Sitting in my apartment one chilly February day, I did not quite know what I was looking for, but I knew I needed a change.

AmeriCorps: Strengthening Communities, Strengthening Yourself

I hopped on the computer, and before I knew it I was on the AmeriCorps website, clicking links to see which programs were available in different states. Many of my family members and friends have been part of AmeriCorps and they have always shared such wonderful stories of the memories they made and the friendships they formed.

Accepting a volunteer position with AmeriCorps is similar to accepting a position for a regular job, except technically you are a volunteer. You receive a monthly stipend if selected and you interview with a supervisor from the national organization. If things go well you will be granted a second interview with an on-site supervisor.

Interviews are nerve-racking in general, but I think when you are a wheelchair user there is an added element of nervousness. You only get one shot to make a good first impression. In any case, it is difficult for the person interviewing to get a full picture of one’s capabilities from the words on a piece of paper.

While interviews are not typically set up in a way that there is an open dialogue. I knew going into the first interview that if the opportunity presented itself, I wanted to be able to have one with the individual conducting the interview. I was successful and landed a second interview with the on-site supervisor. Again, I wanted to have as much of open dialogue as possible. The second interview helped determine if I would be a good fit for the campus and if logistically, I could navigate its accessibility accommodations in order to complete the tasks necessary to successfully fulfill the requirements needed.

At the beginning of every AmeriCorps term of service, there are training days where members learn about the organization. Members begin to learn the tools they will use to get to know the students they will be working with throughout the year. These tools serve as a great way for students to role play and to get to know each other. No one quite understands the experience that you are going through like other members so they quickly become your friends and the people you lean on.

A term of service with AmeriCorps typically lasts 10 to 11 months, depending on your program. Every month, all members gather for training on different topics. These topics are geared toward the specific population that the members work with, providing them with tools that will benefit the students they are mentoring. These tools help team members learn and grow during their time of service and far beyond the students’ school year.
In addition to mentoring and tutoring, the AmeriCorps member also plays an important role in bridging the gap between teacher and student, helping everyone on that team better understand the student’s individual needs when appropriate. Outside of school hours, the AmeriCorps member also has the opportunity to participate or lead in after-school activities of their own when given permission. During the service period, members participate in service days out in the community. In addition to giving back, this also serves as an opportunity to become familiar with other organizations in the area.

Now I fully understand why people who have had the opportunity to be part of AmeriCorps speak of their time with such fondness. You are truly left with wonderful memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

First And Foremost

Self-care was an important topic that was brought up during one of the very early training’s and was the topic that was discussed very often because in general, people do not practice it enough. It means care provided for you, by you. It’s about identifying your own needs and taking steps to meet them. It is taking the time to do some of the activities that you enjoy, that will help you decompress. Self-care is about being mindful of your lifestyle and treating yourself as kindly as you treat others.

Communities In Schools: A Safe Place For All Students

Communities In Schools is an organization with various sites throughout the United States. Their mission is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.
After some research, I came across Communities In Schools of Central Texas. Their mission statement was one that resonated with me the first time I read it. I did not know just how much of an impact it would have on me throughout my two years as a member, and even today.

AmeriCorps members are given a caseload of students that you will be working with throughout the year. Students are seen for at least one hour once a week for mentoring and/or tutoring. However, it is so much more than just mentoring in tutoring. You need to be able to really get to know the student that you are working with, learn about their likes and dislikes, the things that they may struggle with academically or socially, and how you can empower them to thrive.
We were able to do various projects together both individually and in groups based on what this students may enjoy, or different ways that they can learn new skills that they may not otherwise be exposed to. Anything from arts and crafts to creative science projects or tools to help them calm down an overwhelming situations.

There are times in your life when you are pulled in a certain direction, oftentimes for unknown reasons. I am so glad that I was led to AmeriCorps and Communities In Schools. Being a part of that team and community has given me such a sense of fulfillment and passion.