Two Ways To Apply

AmeriCorps programs are designed to address specific issues, and to achieve measurable objectives. Member activities must not duplicate the work of existing staff. Programs fall into one of four different categories: Education, Environment, Human Needs, Public Safety.

Any not for profit organization, local or state government, school district, or institution of higher education may sponsor an AmeriCorps program.

The AmeriCorps* State program provides Federal funds for living allowances and program administration. Sponsoring organizations are required to provide a one-third match, and should have sufficient capacity to operate personnel and accounting systems, comply with Federal grant provisions, and respond to Federal reporting requirements. Federal funds can be used to hire additional staff, but Sponsors should nonetheless be prepared to absorb some program responsibilities into its own systems. Programs designed to engage about 20 members, with a Federal budget of about $216,000, seem to strike the best balance between efficiency and economy.

The AmeriCorps Education Award Program provides only a small amount of Federal monies for administrative purposes ($500 per member). However, it also frees Sponsors from match requirements. Members may still receive a living allowance, but it is up to the Sponsor to determine the source and amounts of those funds. Education Award programs are particularly well suited to work study and Welfare reform initiatives.

Sponsoring AmeriCorps has been described as "a mission, not a program." Organizations must be extremely committed to AmeriCorps, and willing to dedicate staff towards its administration. AmeriCorps challenges its members to stretch themselves and grow as human beings. It also challenges its sponsoring organizations to move beyond status quo and find new ways of effectively serving their communities.

The AmeriCorps application process has two phases - concept paper and full proposal.

Concept papers are taken each Winter usually in January. The concept paper is intended to be a short, precise document that informs the Commission what activities AmeriCorps members would engage in and how those activities will better the community. It will also outline very specific, quantitative objectives the sponsor proposes to use to measure the success of its AmeriCorps project. Finally, the concept paper will summarize the budget proposed by the sponsor, with particular attention paid to any required local match monies.

After a thorough review by commissioners and service peers, successful applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal that will parallel the concept paper while providing greater detail. As with the concept papers, the proposals will also undergo a Commission review prior to approval.

Programs selected for AmeriCorps funding will begin in the fall of each year.