NEXT STEPS OVERVIEW
Next Steps AmeriCorps is a college retention and success initiative. The program was designed to support to its members’ personal development and provide additional funding during their college journey, with a goal of increasing the chances of successful completion and ultimately, graduation.
Upon approval and enrollment, members will be placed at one of our community-focused, non-profit, partner organizations to complete their volunteer service. There will be several "all-Corps events" where members from all of our partner universities will meet for professional development or pure service-based, or a combination of both. Additionally, members will be matched with one incoming first-year student, based on similar interests and background, to mentor for the full school year.
RESPONSIBILITIES
As a member of the program, you will commit to year of service (August 20, 2024 through August 19, 2025), during which time you will complete 300 hours of service during the school year (between September and May) where specifically, you agree to:
- Volunteer 8-10 hours per week at one of our established service sites (compensated by work-study if eligible).
- Mentor an incoming first year student.
- Attend regular meetings with a team leader and fellow members.
- Participate in scheduled leadership development workshops.
- Attend three, full day “all-corps” special events.
- Volunteer for special service days during Winter and Spring break.
ELIGIBILITY
To be accepted into the Next Steps program, you must:
1. Be enrolled as an undergraduate at one of our partner campuses for the 24-25 school year:
a. Arcadia University
b. Community College of Philadelphia
c. Cheyney University
d. La Salle University
e. Temple University
2. Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or legal permanent resident alien of the United States.
3. Confirm that you are Pell-Grant eligible.
4. Pass a required background check.
5. Attend a virtual Pre-Orientation where you will be asked to present that following documentation
a. valid driver’s license or state ID;
b. birth certificate or passport; and
c. social security card.
COMPENSATION
Next Steps members are compensated with Federal Work-Study stipends during their service year and those who successfully complete the program receive an Education Award of $1,459 which can be used for tuition or student loan repayment. (*Please contact your Financial Aid office to confirm you are approved for work-study funds prior to applying to this program.)
Applications are now being accepted for the 2024-2025 term.
DEADLINE
May 1, 2024
Questions? Email Robin.Hall@phennd.org
