About AmeriCorps
What is AmeriCorps?
AmeriCorps is the federal agency for national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps provides opportunities for Americans of all backgrounds to serve their country, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, and improve lives and communities.
Who are AmeriCorps members?
AmeriCorps members are engaged in National Service and are not volunteers or employees. They play a unique role in a community or organization to address unmet needs.
What types of programs are there?
AmeriCorps VISTA
AmeriCorps VISTA, or Volunteers in Service to America, is a national service program that helps reduce poverty by providing resources to public agencies and nonprofit organizations. VISTA members work with these organizations to create or expand programs that help communities and individuals overcome poverty. VISTA members are recruited nationally and are often recent college graduates who are boosting a resume, volunteers looking for options for retirement, highly-skilled individuals, or experienced community leaders.
VISTA members sign up with partner agencies for a full-time year of service. These members leverage service-learning opportunities and are placed at nonprofits to help strengthen systems and create a more sustainable approach to existing programs that fight poverty.
AmeriCorps State
Founded in 1994, AmeriCorps falls under the umbrella of the Corporation for National and Community Service. States are allocated resources to target specific issues unique and relevant to that state. In Arizona, the Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith, and Family oversee the AmeriCorps State program, expanding volunteer opportunities. AmeriCorps State members can serve in both part and full-time capacities.
Other AmeriCorps Programs
Other AmeriCorps programs exist around the country, including AmeriCorps NCCC and AmeriCorps Seniors. To learn more about all AmeriCorps Programs, visit the federal AmeriCorps website.