Members serve both in teams and individually through national and community-based private and public organizations. Members help solve community problems through direct and indirect service in the areas of education, public safety, the environment, and other human needs such as health and housing.

Mission Statement: Camp Fire USA builds caring, confident youth and future leaders. AmeriCorps members will help provide after-school and summer programs for at-risk youth in low-income areas in Grand Rapids. By providing these program opportunities, children and youth will have a safe and secure environment during the most violent times for juvenile crime. These programs also build developmental assets, which are the foundation for becoming successful and productive adults.

Eligibility:
Applicants must be at least 17 years old and a U.S. citizen, national or legal permanent resident alien of the U.S., and be a high school graduate or GED recipient.

Skill Requirements:
Experience working with youth is desired, but not mandatory.

Term of Service:
Full-time (1700 hours) or half-time (900 hours) for one year beginning in the fall.

Living Allowance:
$11,400 (full-time) or $6,035 (half-time)—Living allowance is divided into 24 equal payments, which members receive twice per month.

Education Award:
Upon completion of one-year term of service, full-time members receive a $4,725.00 education award and half-time members receive a $2,362.50 education award.

Student Loans:
Members may qualify for forbearance (postponement) of the repayment of their student loans during their term of service. The education award can be used to help pay off qualified student loans or pay for future education expenses at qualified schools.

Benefits:
Full-time members are eligible to receive health insurance and may qualify for Child Care assistance.

Project Location:
Members will be serving the Grand Rapids, Michigan area.

Training:
Members will participate in on-going personal and professional development training, including Child Development, Communication, Conflict Resolution, CPR/First Aid, and Life After AmeriCorps.