Frequently Asked Questions
What is AmeriCorps?
What is CalSERVES?
What services does the program provide?
What is a typical day like?
What are AmeriCorps Roles and Responsibilities?
What is our Service Philosophy?
What positions are available, and are they all full-time?
Does CalSERVES Provide Housing?
Do I Need A Car?
Can I join if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Can I defer student loans during my service with AmeriCorps?
Will I get any training before I start?
How do I apply?
What is AmeriCorps?
AmeriCorps is a national service program, often called the “Domestic Peace Corps.” AmeriCorps provides opportunities for members to give back to the community and gain valuable skills in return.
What is CalSERVES?
Based at the Napa County Office of Education, CalSERVES is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children and families through a spectrum of exceptional programs. From early in the morning until late in the evening, our one-on-one tutoring, after school mentoring, and evening family programs are serving the needs of children and their families. We match caring adults with children in need of extra support and guidance, provide our mentors with a comprehensive training program and on-site coaching, and coordinate with our school and university partners to create outstanding learning environments for all of our participants.
Back to top
What services does the program provide?
Reading Support Services
The program provides one-on-one mentoring and crucial literacy support to students in eight Santa Rosa schools. AmeriCorps mentors plan and implement thoughtful, engaging lessons in reading and writing for K-8 grade students who are below grade level. All mentors work with each student, 4 days a week, 40 minutes per day, building wonderful relationships and having a significant impact on their students’ success.
After School Services
After School programs provides academic and enrichment support to 1st-8th grade students in eight Santa Rosa schools. Teachers identify children for the program based on their academic need. AmeriCorps mentors in the program work with a mentor teacher to develop lessons and lead activities for student groups. Children move through a series of lessons throughout the day, including reading groups, homework club, and math stations. There are also enrichment days, which include thematic projects, service learning activities, and a variety of clubs.
Family Services
Family services involve evening family literacy opportunities that engage children and adults. AmeriCorps mentors develop lessons and lead activities for school age student groups, while parents attend classes in ESL, GED, parenting, and literacy. Children move through a series of engaging and supportive lessons throughout the evening, which include literacy, math, enrichment, and homework clubs.
Back to top
What is a typical day like?
Most AmeriCorps mentors will take part in a range of youth service activities through each of our programs. Mentors will start their day by tutoring students one-on-one in reading. In the afternoon hours, they will be placed in classrooms co-leading activities in the after school program. Some mentors may serve in evening family literacy programs supporting group enrichment and reading activities. AmeriCorps mentors have the support of trained staff and supervisors at each school site. Time will be set aside for planning lessons and preparing for students, as well as for on-going training and professional development. Each mentor will be matched up with a teacher from the school and will spend time helping out and observing in his/her classroom.
Back to top
What are AmeriCorps Roles and Responsibilities?
AmeriCorps members with CalSERVES are role models, mentors and guides for the children we serve. Their responsibilities include using the established curricula provided, developing lesson plans, leading meaningful and engaging activities, making good use of planning time individually and with the team, participating actively in training and service days, and at all times fostering a safe, happy and effective learning environment for the students in the program. To be successful, mentors must be open to learning and applying new ideas, willing to challenge themselves, and committed to the positive development of all our students.
What is our Service Philosophy?
- AmeriCorps is much more than a job—it is a service opportunity where AmeriCorps members are able to meet the needs of the community by “Getting Things Done.”
- Consistency is extremely important in the lives of children, which makes it vitally important that AmeriCorps members working with CalSERVES remain committed to their term of service.
- AmeriCorps members must have a strong desire to work in the community and make a difference in the lives of children.
Back to top
What positions are available, and are they all full-time?
Full-time and half-time mentor opportunities are available, along with full-time Leader positions. The time commitment varies, from ten to eleven months, depending upon your position. All are wonderful ways to make a difference in the lives of children and gain valuable experience while giving back to your community!
Back to top
Does CalSERVES Provide Housing?
AmeriCorps members are responsible for finding their own housing, however CalSERVES provides a list of housing resources to search from. Staff and current members are also available to consult with regarding the area. Members have opportunities to connect with other members who may also be looking for housing.
Back to top
Do I Need A Car?
Because public transportation is limited, we strongly encourage applicants to have a vehicle during their term of service.
Back to top
Can I join if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
You must be a U.S. citizen, national, or legal permanent resident alien of the U.S. to be an AmeriCorps member.
Back to top
Can I defer student loans during my service with AmeriCorps?
You may qualify for postponement, or forbearance, of the repayment of your loans during your service. The education award will help you pay off qualified student loans when you're finished.
Back to top
Will I get any training before I start?
Absolutely. All members receive training at the beginning of their service, as well ongoing training and professional development throughout their term of service.
Back to top
How do I apply?
The process for applying to our mentor positions includes a written application, two references, and an interview. Applications may either be completed on-line or using the paper application.
