AmeriCorps: Can anybody tell me what exactly it is AmeriCorps does?

Question

I tried to gain a basic understanding from the website, but it's still a little vague. Is it like the Salvation Army?

Answer 1

They get a government check once a month.  I know some who spend the day sitting in senior citzen centers and Head Start centers.  I know of one group that spent time picking up trash along a creek.

Preety much just a government payout program for liberal young people who don't really want to get a real job.

Answer 2

The AmeriCorps volunteers that I have seen worked in inner city schools tutoring students.  Americorps members are placed where they are needed most.

Some examples:

Tutoring and mentoring disadvantaged youth

Fighting illiteracy

Improving health services

Building affordable housing

Teaching computer skills

Cleaning parks and streams

Managing or operating after-school programs

Helping communities respond to disasters

Building organizational capacity

Yes full time members can qualify for a tuition award to pay for school or to repay qualified student loans.