Want to be an AmeriCorps Member?
LISC Jacksonville in conjunction with the Corporation for National Service and local non-profit community development corporations (CDCs) sponsors an AmeriCorps program that begins in September of each year.
The LISC/AmeriCorps program helps to develop new leadership by providing an opportunity for people to serve with a CDC in their community and receive the training necessary to continue in the field. Nationwide, 30% of the members from last year's program were hired by their CDC or other community-based development organizations.
S Volunteers will be assigned to work directly with a grassroots CDC in Jacksonville to provide assistance in outreach and marketing activities for the success of neighborhood programs. Activities in a typical day might include holding community meetings; organizing community building activities; providing counseling to potential community residents on sensitive family financial matters; researching and providing information on affordable mortgage financing and properties; working with business and skilled volunteers to design and implement classes on buying and maintaining houses; coordinating with other neighborhood groups. AmeriCorps members receive extensive training both on the job and in structured local, regional, and national sessions.
Prospective applicants should have at a minimum a high school diploma or equivalent, some volunteer experience, and possess excellent communication, organizational, interpersonal, and computer skills. Knowledge of affordable housing or community development preferred but not required. The desire to work with communities for their betterment is essential.
LISC/AmeriCorps offers a modest living stipend of $18,000 for one year of service, basic health insurance, and an education award of $4,725 at the completion of service. Some members may also be eligible for a limited child care benefit.
If you are interested in a full-time, one year commitment to national service please contact Lorraine Cochrane in the Jacksonville LISC office at (904) 353-1300 Ext. 17 or e-mail him at lcochrane@lisc.org.
