Americorps National Service Opportunities And Volunteer Programs

Jan. 25, 2026, 2:09 p.m.

Tags: americorps

AmeriCorps is a federal agency that engages individuals in national service and volunteering to address the country's most pressing challenges. Formerly known as the Corporation for National and Community Service, AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors work with nonprofit organizations, public sector entities, local governments, colleges, universities, and tribal communities. The agency's mission is to bring people together to improve communities and make service to others a cornerstone of national culture. By participating in AmeriCorps programs, members and volunteers contribute to community improvement while developing skills and fostering lifelong civic engagement. The main office is located at 250 E Street SW, Washington, DC 20525, and the agency can be contacted at 1-800-942-2677.

AmeriCorps Programs and Initiatives

AmeriCorps offers a variety of programs designed to deliver direct service or build capacity within communities. These programs provide flexible ways for individuals to make a local impact. The primary programs include State and National, VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America), NCCC (National Civilian Community Corps), Foster Grandparents, Senior Companions, RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program), and the Volunteer Generation Fund. Additionally, AmeriCorps supports initiatives such as the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance and Martin Luther King Jr. National Day of Service.

AmeriCorps Seniors Programs

AmeriCorps Seniors focuses on engaging Americans aged 55 and older in volunteer service. This segment includes several distinct programs:

RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program): One of the agency's most flexible grant programs. RSVP grants are provided to organizations with the dual purpose of engaging Americans 55 years and older in volunteer service to meet critical community needs and providing a high-quality experience for the volunteers. Organizations determine where the need is greatest and how volunteers can respond, provided the service falls within one of AmeriCorps' six focus areas: Disaster Services, Economic Opportunity, Environmental Stewardship, Education, Healthy Futures, and Veterans & Military Members.
Foster Grandparent Program: This program provides grants to organizations aiming to engage Americans 55 years and older in volunteer service while offering one-on-one support to children with special needs. The goal is to improve the academic, social, or emotional development of these children. Volunteers in this program provide supportive, individualized services to help older adults with special needs maintain their dignity and independence.
Senior Companions Program: Volunteers in this program provide supportive, individualized services to help older adults with special needs maintain their dignity and independence.

Volunteer Generation Fund (VGF)

The Volunteer Generation Fund focuses on investments in volunteer management practices to increase both volunteer recruitment and retention. This program is designed to enhance the capacity of organizations to effectively engage volunteers, especially during times of social need when many Americans seek opportunities to give back.

How to Find AmeriCorps Opportunities

Individuals interested in participating in AmeriCorps programs can search for national service opportunities suited to their skills, interests, and circumstances through the My AmeriCorps portal. The "Advanced Search" page on My AmeriCorps provides a quick and easy way to find suitable opportunities.

The search process involves three primary steps: 1. Selecting the issue area or areas of interest. 2. Selecting one or more geographic areas where the individual would be interested in serving. 3. Clicking the "Search" button.

To narrow down the search further, users have the option to enter additional information about themselves before searching. This can include the specific program they wish to participate in, any specialized skills they possess, and whether they are looking for full-time or part-time opportunities. For assistance, individuals can call 1-800-942-2677 or submit a help request through the website.

Purpose and Impact

AmeriCorps' purpose is to bring out the best of America by providing opportunities for Americans to serve their country domestically. Through service, members address the nation's challenges, improve lives and communities, and strengthen civic engagement. Each year, AmeriCorps members serve in thousands of service settings. These powerful service experiences help members develop skills and passion for lifelong civic engagement, increase personal growth, and open doors to diverse career paths. AmeriCorps aims to make service to others an indispensable part of the American experience.