What is AmeriCorps?

AmeriCorps (pronounced Ameri-core) is a network of local, state, and national service programs that connects more than 70,000 Americans each year in intensive service to meet our country's critical needs in education, public safety, health, and the environment. - AmeriCorps website

AmeriCorps is program of the Corporation of National and Community Service (CNCS) and began in 1994. AmeriCorps is commonly described as a domesticated Peace Corps. AmeriCorps members commit to a year of full-time service.

There are three programs under the umbrella of AmeriCorps:

AmeriCorps*State & *National
AmeriCorps*VISTA
AmeriCorps*NCCC (National Community Civilian Corps)

Habitat for Humanity-Greater Columbus has taken part in 2 of the 3 AmeriCorps programs: AmeriCorps*State & *National and AmeriCorps*VISTA.

What benefits do AmeriCorps members receive?

Intangible Benefits:

• Chance to help others/perform community service
• Explore future job/education interests
• Learn about and work with other ethnic/cultural groups
• Ability to be apart of a national movement
• Meet new people
• Put your faith into action
• Learn about poverty/poverty housing issues
• Get involved with Habitat

What is Habitat for Humanity-Greater Columbus?

Habitat for Humanity-Greater Columbus (HFHGC) is a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing ministry that works in partnership with God and people to build affordable homes, empower families and develop communities.

Habitat for Humanity-Greater Columbus has been serving the Columbus area since 1987 and is in process of building its 200th house.

What positions are available for the 2008-09 service year?

AmeriCorps*VISTA positions

• ReStore Donor Relations VISTA member: FILLED
• ReStore Volunteer Relations Vista member. FILLED
• Construction Operations VISTA member: FILLED

What is the difference between the AmeriCorps*State and AmeriCorps*VISTA programs?

AmeriCorps*VISTA, and AmeriCorps*State Direct are not as interchangeable as you think. AmeriCorps has 3 programs underneath its umbrella, which include AmeriCorps*VISTA and AmeriCorps*State programs - the two programs we have had at our affiliate. VISTAs are not State Directs and State Directs are not VISTAs, but ALL are AmeriCorps members. Each program under AmeriCorps has its distinct reason for existence and niche that it fills.

HFH AmeriCorps*State Program Objectives:

• Members will increase the quality of life for low-income families by building and renovating houses with Habitat partner families
• Members will strengthen communities by enabling Habitat for Humanity affiliates to utilize more volunteers more effectively, bringing diverse partners together in a common cause
• Members will develop their skills in construction and leadership by serving as crew leaders for community volunteers on a daily basis
• Members will develop their sense of citizenship through their service and reflection, and by being inspired by the hundreds of volunteers each of them will serve alongside

HFH AmeriCorps*VISTA Program Objectives:

• Members will mobilize resources, link agencies with each other, and garner donations from local businesses and organizations
• Members will organize community events, obtain resources to initiate and sustain project activities, and recruit members of the community to volunteer to solve their own problems
• Members will provide training and other support to local residents as needed and establish or expand program activities to acquire funding, in-kind resources, volunteers and community support to create sustainability

Will I be required to have a car?

Yes, you will need to have your own transportation to and from the office and to the sites. You will also need to have your driver's license and a good driving record. The position may require you to visit community agencies periodically.

How do I apply?

We are currently not taking applications at this time. Please check back in early 2009.

Interested applicants should also submit a resume to Deb Light at dlight@habitat-columbus.org or fax it to (614) 414-0432

I've submitted my application and resume, now what?

HFHGC will review applications and resumes and set up interviews with potential candidates.

How can I learn more?

For more information regarding the AmeriCorps program, please visit http://www.americorps.gov/

Who can I contact about the AmeriCorps program at HFHGC?