FAQs
How Do I Apply to Serve as an AmeriCorps Member? If you are interested in joining AmeriCorps, please review the website for more information on our unique program. If you are ready to serve simply complete the application, click here https://goo.gl/forms/ZcGNjN6cRiTNZEaF3. You will need to complete an application, submit a resume, cover letter, and two references. An interview will be set up with selected candidates. If you are a great fit for the program, you will receive a conditional offer based on availability of funding and service sites. Your selection into phase II of the process means you are one step closer to becoming a JRF AmeriCorps member. In phase II, you will be able to meet with site supervisors to learn more about the service sites. Members will have the option to select their top two choices for placement however it is ultimately the decision of the site supervisor program where members will be placed.
What are The Requirements to Become an AmeriCorps Member? To be eligible for AmeriCorps a participant must be at least 17 years of age and individuals must be citizens or lawful permanent residents with the appropriate documentation Birth certificates, driver’s licenses, and passports are examples of documents that confirm a member is old enough to serve. In some cases, the same document, such as a birth certificate issued by one of the states, can be used to confirm both age and citizenship.
What Does a AmeriCorps Member do? An AmeriCorps member engages in public service work with a goal of "helping others and meeting critical needs in the community." AmeriCorps is a civil society program supported by the U.S. federal government, foundations, corporations, and other donors.
Can I Apply With a Criminal Background? Yes, you’re able to apply with a criminal background. Under The Serve America Act (SAA), all grantees must conduct National Service Criminal History checks on participants and program employees in AmeriCorps. Candidates convicted for murder, arisen or any sex crime cannot apply.
What are the Various Terms of Service? You have the choice of choosing to serve as a part-time or a full-time member. Although a member may serve up to four terms of service in AmeriCorps State and National programs, regardless of the type of the terms however, a member may only serve two terms with the JRF.
Do I Get Paid? Yes members do get paid, full-time and part-time AmeriCorps members will receive a modest living allowance for their service. Our members living allowance is compensation for their hard work and dedication.
When Can I use My Education Award? After successfully completing your AmeriCorps term of service, you are eligible to receive a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award. You can use your education award to repay qualified student loans and to pay certain educational expenses costs at eligible institutions of higher education and training programs. You may use your education award to repay qualified student loans, to pay for current education expenses, or for both purposes. You can access the entire award or part of it until the total amount has been used or the award expires. You must use your award within seven years of completing your term of service.
Can I Turn My Education Award into Cash? No, the education award is not a cash voucher. For general questions about the Education Award and student loan deferment, contact National Service Trust at 1-800-942-2677. If you have successfully completed your AmeriCorps service, you can view your AmeriCorps Education Award account balance and activity online https://my.americorps.gov/mp/login.do.
Do AmeriCorps Provide Health Care? Yes AmeriCorps do provide health care, if you're a full-time member you'll be eligible for health care.
What is the JRF AmeriCorps Program? The JRF AmeriCorps program is one of the most competitive programs in the state. Each year our members serve to reduce food insecurity, improve financial literacy and develop Emerging Leaders.
Can't find the answer to your question? Feel free to contact us,
Email: Tawayna.Bailey@jrfnj.org or Call: 732-324-2114 ext. 120
