What is AmeriCorps?

AmeriCorps offers a variety of service opportunities, from the classroom to the outdoors, and everything in between. No matter what you're passionate about, where you're from, or why you choose to serve, AmeriCorps is your chance to Be the Greater Good. Check out this video for a quick rundown, share with your networks, and encourage others to find an AmeriCorps opportunity and join AmeriCorps.


 

 

 


The above video may include external links to Youtube’s video platform. Youtube’s privacy and security practices and policies may differ from CNCS'. CNCS is not responsible for these links nor does it endorse the content of the third-party website (Read more).
 


 

BE THE GREATER GOOD.
JOIN AMERICORPS.

Learn more about your options to serve including service locations, programs, and durations. 

Join AmeriCorps

 


 

Top AmeriCorps FAQs

So, what is AmeriCorps?

AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs, made up of three primary programs that each take a different approach to improving lives and fostering civic engagement. Members commit their time to address critical community needs like increasing academic achievement, mentoring youth, fighting poverty, sustaining national parks, preparing for disasters, and more.

How does AmeriCorps Get Things Done?

Approximately 75,000 Americans across the country participate in AmeriCorps each year. All of them are tackle different community needs in different ways.

Can you give me some examples, please?

Of course, here are just a few examples:

  1. AmeriCorps members help communities recover from the damage caused by natural and other disasters.
  2. AmeriCorps members build affordable housing units for families to increase economic opportunity for those living in poverty.
  3. AmeriCorps members facilitate mentorship programs to connect students with community members who can help with academic performance and college preparation.
  4. AmeriCorps members remove trash and other man-made debris from local ponds to promote environmental sustainability.
  5. AmeriCorps members encourage community members to donate fresh produce to local schools to promote healthy futures and reduce childhood obesity.
  6. AmeriCorps members assist veterans and military families in filing for benefits claims, so they get access to the resources they need.

What makes someone an AmeriCorps “member"?

AmeriCorps members are dedicated to strengthening communities. AmeriCorps members can choose to commit to service anywhere from 3 months to a year.

Why is it a “Corps”?

Similar to the Military or the Peace Corps, it is another form of service to our country.

But it looks different than it sounds - The correct pronunciation is (kôr) like the core of the earth or the core of an apple, but spelled with a silent “p”.

Why should someone be an AmeriCorps member?

To make our people safer, stronger and healthier; to strengthen our communities; and to Get Things Done for America. Read why individuals joined AmeriCorps and find out the impact they made during their year of service. 

View AmeriCorps Member Stories >

Are there perks?

In addition to the reward of serving your country and giving back? Yes, the benefits of service include, but are not limited to:

  • Student loan deferment
  • Skills and training
  • Living allowance
  • Limited health benefit options
  • Education Award upon completion of service to help pay for college, graduate school, or vocational training, or to repay student loans
  • Career opportunities with leading employers from the private, public and nonprofit sectors

I have a million more questions, where do I go to learn more?

Start on the AmeriCorps homepage and check out AmeriCorps FAQs.

Download an MP4 file of this video

Would you like to show this video at a conference or a meeting that lacks a trusted internet connection? Download the video at the following link. 

Download MP4 Video File


View All AmeriCorps FAQs

 

 

Show Nav
Back to Top