Volunteer »
AmeriCorps

AMERICORPS

What is AmeriCorps?
AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs created in 1993 that engages more than 50,000 Americans each year in service in our communities. HabiJax is one of over 41 Habitat AmeriCorps sites around the country. Yearly, HabiJax has 10 or more AmeriCorps members that help us build high quality, affordable homes for families in need in Jacksonville. Each year we hire an AmeriCorps team that is dedicated to making a difference and is willing to commit 11 months of service to HabiJax.  Our AmeriCorps members are an integral part of the Jacksonville affiliate and we are very proud of all they accomplish!

What do National Direct AmeriCorps members do in Jacksonville?

National Direct AmeriCorps members perform direct service and help utilize volunteers effectively. We receive AmeriCorps members through Habitat for Humanity International. National Direct AmeriCorps members serve full-time for about 11 months starting each September. Interviewing and selection occur in the Spring and Summer. We have filled all of our National Direct positions for 2009-10.  Thank you for your interest, and please check Habitat.org for more National Direct opportunities at other affiliates!

What is AmeriCorps VISTA and what do members do?
AmeriCorps VISTA members help set the stage for future projects and serve full-time for a year.  AmeriCorps VISTA members have assisted with family services, fundraising, at the ReStore and also with a computer access program. Once we select a member, a start date is typically confirmed within a couple of months.

What is my commitment?
Members in the 11-month National Direct program start their service in early September and must complete 1,700 hours as well as other program requirements including training that occurs outside Jacksonville. Members in the AmeriCorps VISTA program serve a full year. There are various start dates to the program depending on when we approved for a particular position.

What are the requirements to apply?

The Habitat for Humanity AmeriCorps program is open to all individuals who meet the following qualifications:

• By the beginning of the service year be 18 years of age and older (to meet Habitat requirements).
• Be a U.S. citizen, a U.S. national or a lawful permanent resident alien of the U.S.
• Have a high school diploma or GED or agree to obtain one while serving.  

We always have more applications than positions, so the process can be somewhat competitive. Strong candidates will possess several of the following characteristics:

• Some college or the equivalent work experience.
• A sincere desire to serve combined with an understanding of why one wishes to serve.
• Past history of service participation with Habitat or other non-profits.
• Leadership experience and ability.
• Good communication skills.
• Ability to and interest in working with a team.  
• Patience and flexibility.

What do the benefits include?

• Skills for the future.
• Living allowance.
• Health insurance and workers compensation insurance (or equivalent).
• Child care, if eligible.
• Education award of $4,725. The education awards are paid as vouchers by the National Service Trust, and may be redeemed within seven years to pay for current education costs at qualified colleges, universities, other post-secondary institutions and approved school-to-work programs, or to pay back qualified student loans already incurred.  
• Forbearance of qualified student loans and payment of interest that accrues during the term of service.
• HabiJax also provides free housing to members!

How do I apply for the National Direct positions or receive more information?

Each year, we begin accepting applications in March and start interviewing in May and June. The start date is usually late August/early September. Please choose one of the following options:
• Send a cover letter and resume, noting the position you are interested in, to Stephanie Ransom at [ sransom@habijax.org ].
• Once Habitat International has been fully approved by the Corporation for National Service, you will be able to apply online for the next AmeriCorps year. Go to www.americorps.gov and select "Housing" as your interest and "FL" as your state to find our listing.  
• If you have other questions, contact Stephanie Ransom at 904.208.6676 or at [ sransom@habijax.org ].