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AmeriCorps Members Walking Through a Field

 

Becoming a Member

Why do we serve?

   

Bring your whole self to service with ECO AmeriCorps

Being an ECO allows you to build your confidence and capabilites on projects you care about. We acknowledge the benefits of diversity to any team, project, and effort. To create a program more accessible and appealing to people of all backgrounds and identities, we are changing aspects of our applicant process to ensure all prospective members feel seen and welcomed by our program. 

Experience and connection is an integral part of our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion strategy

Explore our site to learn more about what your service with ECO AmeriCorps could look like and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn!

Don't hesitate to reach out to Dustin, Program Coordinator at Dustin.Bowman@Vermont.gov or Cori, Team Leader at alex.mckearin@partner.vermont.gov ahead of applying with any questions or concerns!

 


As an ECO, you'll serve with a Host Site Organization

ECO AmeriCorps' focus is to provide capacity for organizations to complete projects around the state within water quality, waste management, and conservation fields. This is accomplished through supporting our members, providing professional development, mentoring, and a sense of community. 

We partner with local municipalities, conservation districts, solid waste management districts, other state departments, and non-profits to host AmeriCorps members. Visit our Host Organizations page to see where members are currently serving. Go to our What you'll do page to see what projects our members do, read stories from current members on News & Updates

In accordance with our effort to make ECO more diverse, equitable, and inclusive in all aspects of our program, the Host Site Application for the 2022-2023 service year piloted new expectations for organizations wanting to host an ECO AmeriCorps member. We ask each organization to detail their strategy for their own DEI goals and commitments, which were weighted significantly in our final selection process.

By setting higher standards for ourself and organizations we partner with, it is our hope we can effect positive change in Vermont through our networks. 


Member Benefits

Benefits include: 

  • Total living stipend of $23,000, paid bi-weekly throughout your 11 months of service. 
  • Upon successful completion of 1700 hours (40 hours per week), you will be eligible for an AmeriCorps Segal Education Award of $6,895 (pre-tax). Visit the Coorporation for National Community Service website for more information on what being an AmeriCorps member means.

Additional benefits: 

  • Health insurance
  • Child care assistance
  • Professional training
  • Program support
  • Access to peer network

Part of the framework being built by the ECO cohort is a continuation of the capacity for future ECO members to be involved in our DEI efforts. ECO members will be invited to continue improving program aspects, tracking progress, and fufilling commitments. While not a requirement of service with ECO AmeriCorps, the DEI Strategy opportunity is an exciting way to get involved & advance positive change. 


Time Commitment

The vast majority of our positions are full time service terms of 11 months, beginning in September and ending the following August. Members are required to serve a minimum of 1,700 hours during this time - about 40 hours per week. 

Part time service terms of 6 months and 3 months are occasionally available, part-time positions will be posted as they are available. Members are required to serve a minimum of 900 hours or 450 hours, respectively. 

View Our Performance Goals


Apply to ECO and tell us why you want to serve!

Currently accepting applications for the 2023-2024 Service Year.  Submit your application through the AmeriCorps Portal.

 


 

Here are some FAQ's on becoming a member!

Reach out to us directly:

Dustin Bowman Program Coordinator dustin.bowman@vermont.gov 

Carey Hengstenberg Program Director carey.hengstenberg@vermont.gov

Alexandria McKearin Team Leader alex.mckearin@partner.vermont.gov