What qualifications do I need to serve?
To qualify for PMSC AmeriCorps you must be a United States citizen, United States national or lawful permanent resident of the United States and be at least 17 years of age. There is no upper age limit, and many members bring significant work and life experiences to their assignment. PMSC's oldest member to date was 78!

How do I apply?
Your first step is to complete the online application. Your application information will be made available to organizations with an open position. We also encourage individuals to look at our list of available positions and contact organizations with positions for which you are qualified, to let them know you would like to be considered for an interview. However, this is a competitive process, and filling out an application, or requesting to be considered for an interview, does not guarantee selection to serve. If a position is marked filled on our website, it is not available. We generally accept applications May through December. Check back often for new openings or updates.

Do I need to join to be a member?
If selected to serve, one is considered to be “a member” of the national AmeriCorps service movement and therefore referred to as an “AmeriCorps member”. Members in the PMSC AmeriCorps program have the opportunity to serve at a non-profit or governmental organization within: Allegheny, Armstrong, Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Centre, Clearfield, Fayette, Franklin, Fulton,Greene, Huntingdon, Indiana, Somerset, Washington, or Westmoreland Counties.

What is a host site?
A “host site” is an organization that has an AmeriCorps service position.

What is the education award?
After successfully completing a term of service, PMSC AmeriCorps members are eligible to receive the "Segal AmeriCorps Education Award". The award may be used to pay education costs at qualified institutions of higher education, for educational training, or to repay qualified student loans.The award for a year of full-time service is $5,550 and $2,775 for part-time ( 900 hours) service, and $1,175 for a 300 hour service position. Once earned, the award is deposited into a trust fund and receipients have seven years to use the money. The money may be disbursed in increments or used all at once. For members 55 and over, the award may be transfered to a child or grandchild. For more Education Award information, click here or go to http://www.nationalservice.gov/about/serveamerica/edaward.asp

Can I defer my student loans while I serve in an AmeriCorps position?
You may qualify for postponement, also called forbearance, while serving. A forbearance request may be made to your loan holder once you have started a term of AmeriCorps service.
 
What is a term of service?
A full- time term of service is 1700 hours, and a part-time term is 900 hours. There may also be some non-stipended 450 and 300 hour terms that receive an education award only. The term of service may be served August-August, August-June, or October-August. Occasionally an additional late start date is added. Start dates are indicated on our service positions page. Host sites determine which start date they will use and if their position will be full or part-time. When accepting a position, a member must be willing to make a commitment to serve the entire term.

Do I get health care benefits?
Members serving 1700 hours are eligible for basic health care coverage for themselves. The coverage, including prescription is at no cost to members. Plan copays and benefits are detailed at the Summit America Website. Click Here.

Can I get child care benefits?
Members serving 1700 hours may be eligible to receive assistance with child care costs. The benefit is dependent on family income.

Is housing paid for?
No. Housing is not provided for PMSC AmeriCorps service.

Can I go to school or work another job while I serve?
Yes. There are no restrictions on attending school or seeking additional employment while serving with PMSC AmeriCorps.Members can not be employed and serve at the same organization. This includes substitute teaching or coaching for the same school district in which you serve. Review your position’s time demands directly with your host organization.

Are there any restrictions to who can serve as an AmeriCorps member?
To qualify for PMSC AmeriCorps service you must be a United States citizen, United States national or lawful permanent resident of the United States and be at least 17 years of age. Members must also provide criminal, childabuse and FBI clearances. A criminal history may barr service as governed by federal statutes and the PA. Department of Education.