Frequently asked questions are below. If you cannot find an answer to your question, feel free to contact Danielle Plumlee, AmeriCorps Program Director.
Can I join the program late or leave the program early due to schooling?
Typically, the answer is no, though you can reach out to a specific site to see if it’s a possibility. As an AmeriCorps State program, members are required to complete 900 (half-term) or 1700 (full-term) hours before the end of the term. Starting late or leaving early means you would have to serve over 40 hours per week to complete your term of service in time. Furthermore, this may cause you to miss required trainings that will impact the rest of your term with AmeriCorps.
What if I get a better job during my term of service? Can I leave?
Lakes Region Conservation Corps members sign a Member Service Agreement upon joining the team. The Member Service Agreement outlines your commitment to the program. Leaving the program early disqualifies you from receiving the education award and may disqualify you from participating in other AmeriCorps programs in the future.
What can I apply my Education Award towards?
After successfully completing your AmeriCorps term of service, you are eligible to receive the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award. You can use the award to repay qualified student loans and to pay current educational expenses at eligible institutions of higher education and training programs. You can read more about this on the AmeriCorps website here (https://americorps.gov/members-volunteers/segal-americorps-education-award).
What loans can I apply the Segal Education Award towards?
The Segal Education Award only applies towards loans backed by the federal government under Title IV of the Higher Education Act, Loans under Titles CII or CIII of the Public Service Health Act, or Loans made by a state agency.
Do I receive non-competitive eligibility status for serving with the Lakes region Conservation Corps?
No, non-competitive eligibility status is not a benefit of the Lakes Region Conservation Corps because it is an AmeriCorps State program. You can read our list of benefits on our About page. Individuals serving with AmeriCorps VISTA, an AmeriCorps National program, may qualify for non-competitive eligibility status. You can read more about other AmeriCorps programs at AmeriCorps.gov.
What does it mean that this is a service position through AmeriCorps state?
As an AmeriCorps position, members are devoting their time to serving the community. Members are not paid, but do receive a living allowance, housing or a housing stipend, trainings, certifications, and the Segal Education Award upon successful completion of service. You can read more about the benefits you receive on the About page.
Will I get to Scuba Dive with my host site?
The only host site that certifies their members and actively has them scuba diving is the Squam Lakes Association.
What is there to do around my host site when I’m not serving?
The Lakes Region boasts ample hiking, skiing, climbing, and other outdoor recreation opportunities. Contact your specific site supervisor to learn more about the area you are interested in.