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Programs

What is AmeriCorps?

 

AmeriCorps

AmeriCorps is a national service program that engages citizens in solving community problems. Members commit to full-time or part-time positions offered by a network of nonprofits, faith and secular community-based organizations, public agencies, Indian tribes, and institutions of higher education to fulfill assignments in the fields of disaster services, economic opportunity, education,  environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and veterans and military families. Members serve in these positions over a 10-12 month period.

AmeriCorps is a program of the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), an independent federal government agency.

AmeriCorps State and National

AmeriCorps is funded through grants that are administered either at the state level or through organizations that operate in two or more states (AmeriCorps National). Organizations that operate solely in Washington typically apply for grants through Serve Washington (AmeriCorps State).

Organizations use their AmeriCorps funding to recruit, place, and supervise AmeriCorps members.

Prospective AmeriCorps members either apply directly to the program or through the MyAmeriCorps online portal operated by CNCS. Application processes vary, depending on the program. Our staff are able to answer questions about the application process and the kinds of programs available in our state. 

AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC)

AmeriCorps NCCC is a full-time, residential team-based program for men and women ages 18–24. Members serve at one of five regional campuses located throughout the country. Each campus focuses efforts on states within its region but may travel to other areas in response to national crises. The Sacramento, CA, campus serves the western region of the U.S., and manages the application process for both program participants and prospective project sponsors in our state.

AmeriCorps VISTA

VISTA provides full-time members to nonprofit, faith-based and other community organizations, and public agencies to create and expand programs that ultimately bring low-income individuals and communities out of poverty. VISTA in our state is administered by the Washington State Office of the CNCS, in Seattle.

 

What is Senior Corps

Senior Corps

Senior Corps connects today’s 55+ with the people and organizations that need them most. Programs help them become mentors, coaches or companions to people in need, or contribute their job skills and expertise to community projects and organizations. Volunteers receive guidance and training so they can make a contribution that suits their talents, interests, and availability. Funding for Senior Corps is directly through the CNCS State Office in Seattle. There are three types of Senior Corps programs:

Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)

RSVP connects volunteers age 55 and over with service opportunities in their communities that match their skills and availability.

Senior Companions Program (SCP)

SCP brings together volunteers age 55 and over with adults in their community who have difficulty with the simple tasks of day-to-day living.

Foster Grandparents Program

This program connects volunteers age 55 and over with children and youth in their communities.