A fresh alum at the time of recording, Catherine served with the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse in the Bay Area — a harm reduction organization doing life-saving work distributing Naloxone and fentanyl test strips to communities facing the overdose crisis. She brought her tech background to modernize the organization's website and expand its reach, translating it into multiple languages so more people could access resources.
But the moment that defined her year? Hearing back that a friend used the Naloxone training she provided — and someone came home because of it.

Catherine's story is about showing up even when you keep hearing "no." It's about finding out that your lived experience isn't a liability — it's your greatest asset. And it's about the quiet, radical act of seeing every person as human.

"We need to find the humanity in all people — not just people like us." — Catherine Hicks
#StillGettingThingsDone
_______________________________________
 🤝 This episode is part of a special series produced in partnership with 250&Beyond: Our American Story and our partners:

The National Museum and Center for Service — A national organization developing a truly national museum and center dedicated to honoring and inspiring service in ALL its forms.

Independent Sector — The only national membership organization that brings together a diverse community of changemakers, nonprofits, foundations, and corporations working to strengthen civil society and ensure all people in the United States thrive.

WETA — Founded in 1961, WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation's capital, serving their community with educational, cultural, news, and public affairs programs and services. 
________________________________________
AmeriCorps Connections lifts up real stories of AmeriCorps alumni — 100+ featured! Honest, unfiltered truth about national service. These alums aren't just reflecting — they're still getting things done! We believe these voices deserve to be heard, and we're just getting started!

Laura Swier Kotelman served in AmeriCorps NCCC in 2001 — a year that turned out to be unlike any other. From mold remediation in Louisiana to the Special Olympics World Games in Alaska, Laura's service year opened doors she never expected and built skills she still uses every day.

Now based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota — the only state without a service commission, a fact she's working to change — Laura volunteers by hosting international teaching interns in her home through her kids' Spanish immersion school. Her insight is quietly profound: you see your own community differently when you share it with someone experiencing it for the first time.

Community isn't always a formal event. Sometimes it's gathering people around a table — wherever that table happens to be.

#StillGettingThingsDone
_______________________________________
 🤝 This episode is part of a special series produced in partnership with 250&Beyond: Our American Story and our partners:

The National Museum and Center for Service — A national organization developing a truly national museum and center dedicated to honoring and inspiring service in ALL its forms.

Independent Sector — The only national membership organization that brings together a diverse community of changemakers, nonprofits, foundations, and corporations working to strengthen civil society and ensure all people in the United States thrive.

WETA — Founded in 1961, WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation's capital, serving their community with educational, cultural, news, and public affairs programs and services. 
________________________________________
AmeriCorps Connections lifts up real stories of AmeriCorps alumni — 100+ featured! Honest, unfiltered truth about national service. These alums aren't just reflecting — they're still getting things done! We believe these voices deserve to be heard, and we're just getting started!

Libby McClayton did two years as an AmeriCorps VISTA with the Office of the Mayor in Baltimore, then a third year as a State National member with Children's Hunger Alliance in Dayton, Ohio. The through line? Food. And she's still at it.

Now on the board of the AmeriCorps Alum DC Chapter — one of the only 501(c)(3) alumni chapters in the country — Libby helps galvanize service-minded folks across the DMV. From packing thousands of Thanksgiving food boxes at the University of the District of Columbia to leading career fairs for the next generation of public servants, she's proof that the skills you build in service — rolling with chaos, pivoting, getting it done — travel with you for life.

Libby also shares her philosophy on working alongside communities rather than swooping in to fix them. Active listening, curiosity, humility — and ditching the superhero cape. 🦸
#StillGettingThingsDone
_______________________________________
 🤝 This episode is part of a special series produced in partnership with 250&Beyond: Our American Story and our partners:

The National Museum and Center for Service — A national organization developing a truly national museum and center dedicated to honoring and inspiring service in ALL its forms.

Independent Sector — The only national membership organization that brings together a diverse community of changemakers, nonprofits, foundations, and corporations working to strengthen civil society and ensure all people in the United States thrive.

WETA — Founded in 1961, WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation's capital, serving their community with educational, cultural, news, and public affairs programs and services. 
________________________________________
AmeriCorps Connections lifts up real stories of AmeriCorps alumni — 100+ featured! Honest, unfiltered truth about national service. These alums aren't just reflecting — they're still getting things done! We believe these voices deserve to be heard, and we're just getting started!

David shares what happens when a group of guarded, "snarky veterans" spend a day on a private gun range together. By the end? They're swapping stories, laughing, competing — and opening up in ways they haven't in years. It's mental health support that doesn't feel like mental health support.

The most powerful moment: watching a veteran "graduate" from the program and say I want to give back now too. The ripple effect is real.

"It's okay not to be okay. But we have to make sure we're doing things to guide us toward the lighter side." — David Konkler

#StillGettingThingsDone
_______________________________________
 🤝 This episode is part of a special series produced in partnership with 250&Beyond: Our American Story and our partners:

The National Museum and Center for Service — A national organization developing a truly national museum and center dedicated to honoring and inspiring service in ALL its forms.

Independent Sector — The only national membership organization that brings together a diverse community of changemakers, nonprofits, foundations, and corporations working to strengthen civil society and ensure all people in the United States thrive.

WETA — Founded in 1961, WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation's capital, serving their community with educational, cultural, news, and public affairs programs and services. 
________________________________________
AmeriCorps Connections lifts up real stories of AmeriCorps alumni — 100+ featured! Honest, unfiltered truth about national service. These alums aren't just reflecting — they're still getting things done! We believe these voices deserve to be heard, and we're just getting started!

Najla Munshower served in the AmeriCorps Veteran Leader Corps in 2012-2013 as the spouse of an active duty service member in Washington State. What she built there — coordination programs for veterans in transition — became part of the framework for the USO Pathfinder Transitions Program, which is still running today.

Since then, she's moved through Europe, North Carolina, and now Indiana. And everywhere she goes, she finds people who need what she knows: how to navigate VA benefits, how to support military families, how to help someone who doesn't know help is available ask for it.

One story stands out: a volunteer food bank run she helped organize that eventually led to an on-base food pantry for lower-enlisted families who couldn't always afford groceries. The quiet, invisible needs that nobody talks about — that's where Najla shows up.

"AmeriCorps afforded me the ability to not just enter into community with intent — but to grow the community." — Najla Munshower
#StillGettingThingsDone
_______________________________________
 🤝 This episode is part of a special series produced in partnership with 250&Beyond: Our American Story and our partners:

The National Museum and Center for Service — A national organization developing a truly national museum and center dedicated to honoring and inspiring service in ALL its forms.

Independent Sector — The only national membership organization that brings together a diverse community of changemakers, nonprofits, foundations, and corporations working to strengthen civil society and ensure all people in the United States thrive.

WETA — Founded in 1961, WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation's capital, serving their community with educational, cultural, news, and public affairs programs and services. 
________________________________________
AmeriCorps Connections lifts up real stories of AmeriCorps alumni — 100+ featured! Honest, unfiltered truth about national service. These alums aren't just reflecting — they're still getting things done! We believe these voices deserve to be heard, and we're just getting started!

A veteran and AmeriCorps VETCO alum, Shawn is the founder and CEO of Nine Line Veteran Services — built from the ground up over 15 years. His service year in Washington State sparked everything: grant writing, community coordination, housing support, and one-on-one conversations with veterans navigating some of the hardest moments of their lives.
Now Shawn chairs the Greater Pierce County Continuum of Care under HUD's homeless initiatives, volunteers at community events with his family, and advocates loudly for veterans to use the benefits they've earned. His challenge to fellow vets: if you don't use them, they disappear — and your hesitation is the same hesitation your fellow service member has. Use them. For your family. For the next one.

His service philosophy is simple and loud: be a voice for the voiceless. Civic engagement IS community service. And it takes people who've been on the ground to make legislators understand what policy actually looks like in real life.

"Selfless, targeted service through kindness and community — that's a labor of love." — Shawn Durnen

#StillGettingThingsDone
_______________________________________
 🤝 This episode is part of a special series produced in partnership with 250&Beyond: Our American Story and our partners:

The National Museum and Center for Service — A national organization developing a truly national museum and center dedicated to honoring and inspiring service in ALL its forms.

Independent Sector — The only national membership organization that brings together a diverse community of changemakers, nonprofits, foundations, and corporations working to strengthen civil society and ensure all people in the United States thrive.

WETA — Founded in 1961, WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation's capital, serving their community with educational, cultural, news, and public affairs programs and services. 
________________________________________
AmeriCorps Connections lifts up real stories of AmeriCorps alumni — 100+ featured! Honest, unfiltered truth about national service. These alums aren't just reflecting — they're still getting things done! We believe these voices deserve to be heard, and we're just getting started!

Step 1: Show up.
Step 2: Do what you can with what you have.
Step 3: Be ready to leave.

From AmeriCorps NCCC building Habitat for Humanity homes in Montana, to disaster relief after California's Camp Fire, to trail restoration in Iowa, to Boys and Girls Club work in Utah — Alex has served across more communities than most people visit in a lifetime. Each time, he brought those three steps with him.

Now settled in Minnesota and just starting to volunteer at his local youth center, Alex reflects on what it means to build community as a newcomer — and how showing up to serve is the fastest way to feel like you belong somewhere.

His closing thought: Tikkun Olam.
Repair the world. Leave it better than you found it. Ask the community what "better" looks like — then do what you can. Happy Earth Day!  🌍🌎🌏
#StillGettingThingsDone
_______________________________________
 🤝 This episode is part of a special series produced in partnership with 250&Beyond: Our American Story and our partners:

The National Museum and Center for Service — A national organization developing a truly national museum and center dedicated to honoring and inspiring service in ALL its forms.

Independent Sector — The only national membership organization that brings together a diverse community of changemakers, nonprofits, foundations, and corporations working to strengthen civil society and ensure all people in the United States thrive.

WETA — Founded in 1961, WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation's capital, serving their community with educational, cultural, news, and public affairs programs and services. 
________________________________________
AmeriCorps Connections lifts up real stories of AmeriCorps alumni — 100+ featured! Honest, unfiltered truth about national service. These alums aren't just reflecting — they're still getting things done! We believe these voices deserve to be heard, and we're just getting started!

Rok Locksley has been living in an Airstream with his family for four years, traveling all 48 states — and everywhere he lands, he brings community with him. Sparked by his AmeriCorps service in Macomb, Illinois (yes, the birthplace of Monopoly — and that story gets wild), Rok now runs volunteer game design sessions across the country, helping people bring their ideas to life through play.

From park programming to Kickstarter-funded games, Rok makes the case that games aren't just fun — they're how communities build real connections. And it all started with a service year that gave him the spark.

Oh, and we get into the untold history of Monopoly — turns out it was designed as a cooperative game to show the pitfalls of unchecked capitalism. Sound familiar? 🎲
#StillGettingThingsDone
_______________________________________
 🤝 This episode is part of a special series produced in partnership with 250&Beyond: Our American Story and our partners:

The National Museum and Center for Service — A national organization developing a truly national museum and center dedicated to honoring and inspiring service in ALL its forms.

Independent Sector — The only national membership organization that brings together a diverse community of changemakers, nonprofits, foundations, and corporations working to strengthen civil society and ensure all people in the United States thrive.

WETA — Founded in 1961, WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation's capital, serving their community with educational, cultural, news, and public affairs programs and services. 
________________________________________
AmeriCorps Connections lifts up real stories of AmeriCorps alumni — 100+ featured! Honest, unfiltered truth about national service. These alums aren't just reflecting — they're still getting things done! We believe these voices deserve to be heard, and we're just getting started!

Today Shelbie works as a philanthropy officer at Reset 180, a nonprofit supporting women leaving human trafficking situations — and she's still going back to Eastern Kentucky at least once a year to serve.

Her message is simple but powerful: you don't need an official name tag to volunteer. Helping a neighbor, sharing a skill, showing up — that's the spirit of service. And it doesn't have to be grand to matter.

"You don't have to be an AmeriCorps member to embody the pledge." — Shelbie Simmons
#StillGettingThingsDone
_______________________________________
 🤝 This episode is part of a special series produced in partnership with 250&Beyond: Our American Story and our partners:

The National Museum and Center for Service — A national organization developing a truly national museum and center dedicated to honoring and inspiring service in ALL its forms.

Independent Sector — The only national membership organization that brings together a diverse community of changemakers, nonprofits, foundations, and corporations working to strengthen civil society and ensure all people in the United States thrive.

WETA — Founded in 1961, WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation's capital, serving their community with educational, cultural, news, and public affairs programs and services. 
________________________________________
AmeriCorps Connections lifts up real stories of AmeriCorps alumni — 100+ featured! Honest, unfiltered truth about national service. These alums aren't just reflecting — they're still getting things done! We believe these voices deserve to be heard, and we're just getting started!

Based in the Pocono Mountains and working as communications coordinator for her local Meals on Wheels, Shayna talks about what it really looks like to grow a life of service from a single volunteer coordinator role. From career fairs to Girl Scout events to statewide forums on youth civic engagement — she's building the pipeline, one conversation at a time.

Her big idea: service is an "open definition." You don't need a formal structure. Knock on your neighbor's door. Walk a kid to school. Share a skill. Show up. Self-activation is a superpower.

For Gen Z and younger — feeling like the world is too big to change? Shayna's got something to say about that. 👊
"You never know where volunteerism is going to take you." — Shayna Canty
#StillGettingThingsDone

_______________________________________
 🤝 This episode is part of a special series produced in partnership with 250&Beyond: Our American Story and our partners:

The National Museum and Center for Service — A national organization developing a truly national museum and center dedicated to honoring and inspiring service in ALL its forms.

Independent Sector — The only national membership organization that brings together a diverse community of changemakers, nonprofits, foundations, and corporations working to strengthen civil society and ensure all people in the United States thrive.

WETA — Founded in 1961, WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation's capital, serving their community with educational, cultural, news, and public affairs programs and services. 
________________________________________
AmeriCorps Connections lifts up real stories of AmeriCorps alumni — 100+ featured! Honest, unfiltered truth about national service. These alums aren't just reflecting — they're still getting things done! We believe these voices deserve to be heard, and we're just getting started!

In this special edition of AmeriCorps Connections — part of our 250&Beyond: Our American Story series — Addie shares what brought her from Connecticut to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and why she never left. From coat drives and AIDS runs with City Year to teaching jazz guitar to kids in her community, Addie's service has taken a lot of shapes. But the throughline is the same: show up for people, share what you have, and look for the helpers.

Addie opens up about a raw moment during a 12-hour MLK Day of Service — flat on the floor of an empty school, exhausted and questioning the point — and how one act of service from a colleague changed everything. She also reflects on identity, belonging, and what happens when people who've been told to distrust each other end up serving side by side.
This one is a mic drop moment. 🎤
#StillGettingThingsDone
________________________________________
🤝 This episode is part of a special series produced in partnership with 250&Beyond: Our American Story and our partners:

The National Museum and Center for Service — A national organization developing a truly national museum and center dedicated to honoring and inspiring service in ALL its forms.

Independent Sector — The only national membership organization that brings together a diverse community of changemakers, nonprofits, foundations, and corporations working to strengthen civil society and ensure all people in the United States thrive.

WETA — Founded in 1961, WETA is the leading public broadcasting station in the nation's capital, serving their community with educational, cultural, news, and public affairs programs and services. 
________________________________________
AmeriCorps Connections lifts up real stories of AmeriCorps alumni — 100+ featured! Honest, unfiltered truth about national service. These alums aren't just reflecting — they're still getting things done! We believe these voices deserve to be heard, and we're just getting started!

👉We are NOT a political podcast. But when a US Senate candidate shows up who is also an AmeriCorps alum, Peace Corps volunteer, AND a Fulbright Scholar — we open that door WIDE! 🚪

Christopher Beardsley is a Wilmington, Delaware native who has served from Rwanda to South Africa and back home to Delaware — and now he's running for US Senate because, surprise surprise, all roads lead back to service!
In this episode, Christopher gets real about growing up working class and discovering a whole world of public service opportunities he never knew existed. He shares what Peace Corps taught him about his own superpowers, why he jumped straight into AmeriCorps with Public Allies after being evacuated from South Africa during COVID, and what national service has to do with his vision for Delaware.

This one is special
🎙️ AmeriCorps Connections lifts up the real, unfiltered stories of AmeriCorps alumni — 100+ featured and counting! These alums aren't just reflecting on their service years — they're still getting things done!
🔗 Learn more about Christopher Beardsley and his campaign

⚠️ Disclaimer: AmeriCorps Connections is a podcast dedicated to lifting up the voices of national service alumni. This episode is not an endorsement of any candidate or political campaign. We are here for the service — always!
🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode!
#AmeriCorps #NationalService #PeaceCorps #Fulbright #PublicAllies #Delaware #USSenate #ServiceYear #AmeriCorpsAlumni #GetThingsDone

She gets real about the financial sacrifice of national service, the hard truth about building projects that don't outlast you, and why she made the unconventional choice to stay in her service community after her year ended.

Plus — what a community grocery store, a food desert, and MacKenzie Scott all have in common.

🎧 This one's for the alums, the curious, and anyone who's ever wondered if a service year is worth it.

📝 Rate, review and share - help keep these service stories alive.
🎥Watch on YouTube @AmeriCorpsConnections

• Join States for Service
  
  
• Americas Service Commissions - National Service Advocacy Academy

• Share your AmeriCorps story: nicki@americorpsconnections.com

"AmeriCorps just gave me purpose. It gave me perspective. It gave me passion." - Alex Schwartz (eps. 94)

This special AmeriCorps Week 2026 Compilation is a love letter to the 1.3 million AmeriCorps alums who have shown up — for their communities, for each other, and for this country.

From tutoring students and fighting for national service in the south, to seniors serving post-career and young leaders finding their footing — these are the voices, stories, and testimonies of people who chose to serve. And in doing so, changed everything — including themselves.

🔥 IN THIS COMPILATION YOU'LL HEAR:

Why national service alumni are speaking up and fighting back -,we continue to serve.
How ONE year of service can shape a lifetime of leadership
The real, unfiltered impact AmeriCorps has had on careers, communities, and lives
Why 1.3 million alums need to keep telling their stories — NOW more than ever

💡 IF THIS MOVES YOU — HERE'S WHAT TO DO NEXT:
✅ LIKE this video to help more people find these stories
✅ SUBSCRIBE to the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast on YouTube
✅ EXPLORE our full catalog of interviews — there is a story here for every alum, advocate, and champion of national service
✅ SHARE with a fellow alum, a colleague, or anyone who needs to be reminded why service matters
✅ COMMENT BELOW — tell us how YOUR service year shaped you 👇

🎧 LISTEN ON YOUR FAVORITE PODCAST PLATFORM: https://americorpsconnect.transistor.fm/
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeart Radio | Amazon Music 
📺 WATCH THE FULL CATALOG:
youtube.com/@americorpsconnections

The AmeriCorps Connections Podcast — where service stories live on.
One year of service. A lifetime of leadership. 🎙️✨

After growing up in a community center staffed by AmeriCorps members, she intentionally chose to serve as an AmeriCorps VISTA with Horton’s Kids in Washington, DC. From there, she became a Segal Fellow at AmeriCorps headquarters, rotating across departments and even deploying for national disaster response.

Her journey continued through Service Year Alliance, the Do Good Institute at the University of Maryland, and into tech consulting — where she now builds software for federal agencies and global nonprofits, including Peace Corps.

In this episode, we explore:

• How service builds lifelong adaptability
 • Translating nonprofit skills into for-profit spaces
 • The Segal Fellowship experience
 • Why alumni networks matter
 • The growing AmeriCorps Alums DC Chapter
 • What 1.3 million alums could accomplish together

Resources mentioned in this episode:
Application for DC Board Alumni Board

DC chapter website -

other chapters can connect through

Do Good Institute – University of Maryland
https://dogood.umd.edu

The Eli J. & Phyllis N. Segal Citizen Leadership Program

Luis shares how his City Year experience helped cement his identity as a community member, leader, and advocate, and how national service became the foundation for a career in higher education, civic engagement, and student leadership. From mentoring students at his alma mater to now serving as Deputy Director of the Center for Social Concern at Johns Hopkins University, Luis reflects on the long-term ripple effects of service.

This conversation explores:

• Serving in your hometown—and what that means for identity and belonging
• The professional and leadership development built into AmeriCorps service
• Trust-building, relationship-centered service, and showing up with humility
• Why national service matters for workforce development and democracy
• How service plants seeds that continue to grow long after the year ends

🎧 Whether you’re a current AmeriCorps or City Year member, an alum, or someone considering a year of service, this episode is a powerful reminder that the service ends—but the mission doesn’t.

In this powerful and deeply human episode of the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast, host Nicki Fiocco sits down with Alex Schwartz, an AmeriCorps alum whose journey spans nearly every corner of national service: AmeriCorps NCCC, State & National, VISTA — and now AmeriCorps staff.

Alex shares the story that changed everything — a single moment during disaster recovery after the Camp Fire in California, when helping a survivor receive two pairs of donated pants revealed the true impact of service. From building homes in Montana, responding to wildfires in California and Maui, restoring prairies in Minnesota, and strengthening disaster preparedness with the Red Cross, Alex reflects on how
AmeriCorps gave him purpose, perspective, passion, and community.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:
 • How AmeriCorps helps people and the people who help people
• Why service changes how you see the world — and yourself
• The power of disaster response and community resilience
• How AmeriCorps service can shape a lifelong career and calling
• Why we can’t afford to lose national service

If you’ve ever wondered what AmeriCorps really looks like in action — or how service can become a way of life — this episode is for you.

📝 Rate, review and share - help keep these service stories alive.
🎥Watch on YouTube @AmeriCorpsConnections

• Join States for Service
  
  
• Americas Service Commissions - National Service Advocacy Academy

• Share your AmeriCorps story: nicki@americorpsconnections.com

In this powerful episode of the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast, host Nicki Fiocco sits down with Sarah, an AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP Program Manager in Minnesota, and Carolyn, a 73-year-old AmeriCorps Seniors volunteer whose life—and community—has been transformed through service.

Together, they share an inspiring, real-life look at how AmeriCorps Seniors programs are tackling some of today’s most urgent challenges:
✔️ social isolation and loneliness
✔️ fall prevention and healthy aging
✔️ rural access to community-based services
✔️ purpose and belonging after retirement

Carolyn’s journey—from a longtime university executive assistant to a dynamic volunteer leader running packed exercise classes twice a week—shows what happens when experience, courage, and community come together. Through the RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) and the evidence-based Stay Active and Independent for Life (SAIL) program, she and her fellow volunteers are helping older adults stay strong, connected, and independent—while finding deep fulfillment themselves.

Sarah pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build sustainable, data-driven AmeriCorps Seniors programs, and why investing in older adults as leaders isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

This episode is a reminder that:
✨ service doesn’t end with retirement
✨ aging is not about slowing down—it’s about staying engaged
✨ AmeriCorps Seniors is building bridges across generations

If you care about national service, healthy aging, community connection, or the future of AmeriCorps, this conversation will move you—and might just inspire your next chapter. AmeriCorps runs the risk of being cut by the Federal Government!!!! Get involved! 

👉 Subscribe, share, and help keep these stories of service alive.
Because the service may end—but the mission doesn’t

💡 Learn More / Get Involved:
👉 Join States for Service
👉 Americas Service Commissions - National Service Advocacy Academy

👉 Listen to more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@americorpsconnections/playlists

📬 Interested in sharing your AmeriCorps story?
Email Nicki Fiocco at nicki@americorpsconnections.com

#AmeriCorps #NationalService #StatesForService #AmeriCorpsAlumni #ServiceLeadership #GetThingsDone

Zach shares how a gray AmeriCorps sweatshirt from his mom and a youth sports program at Notre Dame first planted the seed of service, long before he knew what NCCC was. From planting willows and building beaver dam analogs in a national forest, to counting unhoused neighbors in North Las Vegas, to supporting fire recovery and hearing stories straight out of what felt like a movie — Zach unpacks how he realized he’d lived one of the biggest years of his life.

Today, Zach is “Mr. Zach” in a kindergarten classroom, bringing NCCC virtues like perseverance, responsibility, and compassion into a school that centers social-emotional learning and a “private school with a public mission.” He talks about being a male educator of color, the power of simply seeing people — whether they’re kids in the hallway or neighbors on the street — and why it’s okay to change your mind about what service means to you.

Whether you’re considering national service, still processing your own AmeriCorps year, or wondering how to keep serving long after your term ends, this conversation is a soulful reminder that service doesn’t stop when the program ends — it just changes shape.

• Join States for Service
  
  
• Americas Service Commissions - National Service Advocacy Academy

• Share your AmeriCorps story: nicki@americorpsconnections.com

Episode 91: National Service Advocacy & the Power of AmeriCorps — with Phil Kolling

In this episode, Nicki Fiocco talks with Phil Kolling, Executive Director of Serve Vermont, about the enduring impact of national service — from AmeriCorps VISTA and NCCC to the state commissions ensuring these programs thrive locally.
Phil reflects on his own AmeriCorps journey, disaster response lessons, and why the National Service Advocacy Academy and States for
Service are critical for preserving the legacy of AmeriCorps.
🎧 Listen to learn how you can become an advocate for national service and join a community of changemakers working to keep AmeriCorps strong.

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

• Join States for Service
  
  
• Americas Service Commissions - National Service Advocacy Academy

• Share your AmeriCorps story: nicki@americorpsconnections.com

#AmeriCorps #NationalService #Advocacy #ServeVermont #StatesForService #GetThingsDone

In this special episode, host Nicki Fiocco kicks off the AmeriCorps Seniors Voices Series — celebrating those who continue to serve after their professional careers have ended. Today’s guest, Gina Ottrando of Staten Island, New York, shares how she found renewed purpose through AmeriCorps Seniors and her service with Meals on Wheels, Project Hospitality, and SCORE.

Gina’s story shines a light on what it means to give back, stay engaged, and use a lifetime of skills to strengthen communities. After a 37-year career in a Fortune 100 company, she now dedicates her time to mentoring small business owners through SCORE, supporting local food pantries, and helping neighbors in need.

💡 About AmeriCorps Seniors
AmeriCorps Seniors is part of the AmeriCorps federal agency, engaging adults ages 55+ in service that strengthens communities and fosters connections across generations.
Each year, more than 170,000 AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers contribute over 40 million hours of service through three main programs

🌟 Points of Light Recognition

Gina was honored as a Points of Light Award recipient (No. # 7987), recognizing her exceptional volunteer service. The Daily Point of Light Award, established by President George H.W. Bush, celebrates individuals making meaningful contributions to their communities through volunteerism.
https://www.pointsoflight.org/awards/empowering-the-staten-island-community-through-multifaceted-volunteerism/

He also opens up about the influence of his biggest supporter—his mom—who first introduced him to AmeriCorps and set him on a path of service, leadership, and purpose.

If you believe in the power of service to transform lives and communities, you’ll love this conversation.

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to help us keep lifting up AmeriCorps voices!

What happens when a confused college student searching for direction finds herself in the room where AmeriCorps was first unveiled? For Denise Fowler, that moment changed everything.
In this powerful conversation, Denise reflects on her journey as one of the very first AmeriCorps VISTA members in 1994, serving at the Denver, Indian Center. From helping build mentoring programs and stepping in to run a computer literacy center overnight, to witnessing the daily struggles of families just trying to make ends meet, Denise shares the transformational experiences that shaped her career and her commitment to service.

💡 Denise reminds us that AmeriCorps is more than a service year—it’s a launchpad for careers rooted in purpose, leadership, and getting things done.
If you’re an AmeriCorps alum, a current member, or simply someone who believes in the power of service, this episode will leave you inspired to keep finding your piece of it.

👉 Learn more about  Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration (TSPPPA) https://tspppa.gwu.edu/

📢 TAKE ACTION: Use the Voices for National Service tool (linked below) to contact your Member of Congress and urge them to fund AmeriCorps.
📞 https://voicesforservice.org/take-action/contact-congress/
📣 Share your story using #AmeriCorpsConnections

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and share!

📌 This episode is part of our 2025 Recruitment Series. BayAC is currently recruiting AmeriCorps members to serve youth in San Francisco and the East Bay!
👉 Learn more: https://www.bayac.org/
In this deeply inspiring episode of the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast, host Nicki Fiocco sits down with Sneha Gandhi—Bay Area Youth Agency Consortium (BAYAC) alum, educator, and empowerment coach. Sneha shares her transformative AmeriCorps journey, how her “Hidden Superheroes” classroom changed lives, and why now—more than ever—we need to speak up for national service.

🎧 From her service pivot during COVID to her current leadership supporting youth and future AmeriCorps members, Sneha reminds us: “If you still have a story, then the journey’s not over—it’s just beginning.”

📢 TAKE ACTION: Use the Voices for National Service tool (linked below) to contact your Member of Congress and urge them to fund AmeriCorps.📞 https://voicesforservice.org/take-action/contact-congress/
📣 Share your story using #americorpsconnections 
🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and share!
🔗 Subscribe, share, and stay connected—because service doesn’t stop when the term ends.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast, host Nicki Fiocco sits down with Jordan Snipes—a dynamic South Carolina native whose national service journey took him from youth commissioner to two-term AmeriCorps College Advising Corps member, and now, to graduate school and national board leadership.

From working with high school students across South Carolina to joining the America’s Service Commissions Board, Jordan shares what it means to serve with purpose, the challenges facing AmeriCorps today, and what comes next for a generation rising through uncertainty.

🌱 “We are the vessels,” Jordan reminds us. And in a time of national service cuts and political unrest, his words offer both grounding and hope.

📢 TAKE ACTION: Use the Voices for National Service tool (linked below) to contact your Member of Congress and urge them to fund AmeriCorps.
📞Contact your Congress person - Vocies4Service Tool 
📣 Share your story using #AmeriCorpsConnections
🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and share!

Alex emphasizes the importance of organizing and raising voices to support AmeriCorps, highlighting his own efforts and passion for public service.

Read Alex's published Letters to the Editors in support of AmeriCorps:
Capital Gazette
New York Times

If you’ve ever been impacted by or curious about national service, this episode is a must-watch.
🎧 Hit Subscribe, share, and join us in supporting the future of AmeriCorps. #AmeriCorpsAlumni #nationalservice  #advocacy  #volunteerism  #publicservice

☎️ Contact your Congress person - Vocies4Service Tool 

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast, host Nicki Fiocco reconnects with Kate Morton, an NCCC alum and fan-favorite from Episode 5 (March 2023). Now a Chief Clinical Officer at Albuquerque Healthcare for the Homeless and a Presidential Leadership Scholar, Kate returns to share how national service continues to shape her life—and how purpose has a way of finding you when you stay open to the signs.

From her early days as a pharmacy technician unsure of her path, to a transformative AmeriCorps year that led her to pharmacy school, Kate reflects on:
💊 Her mission-driven work in public health and addiction treatment
🏥 Building compassionate care systems for people experiencing homelessness
🇺🇸 Being selected for the Presidential Leadership Scholars program
🎨 The healing power of art, community, and dignity in healthcare
🌌 Trusting the universe and embracing the unexpected
✨ This episode is a reminder that service doesn’t end—it evolves.
📍 Listen to Kate’s first episode (Ep. 5): “Reshaping Your Future Through Service”
📌 Learn more about Healthcare for the Homeless
✨ Presidential Leadership Scholars

☎️ Contact your Congress person - Vocies4Service Tool 

On April 22, 2025, AmeriCorps Connections host Nicki Fiocco sat down with national service leaders Maureen Eccleston (Service Year Alliance) and Chad Driscoll (America’s Service Commissions) to discuss the unfolding threat to AmeriCorps programs across the country—including the demobilization of NCCC teams and the administrative leave of 85% of AmeriCorps agency staff.

💡 This episode breaks down:
What’s really happening inside the AmeriCorps agency
How we’re mobilizing to protect AmeriCorps programs
What YOU can do—today—to make your voice heard

🎯 Take Action Now
✍🏽 Share Your AmeriCorps Story: Submit your story to Service Year Alliance
📝 Register for the Letter to the Editor Workshop Wednesday, April 23 at 6:00 pm ET : Sign up here
📬 Email Your Members of Congress: Use this quick tool from Voices for National Service
💥 Amplify Online: Share your story and tag @AmeriCorpsAlums @ServiceYear @Voices4Service

💬 “There are 1.3 million AmeriCorps alumni. That’s a powerful voice. Let’s use it.” – Nicki Fiocco

Join us as J.R. shares his personal journey—starting from his passion for storytelling and education, traversing through his work in higher education, and culminating in his current role as Executive Director of the Facing Project. Discover how AmeriCorps instilled in him a lifelong commitment to community service, the transformative power of storytelling, and why staying true to your passion matters at every life stage. Tune in for inspiring stories, actionable insights, and a celebration of the enduring impact of service.

🙂The Facing Project

🎧 Don't forget to subscribe, comment below, and join us in celebrating the power of service. #AmeriCorpsAlumni #NationalService #Storytelling #CommunityEngagement #CareerGrowth

➡️00:00 Discovering AmeriCorps: A Journey Begins
➡️00:59 The AmeriCorps Experience: Building a Statewide Program
➡️01:51 Connecting Through Stories: The Power of Narrative
➡️03:28 Welcome to the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
➡️05:01 Introducing JR Jameson: A Career Rooted in Service
➡️06:45 From AmeriCorps Member to Executive Director
➡️09:01 Challenges and Triumphs in Literacy Programs
➡️13:39 The Impact of Service: Personal Reflections
➡️16:37 Navigating Career Paths Post-AmeriCorps
➡️21:24 Leadership and Imposter Syndrome
➡️24:54 Expanding AmeriCorps Programs: STEM and Beyond
➡️27:26 Reflecting on Special Collaborations
➡️27:56 The Impact of Kelsey Timmerman's Book
➡️29:29 Connecting with the Community
➡️30:45 Addressing Poverty Through Storytelling
➡️35:22 Launching the Facing Project
➡️36:20 Transitioning to Full-Time Leadership
➡️40:48 The Power of Storytelling
➡️47:59 Exciting New Projects and Future Plans
➡️51:01 Advice for AmeriCorps Alumni

🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝
Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

{supporters} 

Sarah shares how a single year of service shaped her future—from house-parenting at Girls Hope, to launching a global employee volunteer program at PIMCO, to starting her own consultancy, Mission Up. We explore the real-world impact of volunteering, the need to rebrand service as essential—not just "nice," and the importance of building networks and translating service into career momentum.

✨ Plus, Sarah shares exciting details about a hands-on workshop for service-year alums and early career professionals happening May 10th in Orange County!

📢 If you’ve ever wondered how a service year can catapult your personal and professional growth, this episode is for you.
 🎧 Hit Subscribe, comment below, and join us in celebrating the power of service.

👉 Learn more about Sarah at: https://www.missionup.co
💼 Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn: Sarah Vagley Middleton
🗓️ Want to join the May 10th workshop? Reach out for details!
 
#AmeriCorpsAlumni #NationalService #SocialImpact #Volunteerism #CareerGrowth
 

🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝
Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

{supporters} 

We talk about:
🤝Life in NCCC: From 10-person crews to living in church basements
🤝Lessons in leadership as a team leader and unit leader
🤝His shift from direct service to systemic change
🤝The bold proposal he’s working on: A 21st-century GI Bill for civilian service
🤝Why service builds empathy, resilience, and national unity

Don’t forget to subscribe—60% of viewers haven’t, and we need your help getting these inspiring stories out into the world. 💙

🔗 Connect with Griff on LinkedIn
📖 Read his law review article

🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations!
#americorps #americorpsalumni  #nationalservice  #podcast  #communityengagement  #CivicLeadership #volunteerism

🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝
Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

{supporters}

🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations!
#americorps #americorpsalumni  #nationalservice  #podcast  #communityengagement  #CivicLeadership #volunteerism

🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝
Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

{supporters}

🌎 From AmeriCorps VISTA to State & National, Dimer’s journey took him from building sustainable farms in Puerto Rico to revitalizing a rural school in Colombia, carrying on his grandfather’s legacy. His story highlights the power of national service, community engagement, and IPSL’s unique global education programs.

💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ How AmeriCorps VISTA and State/National shaped Dimer’s leadership in sustainable farming.
✅ The role of IPSL Global Engagement in supporting his vision to rebuild his childhood school.
✅ The impact of service-learning and international collaboration.
✅ Why investing in communities—both local and global—leads to lasting change.
Learn more about Plenitude 

🎧 Watch now on You Tube and subscribe for more AmeriCorps alumni stories!

Learn how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to lifelong memories, friendships, and personal growth. Discover how the IPSL program offers AmeriCorps alumni the chance to use their Segal Education Award for international service and education. Don't miss Paige's heartfelt tales and practical advice for anyone considering a similar path!

🎓 Why IPSL?
IPSL provides AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alumni with the opportunity to transform their service experience into an international graduate degree focused on social justice, community development, and global impact. Whether you’re looking to continue your education, take your service global, or gain hands-on experience working with international organizations, IPSL offers a flexible, self-directed learning experience that allows you to design your own path.

🙌 Thank You, IPSL Global Engagement!
IPSL supports AmeriCorps alumni in crafting customized, international master's programs focused on service, human rights, education, and global development.
Learn more about 🔗  IPSL and how you can turn your AmeriCorps education award into a global opportunity.

🚀 More Resources for AmeriCorps Alumni:
🔹 Find AmeriCorps Service Opportunities
🔹 Schools of National Service Use Your Education Award 
🔹 Employers of National Service – Find employers who value your service

🎙 Podcast Marketing support by Do Good, Be Good

#AmeriCorps #AmeriCorpsAlumni #PeaceCorps #IPSL #ServiceYear #InternationalDevelopment #Education #GlobalEngagement #DoGoodBeGood #NationalService

🚀 Take Your AmeriCorps Service Global! 🌍
In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast, Zandy shares how she turned her AmeriCorps Segal Education Award into an international learning and service experience with IPSL Global Engagement.
Through IPSL, she traveled to Colombia, Peru, and Guatemala, learning Spanish, public health, and community organizing, all while serving alongside local communities. This is NOT your typical study abroad—IPSL focuses on ethical, community-driven programs that prioritize local leadership and cultural exchange.

🔥 Key Takeaways:
✅ How AmeriCorps alumni can use their education award internationally
✅ The power of immersive learning & service abroad
✅ Why culturally responsive programs matter
✅ How to design your own global service-learning experience

🎧 Watch now on You Tube and subscribe for more AmeriCorps alumni stories!

Learn how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to lifelong memories, friendships, and personal growth. Discover how the IPSL program offers AmeriCorps alumni the chance to use their Segal Education Award for international service and education. Don't miss Paige's heartfelt tales and practical advice for anyone considering a similar path!

🎓 Why IPSL?
IPSL provides AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alumni with the opportunity to transform their service experience into an international graduate degree focused on social justice, community development, and global impact. Whether you’re looking to continue your education, take your service global, or gain hands-on experience working with international organizations, IPSL offers a flexible, self-directed learning experience that allows you to design your own path.

🙌 Thank You, IPSL Global Engagement!
IPSL supports AmeriCorps alumni in crafting customized, international master's programs focused on service, human rights, education, and global development.
Learn more about 🔗  IPSL and how you can turn your AmeriCorps education award into a global opportunity.

🚀 More Resources for AmeriCorps Alumni:
🔹 Find AmeriCorps Service Opportunities - https://americorps.gov/serve/fit-finder
🔹 Schools of National Service – Use Your Education Award - https://americorps.gov/partner/partnerships/schools-national-service
🔹 Employers of National Service – Find Jobs That Value Your Service - https://americorps.gov/partner/partnerships/employers-national-service-search
🎙 Podcast Marketing support by Do Good, Be Good

#AmeriCorps #AmeriCorpsAlumni #PeaceCorps #IPSL #ServiceYear #InternationalDevelopment #Education #GlobalEngagement #DoGoodBeGood #NationalService

Beyond Comfort Zones: Paige Blosberg's AmeriCorps and IPSL Journey
Join us in this AmeriCorps Connections podcast episode where Paige Blosberg shares her enriching experiences with AmeriCorps and the IPSL program. From teaching preschoolers in Duluth to serving and studying in Vietnam, Paige's journey is full of inspiring moments and valuable insights.

Learn how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to lifelong memories, friendships, and personal growth. Discover how the IPSL program offers AmeriCorps alumni the chance to use their Segal Education Award for international service and education. Don't miss Paige's heartfelt tales and practical advice for anyone considering a similar path!

🎓 Why IPSL?
IPSL provides AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alumni with the opportunity to transform their service experience into an international graduate degree focused on social justice, community development, and global impact. Whether you’re looking to continue your education, take your service global, or gain hands-on experience working with international organizations, IPSL offers a flexible, self-directed learning experience that allows you to design your own path.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections
01:22 The Value of Experiences Over Money
01:55 IPSL Global Engagement Sponsorship
02:58 Highlighting IPSL Programs
03:39 Interview with Paige Blosberg
03:48 Discovering AmeriCorps and First Term of Service
04:55 Finding Out About IPSL Opportunity
05:29 Experience in Vietnam
09:00 Insights and Personal Growth
12:10 Support System and Friendships
17:14 Favorite Local Foods in Vietnam
19:16 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Learn more about 🔗  IPSL and how you can turn your AmeriCorps education award into a global opportunity.

🙌 Thank You, IPSL Global Engagement!
IPSL supports AmeriCorps alumni in crafting customized, international master's programs focused on service, human rights, education, and global development.

🚀 More Resources for AmeriCorps Alumni:
🔹 Find AmeriCorps Service Opportunities - https://americorps.gov/serve/fit-finder
🔹 Schools of National Service – Use Your Education Award - https://americorps.gov/partner/partnerships/schools-national-service
🔹 Employers of National Service – Find Jobs That Value Your Service - https://americorps.gov/partner/partnerships/employers-national-service-search
🎙 Podcast Marketing support by Do Good, Be Good

🔔 Like, Subscribe & Follow for More Stories!
📩 Connect with us in the comments—tell us how service has shaped your journey!

#AmeriCorps #AmeriCorpsAlumni #PeaceCorps #IPSL #ServiceYear #InternationalDevelopment #Education #GlobalEngagement #DoGoodBeGood #NationalService

Join us for an inspiring conversation with T. Jamal Lee, an AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alum, as we explore his journey through service and education—culminating in a life-changing experience with IPSL Global Engagement. This episode dives deep into how AmeriCorps and Peace Corps shaped his path, leading to a customized, service-focused graduate program through IPSL.

🎓 Why IPSL?
IPSL provides AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alumni with the opportunity to transform their service experience into an international graduate degree focused on social justice, community development, and global impact. Whether you’re looking to continue your education, take your service global, or gain hands-on experience working with international organizations, IPSL offers a flexible, self-directed learning experience that allows you to design your own path.

In This Episode:
⏳ 00:00 Introduction & AmeriCorps Beginnings
🌎 03:21 Transitioning from AmeriCorps to Peace Corps
🎓 17:03 The IPSL Experience – Graduate School with a Purpose
🌍 25:26 Studying in Peru & the Philippines
🔑 39:16 How IPSL Opens Career Doors
📢 45:44 Advice for AmeriCorps & Peace Corps Alumni
📢 Are you an AmeriCorps alum looking for your next step?

Learn more about 🔗  IPSL and how you can turn your AmeriCorps education award into a global opportunity.

🙌 Thank You, IPSL Global Engagement!
IPSL supports AmeriCorps alumni in crafting customized, international master's programs focused on service, human rights, education, and global development.

🚀 More Resources for AmeriCorps Alumni:
🔹 Find AmeriCorps Service Opportunities - https://americorps.gov/serve/fit-finder
🔹 Schools of National Service – Use Your Education Award - https://americorps.gov/partner/partnerships/schools-national-service
🔹 Employers of National Service – Find Jobs That Value Your Service - https://americorps.gov/partner/partnerships/employers-national-service-search
🎙 Podcast Marketing support by Do Good, Be Good

🔔 Like, Subscribe & Follow for More Stories!
📩 Connect with us in the comments—tell us how service has shaped your journey!

#AmeriCorps #AmeriCorpsAlumni #PeaceCorps #IPSL #ServiceYear #InternationalDevelopment #Education #GlobalEngagement #DoGoodBeGood #NationalService

In this special year-end reflection, the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast looks back at a year of powerful stories, impactful service, and transformative growth. Throughout 2024, we celebrated the voices of AmeriCorps alumni who showcased the profound difference a service year can make in communities and individual lives.

💡 What to Expect in This Episode:
🌟 2024 Recruitment Extravaganza: Highlights from 15 incredible programs and the lives they’ve touched.
🌊 Tackling Root Causes: How AmeriCorps members addressed systemic challenges for sustainable change.
🌱 Personal Growth: Stories of resilience, leadership, and discovering purpose through service.
🤝 Lifelong Connections: The unique and enduring bonds formed during service years.
🎭 Joy in Service: Finding fulfillment in giving back and creating a brighter future.

🌍 Whether you’re an AmeriCorps alum, a current member, or curious about service, this episode is a testament to the power of connection and the lasting impact of serving others.

🎞️ AmeriCorps Connections on You Tube
📌 Follow us on social media: @americorpsconnections IG
👉 Subscribe for more stories of resilience, growth, and impact in 2025!  @americorpsconnections  

#AmeriCorpsConnections #EndOfYearReflection #2024Highlights #NationalService #Podcast #Volunteerism

💡 What to Expect in This Episode:
 🌊 Addressing root causes: Tackling systemic issues for lasting change.
 🌟 Personal transformation: Building resilience and leadership through service.
 🤝 Lifelong connections: Exploring the unique bond of AmeriCorps alumni.
 🎭 Joy in service: Finding fulfillment in making a difference.

✨ Guests Featured:
🔹 Amanda McSwine – AmeriCorps VISTA
🔹 Alex Tran – VISTA & NCCC
🔹 Anton Taylor - City Year
🔹 Shannon Stober – AmeriCorps VISTA
🔹 Jordan Sandman – NCCC team leader 

🎞️ AmeriCorps Connections on You Tube
📌 Follow us on social media: @americorpsconnections IG
👉 Subscribe for more stories of resilience, growth, and impact in 2025!  @americorpsconnections  
#AmeriCorpsConnections #Podcast #NationalService #YearInReview #PersonalGrowth

00:00 Introduction and Early Influences
00:51 AmeriCorps and Peace Corps Experience
01:37 Podcast Announcements and Call to Action
03:02 Interview with Nisa Abdul Sabur Begins
03:21 City Year Journey and Challenges
17:03 Professional Development and Skills Gained
25:26 Transition to Peace Corps
39:16 Reflections on Apartheid and Cultural Shifts
41:09 The Importance of Grace and Understanding
43:11 Peace Corps Experiences and Lessons Learned
45:44 Building Relationships and Community Impact
56:33 Leveraging Peace Corps for Career Success
59:29 Navigating Federal Opportunities and Project Management
01:15:11 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

🔁🔁🔁🔁🔁🔁
United For Impact: AmeriCorps and Peace Corps Forge Strategic Alliance to Mobilize American Volunteers for a Sustainable Tomorrow: https://americorps.gov/newsroom/press-release/united-impact-americorps-peace-corps-forge-strategic-alliance-mobilize

Alumni Connections 🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝

• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

😁Let go of doubt….let go of imposter syndrome…..let go of unworthiness….and embrace courage, curiosity and sprinkle in a little leap of faith.✨

Let the energy of these few days work through you. 💫
Let your VISTA year teach you…..mold you into the person you have the capacity to BECOME
Be curious, be open, be authentic.........find something in yourself that you didn’t know existed
Be Brave because YOU ARE the change the world needs…..you are an innovator and an AmeriCorps VISTA member. 🤝🤝🤝

In this episode of AmeriCorps Connections, we have a fascinating conversation with Antonio Mendez, an AmeriCorps alum who has transitioned from being a Teach for America member to serving as the Country Director for Mexico with the Peace Corps. Join us as Antonio shares his journey, insights, and valuable experiences from his diverse service background. This episode touches on themes of career growth, the impact of national service, and the importance of pushing personal boundaries for greater achievement. Whether you're an AmeriCorps member, a Peace Corps enthusiast, or curious about national service, this episode offers inspiration and actionable advice. Make sure to like, share, and subscribe for more compelling stories of national service.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:27 Guest Introduction: Antonio's Service Journey
02:34 AmeriCorps Experience and Impact
05:47 Transition to Peace Corps
11:34 Challenges and Growth in Peace Corps
18:57 Philosophy and Personal Reflections
23:32 Current Role and Responsibilities in Peace Corps
24:40 Roles and Responsibilities of a Country Director
25:22 Government Relations and International Relations
26:58 Volunteer Impact and Language Learning
31:34 Misconceptions and Opportunities in Peace Corps
36:17 Peace Corps Response and Program Evolution
38:33 Application Process and Health Requirements
39:40 Personal Experiences and Impact Stories
45:20 Final Thoughts and Encouragement to Serve

🔁🔁🔁🔁🔁🔁
United For Impact: AmeriCorps and Peace Corps Forge Strategic Alliance to Mobilize American Volunteers for a Sustainable Tomorrow: https://americorps.gov/newsroom/press-release/united-impact-americorps-peace-corps-forge-strategic-alliance-mobilize

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, hosted by Nicki Fiocco, we explore the inspiring story of Sadie Botin, a dual service member who has served both in AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps. Sadie shares her journey from her AmeriCorps service in a refugee resettlement agency in Iowa to her impactful Peace Corps experience in Eswatini, focusing on community projects, and the strong relationships she built. The discussion also highlights the challenges and emotional resonances of such service, concluding with reflections on the broader impact and personal growth derived from these experiences.

00:00 Welcome to AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
00:22 Introducing the Peace Corps Series
01:09 Support the Podcast on Patreon
01:36 Special Thanks to Sharon Tewksbury Bloom
01:56 Meet Sadie Botin
02:06 What is the Peace Corps?
03:26 Sadie's AmeriCorps Journey
05:55 Challenges and Rewards of AmeriCorps Service
07:52 Reflections on Refugee Resettlement
15:56 Transitioning to Peace Corps
19:32 Applying and Preparing for Peace Corps
26:08 Arriving in Eswatini
31:38 Starting the Journey: Training and Community Assignment
32:06 Building Relationships and Early Challenges
34:48 The Library Project: A Labor of Love
36:09 Personal Reflections on Reading and Education
39:34 The Footbridge Project: Community Collaboration
44:09 Saying Goodbye: Closing Out the Peace Corps Service
48:31 Life After Peace Corps: Career and Education
56:35 AmeriCorps and Alumni Engagement

🔁🔁🔁🔁🔁🔁
United For Impact: AmeriCorps and Peace Corps Forge Strategic Alliance to Mobilize American Volunteers for a Sustainable Tomorrow: https://americorps.gov/newsroom/press-release/united-impact-americorps-peace-corps-forge-strategic-alliance-mobilize

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

In this compelling episode of AmeriCorps Connections, host Nicki Fiocco delves into the inspiring journeys of individuals who have served both in AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps. Joined by Justin Hargesheimer, the episode explores how service in these transformative programs fosters leadership, global empathy, and cultural humility. Justin reflects on stepping out of comfort zones and the skills developed through advocacy and action-oriented service. In a world where virtual volunteering and global connectivity are reshaping how we engage, this conversation highlights the critical role of collaboration and inclusivity in creating meaningful societal impact. From building personal resilience to addressing urgent humanitarian issues, this episode offers insights on how service empowers individuals to become advocates for systemic change, both locally and globally.

If you like this content - please become a Patreon of the Podcast 😁 Get your name/organization as a supporter on every episode! Right now, I am a solopreneur paying for all of the back end tools to create and distribute this content. 😎 

00:00 Introduction to AmeriCorps and Peace Corps
00:50 Welcome to the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
01:19 Meet the Host and the Podcast's Impact
02:38 Introducing the Special Series and Guest
02:56 Justin's Service Journey Begins
04:11 Leveraging AmeriCorps for Education
06:30 Hands-On Experience with Operation Fresh Start
10:00 From AmeriCorps to Habitat for Humanity
12:54 Reflections on the AmeriCorps Experience
16:21 Returning to AmeriCorps as a Team Leader
17:57 AmeriCorps Journey: Year Two
18:26 NCCC Projects and Experiences
21:38 Lessons in Team Management
24:20 Transition to Peace Corps
25:08 Peace Corps Masters International Program
27:55 Serving in Guatemala
28:55 Reflections on Peace Corps Impact
34:58 Empathy and Global Connections
36:23 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

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United For Impact: AmeriCorps and Peace Corps Forge Strategic Alliance to Mobilize American Volunteers for a Sustainable Tomorrow: https://americorps.gov/newsroom/press-release/united-impact-americorps-peace-corps-forge-strategic-alliance-mobilize

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

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Dual Service Journeys: From Peace Corps to AmeriCorps with Thomas Darnell

In this AmeriCorps Connections podcast episode, we explore the dual service journey of Thomas Darnell, an alum of both the Peace Corps and AmeriCorps. Thomas shares his experiences serving in Mali with the Peace Corps, where he faced challenges such as learning new languages and navigating a vastly different culture. He recounts his transition to AmeriCorps, where he worked on STEM projects and robotics in Baltimore, Maryland. Throughout the episode, Thomas reflects on the impactful lessons and skills he gained, the deep connections he forged with communities, and his subsequent role at the Washington State AmeriCorps Commission. The episode underscores the broader theme of service, personal growth, and the interconnectedness of AmeriCorps and Peace Corps programs.

00:00 Introduction to the Special Series
00:09 Meet Thomas Darnell: Dual Service Member
01:13 Understanding Peace Corps vs. AmeriCorps
01:25 Thomas's Peace Corps Journey in Mali
03:43 Challenges and Adaptations in Mali
08:47 Cultural Integration and Community Projects
22:14 Reflections on Peace Corps Experience
27:10 Transition to AmeriCorps and Grad School
28:25 AmeriCorps Service in Baltimore
29:36 Role as Peer Leader and Volunteer Maryland
30:07 Current Role and Final Reflections
37:57 Conclusion and Call to Action

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United For Impact: AmeriCorps and Peace Corps Forge Strategic Alliance to Mobilize American Volunteers for a Sustainable Tomorrow: https://americorps.gov/newsroom/press-release/united-impact-americorps-peace-corps-forge-strategic-alliance-mobilize

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

He recounts his start with AmeriCorps through a program recommended by his brother, progressing to his roles in New Orleans and Madagascar, and how these experiences influenced his perspective on personal growth, adaptability, and impact.

The episode highlights the shifts in John's service mindset, the adaptation and resilience gained through his service experiences, and the joy of fostering community through intentional connections. John also discusses the exciting changes at Notre Dame Mission Volunteers, reflecting ongoing growth and transformation in the national service landscape. The conversation underscores the themes of empathy, intentionality, and the transformative power of open-mindedness and curiosity in service.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Impact of Service
00:47 Meet John Knauer
03:18 John's AmeriCorps Journey Begins
07:26 The Importance of Site Supervisors
08:35 Personal Growth and Second Year of Service
20:41 Transition to Peace Corps
30:05 Cultural Immersion in Madagascar
31:06 Language Barriers and Misunderstandings
32:38 Comparing Dialects: Puerto Rico and Beyond
35:14 Peace Corps Projects and Achievements
39:37 Community and Happiness in Madagascar
45:20 Reflections on Service and Personal Growth
56:44 The Future of Notre Dame Mission Volunteers
59:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

{supporters}

Join host Nicki Fiocco on this exciting episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast as she interviews Mikayla Wright, an AmeriCorps alum with four summer service terms under her belt. Typically behind the scenes editing the podcast, Mikayla steps into the spotlight to share her unique journey from high school volunteer to AmeriCorps literacy specialist. She also delves into her current role as a marketing assistant at Do Good, Be Good, and her internship in athletic training. Discover how AmeriCorps shaped her path and continues to influence her dedication to service and community.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement
00:37 AmeriCorps Overview and Host Introduction
02:30 Mikayla's AmeriCorps Journey Begins
04:04 High School AmeriCorps Experience
07:48 College and Post-College Path
08:38 Current Role and Responsibilities
12:15 Connecting Past Experiences to Current Goals
18:15 Future Aspirations and Reflections
23:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, host Nicki Fiocco brings on Casey Vincelette from the New York State Service Commission to discuss their experiences and journeys through AmeriCorps. This episode offers insight into the impact of AmeriCorps programs on individuals and communities, and the unique opportunities within National Service. Casey shares her transformational experience with Teach for America, navigating challenges during the pandemic, and ultimately finding her way to New York to support the New York State Service Commission. The episode also highlights the ongoing 2024 Recruitment Extravaganza and the collaborative nature of service commissions across states.

00:00 Introduction to AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
00:32 Purpose and Special Series of the Podcast
02:15 Casey Vince's AmeriCorps Journey
05:17 Challenges and Triumphs in Teaching
17:24 Impact of the Pandemic on Education
19:05 Transition to New York State Service Commission
24:39 Recruitment and Opportunities in AmeriCorps
34:28 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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How to Get Connected:
↘️New Yorkers Volunteers - https://newyorkersvolunteer.ny.gov/
↘️Contact Casey - https://newyorkersvolunteer.ny.gov/americorps-right-your-organization

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

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Exploring AmeriCorps Opportunities with Leah Pagano: From Service Years to Career Paths

Join Nicki Fiocco, founder of AmeriCorps Connections Podcast, in an enlightening conversation with Leah Pagano, an AmeriCorps alumna based in Austin, Texas. Leah shares her diverse experiences serving on the west coast, detailing her journey from an education degree to her impactful work with AmeriCorps programs. Leah discusses the importance of civic engagement, the skills she gained during her service years, and her transition to Literacy First in Central Texas. Learn about the application process, program benefits, and the collaborative efforts of various AmeriCorps programs in Austin. Whether you're a recent graduate or a professional looking to pivot, this episode sheds light on how AmeriCorps can be a transformative experience.

00:00 Introduction to the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
01:58 Leah Pagano's AmeriCorps Journey
05:40 Experiences and Skills Gained During Service
10:50 Transitioning to a Career in Education
12:45 Joining Literacy First and Current Role
15:32 Program Details and Recruitment Information
19:48 Application Process and Benefits
22:05 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

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How to Get Connected:
➡️Literacy First Become a Tutor Page
➡️Literacy First LinkedIn
➡️Literacy First Instagram
➡️AmeriCorps Central Texas 
➡️AmeriCorps Central Texas LinkedIn
➡️AmeriCorps Central Texas Instagram

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

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AmeriCorps Alumni Lisa McGurk Shares Her Journey and Recruitment Insights | AmeriCorps Connections Podcast

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast, founder Nicki Fiocco interviews AmeriCorps alumna Lisa McGurk, representing Notre Dame Mission Volunteers AmeriCorps. Lisa discusses her unique journey through two AmeriCorps programs, her transition from a history professor to environmental educator, and how AmeriCorps shaped her career and life. Learn about AmeriCorps' impact on personal growth, community engagement, and current recruitment opportunities. Discover the benefits of joining one of the largest, oldest faith-based AmeriCorps programs and the transformative power of a service year. If you're considering a service year or curious about AmeriCorps, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.

00:00 Introduction to AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
00:14 Meet Lisa McGurk: Notre Dame Mission Volunteers AmeriCorps
00:44 About the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
02:08 Special Thanks and Acknowledgements
03:15 The Importance of Service Years
03:48 Lisa's Journey: From Academia to AmeriCorps
05:08 Discovering AmeriCorps Opportunities
05:45 Impact of Service: Personal Growth and Community Connections
07:29 Roles and Responsibilities in AmeriCorps
12:47 Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator Role
13:05 Expanding AmeriCorps Reach
15:35 Encouragement for Potential AmeriCorps Members
19:35 Current Opportunities with Notre Dame Mission Volunteers
23:03 Application Process and Requirements
27:47 Benefits of Joining AmeriCorps
29:53 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

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How to Get Connected:
Notre Dame Mission Volunteers -
How to Apply
Connect with Lisa -
📧email - Lmcgurk@ndmva.org

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

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Empowering Communities with Public Allies Alum Candace Jusino

Join host Nicki Fiocco on the AmeriCorps Connections podcast for a special episode in the 2024 Recruitment Extravaganza series. This episode features Candace Jusino, an AmeriCorps alum from Public Allies, who shares her journey from the financial sector to community service. Candace discusses the transformative impact of her AmeriCorps experience and provides insight into her role as a recruiter for Public Allies Delaware. Discover the benefits of AmeriCorps programs, upcoming recruitment opportunities, and how service can shape personal and professional growth. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, community engagement, and making a meaningful impact.

02:38 Introducing Candace Cusino and Public Allies
03:08 Candace's AmeriCorps Experience
07:22 The Impact of AmeriCorps Service
14:28 Candace's Role and Responsibilities
19:21 Transition from Service to Staff
24:16 Recruitment for Public Allies Delaware
31:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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How to Get Connected:
🔗Public Allies DE
🔗Application
🔗https://www.bidenschool.udel.edu/ccrs/service/pade

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Join VISTA alum and Portland's 7th Poet Laureate Maya Williams on July 18th at 5pm EST for the story of her service, their best writing tips, and her best tips to adjusting to life after service. Don't delay, click here to register today: REGISTER

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

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In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, host Nicki Fiocco speaks with Max Berry from the Earn to Learn (ETL) Next Steps program. They discuss the significance of the AmeriCorps service in addressing community and national issues, particularly focusing on the college access and readiness initiatives led by ETL. Max shares his journey into AmeriCorps during his senior year at the University of Arizona and his experiences working with high school students in underserved communities. The conversation highlights the process of becoming an ETL advisor, the program's recruitment efforts for the 2024-2025 term, and the broader impact of AmeriCorps service on personal and professional development.

00:11 Meet Max Berry from Earn to Learn
03:18 Discovering AmeriCorps: Max's Journey
04:45 Max's Service Experience and Impact
06:26 Navigating the AmeriCorps Application Process
11:44 Connecting with Students: Challenges and Successes
16:32 The Importance of Trade Schools and Alternative Paths
23:58 Recruitment for Earn to Learn: Opportunities and Benefits
29:54 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

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How to Get Connected:
📧Application Link: Next Steps Advisor • Earn to Learn
📧Email: max@earntolearn.org
🔗LinkedIn : Max Berry | LinkedIn

📣📣📣📣📣📣📣📣📣
Join VISTA alum and Portland's 7th Poet Laureate Maya Williams on July 18th at 5pm EST for the story of her service, their best writing tips, and her best tips to adjusting to life after service. Don't delay, click here to register today: REGISTER

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

In this episode, Nicki Fiocco chats with Kayla Doyle, Program Director for Cherry Health AmeriCorps program and two service term AmeriCorps Alumni.  Kayla started at Cherry Health with an internship for her Masters of Public Health, then served as a short term AmeriCorps member, then went back for more! Learn haw Kayla's service year contributed to her confidence in the field of social work and Program Management.

Hear about the open opportunities in the Cherry Health AmeriCorps program, with a deadline of August 19th, 2024!!! Apply today📣 Highly seeking Spanish speaking individuals!

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How to Get Connected:
📧KaylaDoyle@cherryhealth.com
📧AmeriCorps@herryhealth.com
🤝Cherry Health Careers Page (find AmeriCorps listings) 
🤝Cherry Health Website -

📣📣📣📣📣📣📣📣📣
Join VISTA alum and Portland's 7th Poet Laureate Maya Williams on July 18th at 5pm EST for the story of her service, their best writing tips, and her best tips to adjusting to life after service. Don't delay, click here to register today: REGISTER

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

Exploring Career Paths Through Service: An Insight into Confluence Environmental Center and AmeriCorps

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, host Nicki Fiocco interviews Ashlie Tainer, a two-time AmeriCorps alumna, currently involved with the Confluence Environmental Center in Portland, Oregon. Nicki and Ashlie discuss the impact and opportunities provided by AmeriCorps, particularly focusing on environmental equity and social justice. Ashlie shares her journey through AmeriCorps, highlighting the importance of making and nurturing connections, and how these experiences led her to her current role. They also elaborate on the recruitment process, benefits, and diverse roles available at Confluence Environmental Center. The episode emphasizes how an AmeriCorps year can serve as a significant stepping stone for career development and personal growth.

00:00 Introduction to the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
00:28 Nicki Fiocco's AmeriCorps Journey
00:56 Importance of Recruitment Season
01:44 Acknowledgements and Partnerships
02:40 Guest Introduction: Ashlie's AmeriCorps Experience
03:24 Ashlie's First AmeriCorps Term
04:54 Transition to Second Term and Further Education
07:03 Impact of AmeriCorps on Career Path
12:32 Confluence Environmental Center Overview
22:06 Recruitment Process and Opportunities
26:55 Additional Member Benefits and Support
29:37 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
33:00 Conclusion and Farewell

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How to Get Connected:
Confluence Environmental Center website
How to Apply
Confluence Environmental Center
🤝Instagram
🤝Facebook
🤝LinkedIn

📣📣📣📣📣📣📣📣📣
Join VISTA alum and Portland's 7th Poet Laureate Maya Williams on July 18th at 5pm EST for the story of her service, their best writing tips, and her best tips to adjusting to life after service. Don't delay, click here to register today: REGISTER TODAY!

🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝
Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, host Nicki Fiocco journeys to Arizona and discovers the "greatest empathy building training' with Katie Kolokziej who served with Maggie's Place in 2022 - 20223 and is now searching for the next cohort of AmeriCorps members to support the mission of supporting pregnant women who find themselves homeless.

We hope you enjoy this winding journey from data analyst to house manager and discover how resilience and the ability to do hard things is the moto that Katie contributes her service year too.

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Learn more and apply to Maggie's Place AmeriCorps Opportunity: https://www.maggiesplace.org/americorps/

↘️↘️↘️↘️↘️↘️↘️↘️
Join VISTA alum and Portland's 7th Poet Laureate Maya Williams on July 18th at 5pm EST for the story of her service, their best writing tips, and her best tips to adjusting to life after service. Don't delay, click here to register today

🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝
Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, host Nicki Fiocco travels to the Northern Rockies and explores the Montana Conservation Corps serving from the Rockies to the Southern plains.  Welcome to the 2024 recruitment extravaganza where Nicki highlights current AmeriCorps programs recruiting members to serve in their 2024-2025 cohort! Nicki talks with Caleb Stewart, an AmeriCorps alum and current AmeriCorps Recruitment & Admissions Manager at Montana Conservation Corps. Caleb shares his journey from suburban camping to a transformative year with the Montana Conservation Corps. Caleb reflects on resilience as a muscle and that he had to cut the tree and had to get the trail....and sometimes it was difficult and stay motivated.

Currently the Montana Conservation Corps is recruiting for several positions - check in with Caleb to find out how you can serve!

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Learn more and apply to MCC

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Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, host Nicki Fiocco celebrates the podcast's 50th episode milestone and highlights the ongoing 2024 recruitment extravaganza. Nicki talks with Allie Matheu, an AmeriCorps alum and current AmeriCorps Program Director at Community Mediation Maryland. Allie shares her journey from a college senior uncertain about her future to a transformative year at Volunteer Maryland, followed by her role as a team leader during the pandemic. They discuss the mediation skills and certifications AmeriCorps members gain and the various impactful mediation programs offered, including community, prisoner reentry, and school mediation. This episode also delves into the importance of listening, creating safe spaces for resolution, and the profound impact of mediation on personal and community levels.

00:00 Welcome to AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
00:37 Celebrating 50 Episodes and Recruitment Extravaganza
01:20 Introducing Allie Matheu and Her AmeriCorps Journey
02:18 Allie's Service Year Highlights and Reflections
08:10 Transitioning to Community Mediation Maryland
19:39 The Role and Impact of Community Mediation
29:17 How to Get Involved and Apply
34:13 The Importance of Mediation Services
39:16 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

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Learn more about Community Mediation AmeriCorps Opportunities
Find more AmeriCorps opportunities
Need a Mediator - find one in your county or state!

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Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, host Nicki Fiocco sits down with Jeunet Fidelino from the GO Foundation to discuss their 2024 recruitment initiatives. They explore Jeunet's journey from an education major to serving with AmeriCorps' City Year program in Los Angeles, and how that experience shaped her career path.

The conversation delves into the benefits of national service, including the Segal Education Award, professional growth, and the unique opportunities offered by the GO Foundation—such as housing for members. This episode is filled with inspirational stories and practical advice for those considering a year of service with AmeriCorps. Tune in for recruitment tips, success stories, and learn how you can make a difference as a GO Fellow.

00:00 Introduction to the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
00:07 Meet Jeunet Fidelino: AmeriCorps Alum and Go Foundation Advocate
00:33 Understanding AmeriCorps: A National Service Program
01:53 Highlighting the 2024 Recruitment Series
02:18 Shoutouts and Acknowledgements
03:18 Jeunet's National Service Journey
05:37 Experiencing City Year in Los Angeles
09:03 Challenges and Rewards of National Service
18:02 Transitioning from City Year to the Go Foundation
25:33 Opportunities with the Go Foundation
38:57 Application Process and Final Thoughts

🔁
Email: jfidelino@gofellows.org
Website: gofellows.org
Application link: APPLY NOW

🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

This episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, hosted by Nicki Fiocco, features a special edition on the recruitment drive for the 2024-25 service year, highlighting the contributions of AmeriCorps alumni now working to recruit new members. The guest, Gerard Chapelle, shares his journey from construction to becoming a significant part of Public Allies, an AmeriCorps program focusing on creating equitable societies through diverse leadership. Gerard discusses the impact of Public Allies on his life, the program's mission, and how it offers a platform for personal and professional growth through service in nonprofit sectors. The podcast also touches on the importance of AmeriCorps programs in providing opportunities and fostering community connections, making a call to action for listeners to consider serving or supporting AmeriCorps initiatives.

00:00 Welcome to the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast!
00:19 Introducing Gerard Chapelle and Public Allies
02:46 Gerard's Journey to AmeriCorps and Public Allies
04:31 The Role and Impact of an AmeriCorps Ally
07:35 Gerard's Personal Growth and Insights from Service
09:11 A Deep Dive into Halfway House Dynamics
14:21 Gerard's Specific Contributions and Learning Experiences
16:29 Navigating Life After Incarceration: Opportunities and Challenges
16:43 Exploring Educational Opportunities and Second Chances in Connecticut
17:30 The Importance of Mental Readiness and Core Values
18:37 From Public Allies to Program Manager: A Personal Journey
18:58 Addressing Absenteeism in Schools Post-COVID
20:27 The Role of Program Managers and Partnering with Public Allies
21:58 Diverse Opportunities for Public Allies Participants
22:48 The Value of Intergenerational Learning and Community Building
24:04 Recruitment, Training, and Benefits of Joining Public Allies
31:22 The Impact of Public Allies on Personal Growth and Community Service

♦️♦️♦️ Connect with Gerard -  gerardc@publicallies.org

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast, host Nicki Fiocco interviews Caleb Rigdon, a multi-term AmeriCorps alum currently working with the Iowa State Service Commission. Caleb shares his journey from being an AmeriCorps NCCC member to a VISTA leader and now supporting state-level recruitment for AmeriCorps programs. They discuss the transformative impact of national service, touch on various AmeriCorps programs, and delve into the significance of state service commissions in managing and distributing federal funding for community service. Viewers gain insights into different AmeriCorps opportunities in Iowa and hear personal stories of growth and community impact. Tune in for an engaging conversation full of valuable information for potential AmeriCorps members and supporters alike!

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:17 Guest Introduction: Caleb Rigdon
00:56 AmeriCorps Connections Podcast Overview
02:23 AmeriCorps Recruitment and Engagement
03:12 Acknowledgements and Gratitude
04:30 Caleb's AmeriCorps Journey Begins
06:57 NCCC Experience Highlights
16:47 Transition to Vista Leader
21:10 State Service Commission Role
22:46 Navigating State Service Commissions
23:57 Understanding AmeriCorps and State Commissions
25:01 Beyond AmeriCorps: State Service Commissions' Broader Role
27:01 The Role of Commissioners in State Service Commissions
29:23 Recruitment and Opportunities in Iowa
31:36 Diverse AmeriCorps Programs in Iowa
37:58 Success Stories and Impact of AmeriCorps Programs
40:14 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

♦️ email: Caleb caleb.rigdon@volunteeriowa.org
♦️ visit website

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 
• America's Service Commissions - ASC 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, host Nicki Fiocco interviews Beccah Rendall, an AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alum. They discuss the impact of service years on personal and professional development, highlighting Beccah's journey from Peace Corps volunteer in Cameroon to AmeriCorps VISTA member at the Kansas City Public Library's Refugee and Immigrant Services and Empowerment (RISE) department. The episode also delves into the 2024 Recruitment Extravaganza, aiming to spotlight AmeriCorps programs and encourage recruitment. Beccah shares insights on the importance of AmeriCorps service, its role in community engagement, and how it can lead to unexpected career paths and enrich connections. The discussion also includes tips on searching and applying for AmeriCorps opportunities, the benefits of serving, and the transformative power of contributing to community development through public service.

00:00 Welcome to AmeriCorps Connections Podcast!
00:47 The Impact of AmeriCorps and Personal Journeys
01:16 2024 Recruitment Extravaganza Highlight
02:09 The Power of Sharing and Supporting AmeriCorps Programs
02:34 Behind the Scenes: Podcast Production and Support
03:37 Beccah's Journey from Peace Corps to AmeriCorps
12:06 Exploring the Multifaceted Role of Libraries in Community Service
16:11 The Structure and Benefits of AmeriCorps Intermediaries
21:50 Exploring the Impact of Karma and Positive Actions
22:07 Opportunities at the Kansas City Public Library
23:17 AmeriCorps DigitalCorps: Empowering Through Technology
25:38 The Value of AmeriCorps Service: Professional Development and Beyond
28:33 Navigating AmeriCorps VISTA: Full-Time Service and Benefits
30:37 Building Community and Networking Through AmeriCorps
35:29 The Transformative Power of AmeriCorps Service
38:46 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement to Join AmeriCorps

♦️ email: Beccah beccahrendall@kclibrary.org
♦️ visit website: Kansas City Public Library

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

AmeriCorps National Service stands as a beacon of hope and unity, embodying the spirit of service that defines the very essence of community and citizenship. We are a voice for national and community service. We have all served in one way or another - let's engage, learn, and connect with each other! Let's Serve Life After AmeriCorps! 🌟🌟🌟🌟

AND NOW, we're thrilled to announce a special series centered around AmeriCorps member recruitment! 2024 RECRUITMENT EXTRAVAGANZA!!!! 😄🤩 AmeriCorps Alums Share: Impact and Opportunities - AmeriCorps Connections Podcast

We want to generate some buzz and get folks lined up and linked up with AmeriCorps programs who are in the season of recruitment. If you like what you hear, contact our guest and find out more about the AmeriCorps opportunities. Tell them you heard about their program through the AmeriCorps Connections podcast or YouTube Channel 😉 And don't forget to follow, share, and like the episode! Let's spread the word and build even stronger connections within the AmeriCorps family.

Access Communities in Schools, San Antonio AmeriCorps page here - https://cissa.org/join-our-americorps-team

Communities in Schools is a Certified Trauma Informed Organization through the South Texas Trauma Informed Care Consortium. 

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, host Nicki Fiocco talks with Sarah Kuntz from Communities in Schools, San Antonio, about the AmeriCorps recruitment extravaganza for the 2024-2025 service year. Kuntz shares her journey from participating in AmeriCorps to leading a recruitment effort for Communities in Schools. The podcast sheds light on AmeriCorps' transformative impact, its role in career development, and the opportunities it provides in various Texas areas, including San Antonio. The episode further details the recruitment process and the benefits of becoming an AmeriCorps member, emphasizing the importance of connections, adaptability, and the tailored support offered to serve the community and personal growth.

00:00 Welcome to AmeriCorps Connections: Recruitment Extravaganza Series
00:11 Introducing Sarah Kuntz: From AmeriCorps Alum to Community Leader
00:36 Nicki's AmeriCorps Journey and Podcast Vision
01:35 Recruitment Challenges and the Power of AmeriCorps
02:11 Special Thanks and How to Support the Podcast
03:25 Sarah's AmeriCorps Journey: From City Year to Communities in Schools
07:57 The Impact of AmeriCorps Service on Career Paths
13:44 Communities in Schools: AmeriCorps Opportunities and Impact
26:18 Recruitment Details and How to Apply
34:01 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

AmeriCorps National Service stands as a beacon of hope and unity, embodying the spirit of service that defines the very essence of community and citizenship. We are a voice for national and community service. We have all served in one way or another - let's engage, learn, and connect with each other! Let's Serve Life After AmeriCorps! 🌟🌟🌟🌟

AND NOW, we're thrilled to announce a special series centered around AmeriCorps member recruitment! 2024 RECRUITMENT EXTRAVAGANZA!!!! 😄🤩 AmeriCorps Alums Share: Impact and Opportunities - AmeriCorps Connections Podcast

We want to generate some buzz and get folks lined up and linked up with AmeriCorps programs who are in the season of recruitment. If you like what you hear, contact our guest and find out more about the AmeriCorps opportunities. Tell them you heard about their program through the AmeriCorps Connections podcast or YouTube Channel 😉 And don't forget to follow, share, and like the episode! Let's spread the word and build even stronger connections within the AmeriCorps family.

This AmeriCorps Connections podcast episode focused on a recruitment extravaganza for the 2024-2025 service year, featuring guest Erin Susman, an AmeriCorps alum and recruiter. Erin shares her transformative AmeriCorps experience in West Virginia, highlighting her role and the unexpected career path it paved for her in community development. The discussion also covers the importance of AmeriCorps in personal growth, community impact, upcoming recruitment opportunities at West Virginia Community Development Hub, and the benefits of AmeriCorps service, such as professional development and educational awards. Erin shares her excitement about future projects and ways to engage with and apply to AmeriCorps positions.

🔁🔁🔁
Hub Website
Hub Job Board
Erin LinkedIn
Erin contact info: e.susman@wvhub.org | 304-533-1077 ext 1010

00:00 Welcome to AmeriCorps Connections: Recruitment Extravaganza Special!
00:24 Introducing AmeriCorps Connections and Its Mission
03:30 Special Guest Erin Susman: An AmeriCorps Journey
04:23 Erin's AmeriCorps Story: From Theater to Community Service
07:07 The Impact of National Service: Erin's Experience in West Virginia
09:50 From AmeriCorps to Career: Erin's Transition and Growth
11:03 The Power of Community and Connections in National Service
20:13 Exploring Erin's Current Role and Recruitment Opportunities
24:04 Discovering New Communities and Adventures with Vista
24:47 Exploring West Virginia's Hidden Gems
25:57 Innovative Partnerships: Vista and AmeriCorps State and National
30:38 The Unique Role of Vista Leaders
33:10 Navigating the Application Process and Opportunities
35:40 Building a Cohesive Community and Professional Development
39:17 Personal Reflections and Future Excitements

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

In this special edition of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, Tray Deadwyler returns to share insights from his AmeriCorps service and introduce his new book, 'The Contemplative Morning.' Host Nicki Fiocco, an AmeriCorps alum, dives deep into discussions about leadership development, the importance of mindfulness, and how to cultivate essential life skills such as intentionality, courage, resilience, and love. Deadwyler's organization, Think for Good, focuses on leadership and culture development, emphasizing that leadership skills must be cultivated through presence and mindfulness. The podcast also touches on the significance of feedback, creating brave spaces for growth, and the transformative power of asking the right questions. Deadwyler's 'The Contemplative Morning' is framed as a 40-day guide, aiming to empower readers to embark on a journey of self-reflection, personal growth, and meaningful change, supporting the notion that effective leadership and fulfillment in life begin with understanding and nurturing oneself.

00:00 Welcome Back to AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
00:04 Introducing Tray Deadwyler: A Return Guest
00:37 AmeriCorps Service Year: Reflecting on the Impact
03:53 Leadership Development with Tray Deadwyler
05:05 Exploring Mindfulness and Leadership Patterns
05:58 Feedback and Growth: Navigating Leadership Blind Spots
08:05 The Power of Reflection and Inquiry in Leadership
13:38 Introducing 'The Contemplative Morning' by Tray Deadwyler
14:20 The Process and Inspiration Behind the Book
23:01 Applying Mindfulness and Acceptance in Daily Life
28:55 Exploring Self Sovereignty and Leadership
29:46 The Power of Leadership and Self-Management
30:13 Navigating Challenges and Responses in Leadership
30:42 Effective Communication and Personal Growth
32:25 Embracing Change and Personal Transformation
41:04 Understanding Love and Its Many Dimensions
46:53 The Human First Perspective: A New Lens on Life
51:37 Utilizing 'The Contemplative Morning' for Personal Growth
59:02 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

🟩The Contemplative Morning - Buy The Book!
🟩Think for Good

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

AmeriCorps National Service stands as a beacon of hope and unity, embodying the spirit of service that defines the very essence of community and citizenship. We are a voice for national and community service. We have all served in one way or another - let's engage, learn, and connect with each other! Let's Serve Life After AmeriCorps! 🌟🌟🌟🌟

AND NOW, we're thrilled to announce a special series centered around AmeriCorps member recruitment! 2024 RECRUITMENT EXTRAVAGANZA!!!! 😄🤩 AmeriCorps Alums Share: Impact and Opportunities - AmeriCorps Connections Podcast

We want to generate some buzz and get folks lined up and linked up with AmeriCorps programs who are in the season of recruitment. If you like what you hear, contact our guest and find out more about the AmeriCorps opportunities. Tell them you heard about their program through the AmeriCorps Connections podcast or YouTube Channel 😉 And don't forget to follow, share, and like the episode! Let's spread the word and build even stronger connections within the AmeriCorps family.
♦️
Meet Amanda Hart, an AmeriCorps alum and the AmeriCorps Program Manager for for Metropolitan Family Service.

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, we feature Amanda Hart from Metropolitan Family Service. She discusses her AmeriCorps experience, the organization's involvement, and current recruitment efforts. We also cover the benefits and challenges of AmeriCorps service, the impact of building community connections, and how service experiences can lead to career opportunities. If this episode was valuable to you, please comment or share with someone who might benefit from knowing about this National Service Opportunity.

00:00 Welcome to the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast!
00:28 Nicki's AmeriCorps Journey and the Power of Alumni Connections
01:09 Announcing the 2024 Recruitment Extravaganza
01:42 How to Explore AmeriCorps Opportunities
02:12 Engaging with the AmeriCorps Community: Share Your Experience!
02:33 Special Guest Amanda Hart: An AmeriCorps Story
04:17 Amanda's Unexpected Journey into AmeriCorps
06:32 The Impact of AmeriCorps: Building Skills and Community
10:30 Amanda's Service Year: From Community Involvement to Lifelong Connections
20:31 Transitioning from AmeriCorps to Career: Amanda's Path
23:15 Recruiting for Metropolitan Family Services: Opportunities and Benefits
36:52 How to Get Involved with Metropolitan Family Services
40:55 Closing Thoughts and Invitation for Feedback

♦️
Connect & Get involved! 🙌
♦️♦️♦️ Amanda Hart - amandah@mfs.email
♦️♦️♦️ Metropolitan Family Service - https://www.mfspdx.org/americorps

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)