www.sampleresume.net |
|
|
Financial Aid For AmeriCorps
|
Article on Financial Aid For AmeriCorps
If you enjoy volunteering, then the AmeriCorps has many benefits in addition to helping fellow American citizens. For those not familiar with the program, AmeriCorps was instituted by President Bill Clinton in 1993 to help improve the quality of life in various communities around the country. There are three main branches in AmeriCorps which are State and National, VISTA, and National Civilian Community Corps. Serving in the AmeriCorps makes you eligible for certain benefits which include financial assistance for higher education. This is an excellent way to pursue a college degree while doing something of value for fellow citizens in need.
Eligibility for AmeriCorps
Typically, to receive financial aid for attending college you will have to have earned a GED or High School Diploma and successfully complete your full commitment to AmeriCorps. One year of full time service with AmeriCorps is rewarded with $4,725. Even if you only work part time with AmeriCorps, there are financial aid options available, though a bit less is awarded. However, any financial assistance is good when you are trying to pay for college! Those who have successfully completed a volunteer term with the VISTA AmeriCorps program have the option of either taking an Education Award or a stipend of $1,200 for your service. In order to be eligible for the Education Award, you must apply for it before starting your term of service.
How to Use an AmeriCorps Education Award
The AmeriCorps Education Award can be used for a number of different expenses related to attending college. If you have previously attended college, you may use it to repay qualified student loans. A qualified student loan is defined as a loan that is backed by the USA Federal Government. It excludes the Federal PLUS loan, so be sure to take a note of that. You can also use the funds to pay for educational expenses at a qualified school that you are currently attending. Even when enrolled in a Work-Study program, it is possible to use some of these funds to help pay for tuition, room, board, supplies, and transportation. It is an excellent way to help take some of the burden of paying for college off your shoulders and is a great way that the US government rewards volunteers for their service.
The philosophy of AmeriCorps is that if you put in your time helping your fellow citizens you should be rewarded for your volunteer efforts. Volunteering is a civic duty that all American Citizens should partake in at some point in their life. For those who truly desire to make a difference in the world, becoming a volunteer is an excellent way to start on that path. Not only will you be helping fellow Americans, you will be rewarded with financial assistance toward a college degree. Help others, but help yourself at the same time. For more information on this program, visit the AmeriCorps website or talk to a local chapter near you.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|