Americorps VIP

AmeriCorps Volunteer Infrastructure Project (VIP) focuses on building and strengthening volunteer infrastructure, including devising systems for recruiting, training, and recognizing volunteers. Our partner sites enjoy all the benefits of program participation and the full-time service of a dedicated AmeriCorps member.

VIP is designed for nonprofits, schools and government agencies looking to increase their capacity to serve the community through volunteerism.

VIP Program Goals

1. Build the agency’s volunteer capacity by providing capacity building services in the areas of volunteer recruitment and management, enabling partners to increase volunteer capacity.
2. Recruit and retain agency volunteers by recruiting and generating an average of 120 volunteers per Partner Site (generally 80 one-time & 40 long-term, however, sites will create goals appropriate for the agency). Each Partner Site will set their own volunteer recruitment goal to meet agency needs.
3. Increase resources for the agency’s volunteer program by raising $2,000 in cash or in-kind donations through the establishment of at least 2 business partnerships for every partner site. Donations must directly benefit the volunteer program.
4. Develop the professional skills of all AmeriCorps members through training and real-life work experience, so that they improve overall on performance evaluations by at least 20%.

Next Steps!

To learn more about how to host an AmeriCorps member at your organization, email Laura Gilbert ([email protected]).

AmeriCorps VIP is a purpose-driven service opportunity designed to empower VIP Fellows through experience, training, and service. Fellows focus on building and strengthening volunteer infrastructure, recruitment and recognition of volunteers, and creating community partnerships. Each VIP Fellow dedicates their service to a single Partner Site, working “behind the scenes” to enable volunteers to take part in meaningful service positions that meet community needs.

The Commitment

Service terms constitute an 11-month, full-time commitment (1700 total hours), beginning in September each year. AmeriCorps is not a job, it is a national service opportunity. VIP Fellows receive a modest living stipend, health insurance, are eligible for subsidized childcare, and qualify for student loan deferments. AmeriCorps State members that successfully complete a 1,700-hour service term will be eligible to receive a $6,495 Segal AmeriCorps Education Award and $3,505 California For All Education Award. Housing is not provided.

The Perks

VIP Fellows bring a diverse amount of experience and skills to their placement organizations. In addition, Fellows will complete a Volunteer Management Certificate through Points of Light, the world’s largest organization dedicated to volunteer service. Other development opportunities include working in a professional setting, understanding the nonprofit sector, personal and professional networking, and more.

Service Year Timeline

April – August: Fellow Application is open, interviews, placement of VIP Fellows
August: All Fellows are confirmed for enrollment
September: Service Term begins
July: Service term ends

Next Steps!

To learn more about how to become an AmeriCorps Member, email Laura Gilbert ([email protected]) or visit this How to Apply Page.