Literacy* AmeriCorps New Orleans

Literacy*AmeriCorps is a National Direct program managed by Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council who promotes and strengthens literacy coalitions as they create literacy communities, thereby enhancing the quality of the lives of individuals and the vitality of our society. They partner locally with the Literacy Alliance of Greater New Orleans to have the program in New Orleans.

Literacy*AmeriCorps New Orleans members are adults of all ages and backgrounds who have a passion for volunteer service and education. Members believe in education's power in helping individuals and communities to overcome social ills. Members trust in their own ability to serve and in the magic of one person making a difference.

(Above from left to right members Esther Alexis, Jennie Merrill, Barcardi Green, Domonique Dickerson, Glenn Day and Jan Jugran jump for joy at the prospect of starting the new service year!)

This commitment includes serving whole-heartedly, keeping students as the top priority throughout the year, and completing a minimum number of service hours. Full-time members complete at least 1725 hours in one year; half time members complete at minimum of 925 hours in one year. In addition, all members participate in at least one monthly service project (although full time members are encourage to participate in two of these events monthly) and attend at least one unity event per month (again full time members are encourage to attend at least two of these events per month). Commitment to a year of AmeriCorps service is not without its sacrifices: Financial sacrifice adds stress for many members, and the experience can be a very intense year of growth. Overall, a year served in Literacy*AmeriCorps New Orleans is a truly amazing experience that yields many lasting benefits!

Before the year of service begins, a member is placed at a service site of his/her choice. Members spend at least at least 80% of their service hours at their service site by teaching and tutoring students, managing community volunteers, and serving at outreach events for their service site.

AmeriCorps members also serve as a group within the member Corps. Members are encouraged to form a solid support group within the Corps. This support provides encouragement with fellow members and has resulted in lasting friendships. Members collaborate on engineering community service projects and serving on AmeriCorps committees. Members also participate in monthly trainings and unity events. This time spent away from the service site consists of roughly 20% of service hours.