Applicants sought for eight AmeriCorps positions

Each year, the Delaware Economic Development Office receives a major boost from AmeriCorps, which provides the services of men and women devoted to tackling some of the more challenging problems facing society today.

This year, more help is on the way thanks to a $102,800 grant award that will bring eight members to DEDO through the AmeriCorps State program.

DEDO is in the process of recruiting eight people who will be trained and placed to meet community needs in education, public safety, health and the environment.

"The AmeriCorps program has brought some incredibly talented and dedicated individuals to DEDO, and the contributions of these men and women cannot be overstated," said Alan Levin, DEDO director. "Our communities need the energy and ideas that these AmeriCorps recruits will bring to the table."

DEDO’s eight recruits will work in the Economic Opportunity focus area. Their activities will include improving access to services and benefits that enhance financial literacy; helping individuals with the transition into or ability to remain in safe, healthy and affordable housing; and working to help people gain employment.

The open positions are as follows:

• Delaware Economic Development Office - financial research coordinator, capital resources; strategic communications specialist; tourism marketing outreach specialist

• Dover Interfaith Mission for Housing - services coordinator

• Junior Achievement of Delaware - after-school outreach and program expansion associate

• First State Community Loan Fund - impact and research associate

• Job Centers at Delaware Libraries - community resources coordinator.

Applicants must be 17 or older and have some college experience, which will vary depending on the position. They also must complete a minimum of 1,700 hours of service within 12 months. Once selected, AmeriCorps members will attend training from Sept. 9 to 12, and the first day at their sites will be Sept. 15.

In Delaware, AmeriCorps members serve with nonprofit organizations as well as public agencies to make the state a great place in which to live, work and study. Members receive a $12,100 living allowance as well as health coverage and student loan deferment while in service. Upon successful completion of the program, members receive $5,645 to pay for college, graduate school or to pay back student loans.

To apply for one of the eight positions, send a cover letter and resume to DEDO.resumes@state.de.us.