AmeriCorps funds now available

Grants designed to improve, strengthen Illinois communities

[September 14, 2013]  SPRINGFIELD -- The Illinois Department of Human Services and the Serve Illinois Commission announced this week that funding is available for agencies interested in administering AmeriCorps programs in the state. AmeriCorps members serve their communities by improving education and health care, protecting public safety, safeguarding the environment, providing disaster relief, and promoting civic engagement.

"AmeriCorps is an excellent opportunity for people to commit their time and talents and give something back to their communities," said Brandon Bodor, executive director of the Serve Illinois Commission. "Illinois has a strong tradition of supporting national service programs, and AmeriCorps members make a real and lasting difference in the communities in which they serve."

The Serve Illinois Commission, part of the Department of Human Services and the governor's office, administers the AmeriCorps state programs in Illinois and is charged with enhancing and supporting community volunteerism. Serve Illinois is funded by the federal Corporation for National and Community Service and currently supports nearly 30 AmeriCorps programs throughout the state.

Serve Illinois will host mandatory meetings for interested parties in Belleville, Chicago, Dixon and Springfield. Proposals are due by Nov. 22. Funded programs will begin their work in July 2014. Meeting details and information about the application process are available at www.serve.illinois.gov.

AmeriCorps members dedicate a year to helping communities meet their unmet human service, education, public safety or environmental needs. They receive a modest living allowance, student loan deferment and training. Full-time members are also eligible to receive health insurance. Members who successfully complete their service receive an educational award of up to $5,645 to help pay for college, graduate school, vocational training or to pay off student loans.

For more information about AmeriCorps or Serve Illinois, visit www.serve.illinois.gov or call 800-592-9896. The website is a valuable resource for Illinoisans seeking information about volunteer agencies, trainings, nonprofit resources and national service programs, including AmeriCorps. The website includes a user-friendly volunteer matching portal where people can search for a volunteer opportunity in their area.

[Text from Illinois Department of Human Services file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]