AmeriCorps

AmeriCorps is a national service program that provides thousands of Americans of all ages and backgrounds with educational awards in exchange for a year or two of community service. AmeriCorps members help meet the nation's critical needs in the areas of public safety, education, human needs, and the environment. It was created in 1993 with bi-partisan support by Congress, the President, and community groups nationwide.

Visit the AmeriCorps website for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What do AmeriCorps volunteers do in Philadelphia?

    Read about Construction Assistant volunteers.

  2. Where do Habitat Philadelphia AmeriCorps members live?

    Habitat Philadelphia does not provide free housing for its AmeriCorps volunteers. However, we do offer assistance in finding housing options in the city. Many of our members choose to find roommates or lodging through the following sources (and more):

  3. What is the commitment of a Habitat Philadelphia AmeriCorps member?

    Members in the 11 month program start their service each August and must complete 1700 hours and complete other program requirements that include trainings that occur outside of Philadelphia.

    Click here to see AmeriCorps Member Agreement

  4. What are the requirements for a Habitat Philadelphia AmeriCorps member?

    • must be a United States citizen, a national, or a legal permanent resident
    • must be 18 years of age or older
    • must have obtained a High school diploma or a GED

  5. What are the benefits for a Habitat Philadelphia AmeriCorps member?

    • Living allowance of $10,600 paid over 46 ½ weeks
    • 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
    • AmeriCorps service gear (AmeriCorps t-shirt, sweatshirt)
    • Delight in doing work that benefits a community and its families

  6. How do I apply to become a Habitat Philadelphia AmeriCorps member?

    Habitat Philadelphia partners with other Habitat affiliates in the area for our AmeriCorps program as part of Delaware Valley Habitat for Humanity. These other affiliates are Habitat for Humanity of Chester County, Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County, and Habitat for Humanity of Metro Camden. You can apply to any of our affiliates directly via AmeriCorps web site and learn more about the program.

    • Apply online for the Habitat Philadelphia affiliate at the Americorps website at https://recruit.cns.gov/quicksearchform.asp. Click on Service Area: Housing. Click on State: Pennsylvania. Type "Habitat" in the Keyword Search section. Click on SEARCH. Click on the box next to "Delaware Valley Habitat for Humanity". Click on "Show Details." We are accepting applications to all sites now!
    • If you have other questions or need a paper application, contact Shelly Halloran at Habitat Philadelphia.