At VYCC, the farming and conservation projects young people undertake not only offer valuable training and skills—they are also acts of service that benefit the communities we work within.

That’s why since 1995, VYCC has been an AmeriCorps service site. We partner with the state AmeriCorps office, SerVermont, and the federal Corporation for National and Community Service to provide paid service positions in Vermont. These positions are for a specific number of service hours, from 300 hours (roughly 4 weeks) to 1,700 hours (one year).

During their time with VYCC, AmeriCorps Members receive a stipend and can earn a Segal Education Award upon completion of service, which can be used to pay for professional development, education, and student loan repayment.

Possibilities for using the Award to further training and education include:

• Loan Payment & Further Education: college/university (i.e. tuition, loan payment, supplies, room/board), trade schools 
• Attending a School of National Service: Select schools offer scholarships or matching funds, application fee waivers, and other benefits for AmeriCorps alums
• Wilderness Training: Outward Bound, National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS), Wilderness First Aid 
• Certifications such as scuba diving, sign-language, yoga teacher 
• Opportunities Abroad: Global Service Corps, schools overseas (under Title IV)

And some AmeriCorps Members choose to continue their careers with VYCC!

“I chose to become a VYCC Crew Leader after completing the maximum number of terms of service through AmeriCorps. I used to think that becoming an adult meant exploring independence and autonomy. Through years of service experiences, my question has changed to ‘What kind of impact can I have, and what can we accomplish together?’ Becoming an invested community member allowed me to expand my vision of myself, what I am capable of, and the ways I can contribute. I chose to become a VYCC Crew Leader to connect with young individuals who have taken a chance. To create a safe space for them to explore their own potential and capabilities – to discover what they could accomplish if they allow themselves to try.”

– Allissa Vigil, 2023 Conservation Crew Leader

Requirements

To participate in AmeriCorps, Members must be at least 17 years old; high school graduates or GED recipients (or working towards this goal); and U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals or Lawful Permanent Residents of the United States.

See the Results

As part of their service, VYCC AmeriCorps members work on a variety of food and farming projects on the VYCC campus and a wide range of conservation projects around the state. Take a look at some of their featured projects.