Who We Are

AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs that engage more than 50,000 Americans each year in intensive service to meet critical needs in education, public safety, health, and the environment. AmeriCorps members serve through more than 2,100 nonprofits, public agencies, and faith-based organizations. They tutor and mentor youth, build affordable housing, teach computer skills, clean parks and streams, run after-school programs, and help communities respond to disasters.

Overview

Since 1994, more than 250,000 men and women have served in AmeriCorps, providing needed assistance to milliions of Americans. AmeriCorps provides trained, dedicated people to help nonprofits accomplish more and make more effective use of volunteers.

AmeriCorps is made up of three programs:

1. AmeriCorps*State and National

More than three-quarters of AmeriCorps grant funding goes to Governor-appointed State Commissions, which in turn distribute and monitor grants to local non-profits and agencies. The other quarter goes to national nonprofits that operate in more than one state. The organizations recieving grants are responsible for recruiting, selecting, and supervising AmeriCorps members. AmeriCorps grantees include national groups like Habitat for Humanity, the American Red Cross, and Boys and Girls Clubs, as well as many small faith-based and community organizations.

2. AmeriCorps*VISTA

For more than 35 years, AmeriCorps*VISTA members have been helping bring individuals and communities out of poverty. Members serve full-time for a year in nonprofits, public agencies and faith-based groups throughout the country, working to fight illiteracy, improve health services, create businesses, increase housing opportunities, or bridge the digital divide.

3. AmeriCorps*NCCC

AmeriCorps*NCCC is a 10-month, full-time residential program for men and women between the ages of 18 and 24. AmeriCorps*NCCC combines the best practices of civilian service with the best aspects of military service, including leadership and team building. Members serve in teams of 10 to 15 members. Teams are based at one of five campuses across the country but are sent to work on short-term projects in neighboring states.