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AmeriCorps

The American tradition of service dates back to our nation’s founding more than 200 years ago. Americans have always carried the American tradition of service, helping others and making our nation stronger through military service, the Civilian Conservation Corps, Peace Corps, and in other ways. The Americorps members are carrying the tradition of service, and taking an active role as citizens by making a difference for their own and other lives.

The Americorps program was established by our former President Bill Clinton, when the National and Community Service Act of 1993 were signed into law. This legislation created Americorps and the Corporation for National and Community Service. In September 1994, the first class of Americorps members, 20,000 strong, began service in more than 1,000 communities in the United States. By October 2000, Americorps members grew to more than 175,000 members.

In the local CNMI setting, the program will recruit 33 part time members, who will be serving in established community centers and high schools throughout Rota, Saipan, and Tinian. Members will be a part of a national network, be paid a living allowance, and also qualify for an educational award of $2362.50 after the successful completion of 900 hours for one year of service.

Members will also receive required specialized training in areas such as:  self development, heath awareness, college preparatory, computer skills, and tutoring methods. Trainings should help prepare members for further community service and/or career opportunities.

The purpose of the Americorps program is to promote service and develop dedicated role models for our local community.

Americorps Services

Members will be responsible for assisting in enrichment activities and academic assistance. Some of those service activities may include: basic tutoring, homework assistance, and mentoring (peer counseling). Members will assist with basic computer skills, arts & crafts, performing arts, media and radio production; and sports and recreation. Members will uphold Americorps ethics and values and instill those ethics on all youth they are committed to serving. Members will play an important role in helping promote the well being of the youth in safe, drug free havens.

Americorps Monthly Agendas

On-site Center visits by AmeriCorps representative to motivate members and to discuss center activities, plans for future community involvement, success stories, and challenges and to monitor effectiveness of AmeriCorps services.

Americorps Goals

  • Getting Things Done. Americorps members help communities solve problems in the areas of education, public safety, the environment, and other human needs (like health and housing)by serving directly and by getting other people to serve as volunteers.
  • Strengthening Communities. Americorps members help unite individuals from all different backgrounds and organizations of all kinds in a common effort to improve communities.
  • Encouraging Responsibility. Americorps members explore and exercise their responsibilities, their families, and themselves during their service experience and throughout their lives.
  • Expanding Opportunity. Americorps helps those who help America. Americorps members receive awards to further their education or to pay student loans. They also gain valuable job experience, specialized training, and other skills.

Americorps Pledge

I will get things done for America-to make

our people safer, smarter, and healthier,

I will bring Americans together to strengthen our communities.

Faced with apathy, I will take action.

Faced with conflict, I will seek common ground.

Faced with adversity, I will persevere.

I will carry this commitment with me this year and beyond

I am an Americorps member, and I will get things done.