in its tenth year, more than 2,500 AmeriCorps members serve annually in New York State, and more than 75,000 serve nationally. They address the most pressing education, public safety, homeland security, and human and environmental challenges facing our communities.

Who Is Eligible?

In return for the successful completion of their service, members of AmeriCorps programs receive money for school in the form of an education award that can be applied to outstanding student loans or to future higher educational and vocational training pursuits.

What Awards Are Available?

Full-time AmeriCorps members perform 1,700 hours of service and upon completion, earn an education award of $4,725. Full-time AmeriCorps members may also receive a living allowance, health insurance, and if eligible, child care. Part-time members perform up to 900 hours of service and upon completion, earn an education award of up to $2,363. In some cases, part-time members are also eligible for a living allowance.

When Should You Apply?

It varies. Each AmeriCorps site is run locally, so recruitment strategies, living allowances, service projects and program service designs vary from one site to the next.

How Do You Find Out More Information?

Information about New York State programs can be found by contacting:
NYS Office for National and Community Service
Office of Children & Family Services
52 Washington St.
Rensselaer, NY 12144
or by visiting AmeriCorps