Anyone done Americorps?

[Lentils4Lunch]

The idea just popped into my head that I could take a sabbatical from my job and do AmeriCorps, working for an organization that I'm familiar with (Reading Partners). Anyone on here ever done that?

[Jaketucson]

So I didn't *technically* do Americorps, but after graduating from college I did a year with the Jesuit Volunteer Corps and was eligible for Americorps money because of it. I had no plans to continue with grad school and at the time was disillusioned with the fact that I had worked for an accounting degree, so I never pursued the Americorps money.  That being said...I would heartily encourage it.  You didn't say how old you are, but at the time I was in my early 20's (now staring at 40...) and it was certainly the most formative year in my adult life.  I worked with homeless and disabled individuals who were deemed incompetent of managing their disability and welfare benefits.  If you are at a place in your life where you can "step away" and pursue something like this, I would say that you will not regret it.  I was at a point where I did it right after college, and intentionally pursued a volunteer experience rather than immediately enter the workforce.  I could go on and on, but one of the "bottom lines" I took away from the experience is the importance of being of service to others, and being a part of something bigger than yourself. There were certainly challenges along the way, and I probably didn't feel like I hit a groove until I was about 4 months into the experience.  If you are at a point in your life where you are considering further education for yourself, the Americorps money may be worth it from a financial standpoint. 

I did a quick read on Reading Partners' website.  Looks like a great org. Know going into it that you may experience an overwhelming amount of heartbreak, sadness, and anger as you get to know these kids and their stories.  But you will also experience an equal amount of joy, pride, and satisfaction/contentment as you see some (hopefully all) the kids you work with make strides because of your involvement.  Good luck as you discern this path!

[Lentils4Lunch]

Thanks for your perspective! When you say "AmeriCorps Money", are you talking about the stipend?

I'm mid-30s and contemplating taking a sabbatical or just some kind of break from corporate America. Your comment about feeling like you are part of something larger than yourself really resonates and I think I'm sort of missing that type of higher purpose in my day job.

[Jaketucson]

By "Americorps money" I meant the education award one could receive at the end of their service, not a weekly or monthly stipend.  My org paid my stipend.  I have no idea what the current program rules/benefits are (I did my volunteer service in 2000-2001).  At the time, we had to complete paperwork throughout the year and at the end of the program, and then we received an education benefit that could be used for grad school tuition or other education-type expenses.  Most people I knew used it when they went on to grad school.  One friend used hers for a study-abroad type trip to Nicaragua through her former university.  It's possible they have student loan payoff programs as well, but like I said I'm not familiar with current rules. 

Obviously I am biased, and I know people that did similar volunteer programs and did not have positive experiences, but I don't think you will regret it.  Especially if you are disillusioned with corporate work.  I have a friend that actually did Americorps (along with his wife, before they were married), then worked for them in grad school.  I'll see if I can get him to post as well.  Good luck!

[MandalayVA]

Liz of the Frugalwoods blog was in AmeriCorps:

http://www.frugalwoods.com/2016/01/28/before-we-were-mr-and-mrs-frugalwoods/

[westtoeast]

Hello,

I did AmeriCorps right after college at an education non-profit. For me, it was a great way to launch an education career. My effectiveness in my role increased dramatically over the course of the year and I wanted to build on that progress so I went to grad school for teaching after my service ended. AmeriCorps would be an awesome choice for you if you are looking to actually shift careers, and it would still be really meaningful if you just wanted to serve for one year before returning to your current life. A few things to know-- in my experience, the AmeriCorps I served with were all really young (fresh out of college), which might be strange for you in your 30's, but there were also plenty of older folks working for the organization. Also, just be aware that your living stipend AND the education award you are given are both subject to taxation (lots of people didn't realize that the ed award was taxed). Although it doesn't sound like your motivation is financial here.

[Monkey Uncle]

You should be aware that the republicans are proposing to do away with AmeriCorps (a threat they make every time they get into power).  I presume they wouldn't fire members who've already started their service year, but it's possible there might not be any future service years.  Something to pay attention to, at least.

As MoseyingAlong notes, you really need to research the organization that hosts the position.  That's who you'd actually be working for, so you want to be sure you click with their culture.

[sdfsdfsf]

Hi Wetblanket,

Jaketucson told me about your post and suggested I throw in my $.02 about my AmeriCorps experiences.

I completed my AmeriCorps term in 1999 after graduating college. I served as a surrogate parent doing a full-time, live-in position, taking care of at-risk adolescents. Then from 2004 - 2007 I managed a different AmeriCorps program for about 50 AmeriCorps members who completed service at 30 sites in the areas of literacy/education, social services, and environmental protection.

Here are three reflections on what it is like being an AmeriCorps member:

1) AmeriCorps provides the opportunity to create positive and life lasting changes in other peoples' lives.  You will create lifelong memories and new relationships, both with those you serve and those you collaborate with.  Most of these relationships will be with people outside of your regular circle, which will in turn, expose you to new ways of thinking and approaching life.

2) You will experience professional development and personal growth. You will be stretched in new ways that will translate into new transferable skills. There will be teamwork challenges, not enough resources, your patience will be tested, and your assumptions will be called into question. This will be a life shaping experience.

3) Finally, no matter how much you give of yourself, you always get more back in return.  There are many sacrifices to becoming an AmeriCorps member, however, if you have the opportunity to serve in this capacity, I am sure you will find it to be truly rewarding.

Oh yes, there is the small living stipend and education award you will get as well. These financial benefits are nice but now seem quite small when compared to the other life changing benefits mentioned above.

All the best with your decision!

[Lentils4Lunch]

Thank you, isipwater, for that thoughtful response!