AmeriCorps

AmeriCorps is a network of national service programs that each take a different approach to improving lives and fostering civic engagement. Members address critical community needs like increasing academic achievement, mentoring youth, sustaining national parks, preparing for disasters, and more.

As one branch of AmeriCorps programs, AmeriCorps VISTA members build capacity in nonprofit organizations and public agencies with the mission to alleviate poverty. You can apply to serve as a 12-month VISTA member, or a ten-week Summer Associate, in any of the 50 U.S. States or U.S. territories. Visit americorps.gov to find out more.

The University of Montana will provide $1000 matches to AmeriCorps alums using the Education Awards, not to exceed the cost of tuition the student is paying. The $1,000.00 match may not be combined with any other UM Scholarship.

For details, please contact the UM Scholarship Team in the Financial Aid Office to inquire about the AmeriCorps match via email, phone (406-243-5373), or stop by the Financial Aid Office front desk in person (5th floor Aber Hall).

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Choose the type of service that’s right for you.

  • AmeriCorps NCCC: Members strengthen communities and develop leadership skills through direct, team-based service. Teams of young adults, age 18-24, travel across the country to complete projects that meet crucial community needs. FEMA Corps members complete projects specifically designed by FEMA to support disaster preparedness and response.
  • AmeriCorps State and National: Members engage in a diverse range of service projects at local, regional, and national organizations to address critical community needs of disaster services, economic opportunity, education, healthy futures, environmental stewardship, and veterans and military families.
  • AmeriCorps – VISTA: Members go where the need is greatest: to communities facing poverty, inequity, and unemployment. VISTA members serve in a professional setting building partnerships, writing grants, and organizing volunteers. Above all, VISTA members are catalysts for change, working to advance local solutions.

Process

The process to apply to AmeriCorps VISTA is straightforward. Use this list to understand the main steps. Keep in mind the program you apply to may have more specific steps along the way – check their website or position listing(s) to find out more.

Steps to Apply

  • Create a profile on my.americorps.gov
  • Search for AmeriCorps VISTA opportunities that are of interest to you at my.americorps.gov
  • Once you find the AmeriCorps VISTA project for you, submit an application.
  • If selected by the project, you’ll be contacted for an interview.
  • If selected for the position, attend training and begin your year of service

Additional Resources

Check out these tools to guide you through the VISTA application process:

Check out member stories from around the country!

Having a hard time imagining what your AmeriCorps experience might look like? Learn about what others did during their service, and how it has impacted their lives. Visit the AmeriStories site to learn more!

An NCCC member works with plants in a greenhouse
AmeriCorps VISTA pose at a project site
AmeriCorps VISTA members discuss their project

Want to read about current AmeriCorps service in Montana?

Logo for the Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement

Check out the member blog posts from the Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement to learn what current AmeriCorps members are doing to make a difference in Montana communities.

A group of AmeriCorps members sit around a meeting table, talking

Graduating Soon?

Consider a year of service with AmeriCorps VISTA

As you think about options after graduation, check out this short two-minute video about a year of service with AmeriCorps VISTA.

Quick VISTA Intro for Graduating Students (University of Montana)