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When should I apply?
It is best to apply in the middle to late spring. All of our yearlong positions begin in August and September.
Is there an age limit?
The minimum age requirement for AmeriCorps is 17 years old, and for VISTA the minimum age is 18 years old. Some positions require applicants to be 21 or older. There is no upper age limit.
What skills do I need to have?
For all positions, your motivation and commitment is the primary requirement. Some positions have specific skill requests in certain areas, or a few years of related volunteer/job experience. In addition on-going training is provided by the VISTA and AmeriCorps Program Coordinators and site sponsors.
Do I get paid?
Members receive a modest living allowance of between $850 - 963 per month. AmeriCorps members who complete a term of service also receive an education award of $4,725 and non-private student loans qualify for forbearance during the service term.
Do I need to provide my own transportation?
We provide bus tickets and mileage reimbursement for service-related travel.
Is housing provided?
No. However, once accepted for a position we provide a housing assistance packet put together by our 2nd year members that outlines how to find housing in the Seattle area on a limited AmeriCorps budget. We also have a housing listserve that allows new Members to communicate with each other to find roommates, read available housing postings, and discuss housing needs.
How flexible are the hours?
The positions are all full-time, 40 hours per week. Service hours vary depending on the needs of the site, but generally are Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm. Occasionally there are evening, weekend, and overnight requirements for retreats and service projects. Although the hours requirement is strictly adhered to in order to allow the member to finish their service year in the allotted time, all members are allowed approximately 2 weeks of personal days for vacation and sick leave.
Can I take classes or hold another job while serving?
Due to the full-time nature of the positions, Members have found it to be very difficult to commit to a 2nd job or take classes. However, with the permission of the Program Coordinator and Site Supervisor, AmeriCorps Members may hold another job or take classes outside of the pre-determined service hours and requirements. VISTA members are, however, limited to 3 academic credits per quarter and are not permitted to hold another job.
Are there part-time positions available?
All of our positions are designed as full-time. However, periodically there are a few openings for part-year positions that begin in January. It is best to check with us in November if you are interested in finding out about any available part-year opportunities.
How many years may I participate?
You may serve up to 3 terms of service and receive up to 2 education awards. For those who have already served 1 term as an AmeriCorps, VISTA, or Peace Corps volunteer, you may apply for a Leader position. Contact us to receive a Leader position description and application details.
What is "Life After AmeriCorps"?
Solid Ground sponsors a Life After AmeriCorps event during the service year focused on finding employment and education opportunities upon graduation from the program.