Many college students and job seekers desire opportunities that allow them to directly impact people, policies and programs that benefit socially-focused groups. These opportunities can range from summer experiences to year-round volunteer work and temporary commitments to long term opportunities.
The types of opportunities vary but can include serving through well-established programs, teaching overseas, working for organizations, volunteering and more. Many local communities have organizations that provide civic opportunities. Local and state governments offer additional civic-based employment opportunities. Professional organizations may have outreach opportunities to those interested in the shared mission of the group.
Completing a year of service has numerous benefits. Most offer a weekly stipend, health care and money toward undergraduate or graduate school once the year of service is completed (this money may also be used to pay off federal student loans). Other benefits include learning to work on a diverse team, first-hand exposure to complex social issues and the satisfaction of making a difference in the community.
Organizations and Programs
- AmeriCorps
- City Year
- Community HealthCorps
- Earthwatch
- Green Corps
- Habitat for Humanity
- Jesuit Volunteer Corps
- Peace Corps
- Student Conservation Association
- Teach for America
- UN Volunteers