What to expect
Who can serve?
AmeriCorps programs are open to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. AmeriCorps Seniors highlights the opportunities available to individuals 55 and older who want to make giving back their second act.
How can I serve?
Through our programs, we offer opportunities with different time commitments and requirements, meaning you can serve in whatever capacity works for your goals and lifestyle.
How do I apply?
To begin the process of applying for our programs, visit the Join page.
The benefits of serving
Living allowance
Receive a modest living allowance to cover basic expenses during your service term.
Money for college and trade school
The Segal AmeriCorps Education Award is offered to individuals who complete a term of service and can be used to pay for a range of educational expenses, like repaying qualified student loans or future tuition payments. You can earn up to two full Education Awards with multiple service terms.
Loan deferment and interest forbearance
Individuals in approved AmeriCorps positions are eligible for forbearance for most federally-guaranteed student loans. In addition, interest payments that accrue during service may be eligible for repayment by AmeriCorps.
Professional development
Jump-start your career and gain transferable skills employers value including leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. Once you complete your service, leverage the Employers of National Service network, which connects you with hundreds of employers from the private, public, and nonprofit sectors who are committed to hiring alumni.
Alumni network
Join a network of like-minded leaders who are passionate about improving communities. AmeriCorps alumni receive access to special benefits and resources. For example, many colleges and universities match the Education Award and offer additional AmeriCorps scholarships.
We make an impact by focusing on these key areas
Education
Our members and volunteers support students in nearly 12,000 public, private, and charter schools across the country. Through our work we improve attendance and engagement, increase high-school graduation rates and expand college enrollment.
Economic opportunity
Our programs serve as a pathway to employment opportunities and help develop vital work skills. We build and rehabilitate affordable housing, provide financial literacy training, and connect people to jobs.
Disaster repsonse
When disaster strikes, we repair homes, assist survivors, and help restore communities when it matters most. We have deployed thousands of members and volunteers to areas affected by hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and tornadoes.
Environmental stewardship
We serve on projects that cover thousands of acres of public lands across America – including many with the National Park Service. We help conserve natural habitats, protect clean air and water, and reduce utility bills by improving home energy efficiency.
Healthy futures
We provide independent living services to 365,000 elderly Americans. We also build the capacity of food banks, combat the opioid crisis, tackle homelessness, and address food insecurity.
Veterans & military families
We provide assistance to nearly 500,000 veterans and military families by connecting them to education opportunities, jobs, and the benefits they have earned. Many veterans also volunteer with us so they can continue to serve their country.
Every AmeriCorps experience tells a story.
"I joined AmeriCorps because others helped me and I wanted to do the same."
Segal AmeriCorps Education Award
$4B
in education awards earned by AmeriCorps members to pay for college
$1M+
education awards paid annually to historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs)
Things you should know
Extending your award’s use period
You must use the Education Award within a seven year period. In special cases, an alumnus can extend the use period for the Education Award, limitations apply.
Transfer your award
Education Awards can be transferred from alumni to family members under specific conditions. Read more about how to transfer your Education Award.
Tax implications
All payments made using the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award are subject to federal tax in the year each payment is made.
AmeriCorps Seniors
Make giving back your second act by becoming an AmeriCorps Seniors volunteer.
Find your right fit
Discover the opportunity that best suits your interests, availability and experience.