AmeriCorps Members
Invest to Be the Change
Youth in Service doesn’t exist to host Senior Breakfast Clubs on the weekend. Youth in Service doesn’t exist to plant a vegetable garden for a malnourished community. And Youth in Service doesn’t exist to bag lunches to donate to a food pantry to feed hungry families.
We do not serve to see the genuine grins on the faces of the people we are helping. We do not serve because we want to change someone’s day for the good.
Yes, we do all of these things. Yes, we love all of these responses.
However, the youth groups that serve through Youth in Service serve to BE the change, not just to make a change. Our youth that serve want to be the change in our community that makes a lasting impact on our world and paves the way for generations to come.
Our groups of youth, aged 8 to 18 years, who volunteer through Youth in Service, are the future of our world. With each seemingly small project, we strive to engage, educate, and empower our volunteers to continue serving the community by illustrating the powerful impression each person has in helping the future generations of Chicago and the world.
One project at a time, Chicago Cares Youth in Service is able to work with youth volunteers to serve many issue areas: seniors, homelessness and hunger, children’s education, persons with disabilities, environmental issues, and anything they can imagine. Allowing these youth to take the lead and work together is truly empowering and makes a difference on how they view the world and how they view the meaning of service.
I have been fortunate enough to work with students from Mather High School this past month and will continue doing so for the rest of the school year. From day one it was clear that they want to help others, but weren’t really sure how. After serving at their first Youth in Service project last Saturday, the students are better able to relate to people unlike themselves and better understand the needs of our community.
Help continue bettering Chicago and the world by starting with this amazing generation by making a donation through the Chicago Cares I Care campaign. Invest in small project, like a $150 Senior Breakfast Club that not only provides a fun and nutritious meal for senior citizens, but also teaches youth the importance of service.
Visit our I Care campaign to make a donation today. Or click here to fundraise for Chicago Cares.
Written By Danika Marcano
HandsOn AmeriCorps Member
Youth in Service
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Reflections on a Year of Service
On Friday some of our staff members shared their thoughts on our AmeriCorps members and the impact they had during their year of service. Today, Chris, Adrienne and Jen reflect on the past year and talk about the highlights and what they’ll take with them as they pursue their next adventures.
It’s that time of year again, time to bid farewell to our wonderful AmeriCorps members as they complete their year of service with Chicago Cares. We have loved the opportunity to get to know Chris, Adrienne and Jen. We’ll miss them here at Chicago Cares but we know that they will continue to do great things as they take the next steps in their careers!
What was your favorite/most memorable experience during your year with Chicago Cares?
Jennifer: My favorite experience throughout my year at Chicago Cares was the Student Service and Leadership Program at Mather High School. Over almost an entire school year I was able to see the students I worked with grow and truly learn to love volunteering. I had an opportunity to be in the classroom and at many projects, working with the youth volunteers on a one to one basis which was a lot of fun and pretty exciting.
Adrienne: I have been a regular volunteer at Marillac Social Center in the East Garfield Park neighborhood of Chicago for a couple of months now. I volunteer for two programs, Math + Science and Read-with-Me at Marillac, which help to support mostly 2nd and 3rd grade students in reading, math, and science. In April, I was given the opportunity to be a volunteer leader for the Read-with-Me program. Although I was a bit nervous about leading this program for the first time, I decided to take the chance and try it out. I had a group of about 8 students and 5 volunteers, several of whom were first time volunteers with Chicago Cares. I led the students and volunteers in reading a story about geography and creating U.S. states out of cookies and icing. The project was a great success, the students were exciting to learn geography in a new and fun way and the volunteers were excited to help the students work on their reading skills. I was glad I took the opportunity to try leadership for this program for the first time. Also, when I went back to Marillac a couple of weeks later, I saw one of the new volunteers who returned to try the program again, which was an awesome feeling.
Chris: My favorite experiences came while leading youth groups through projects that involved interactive activities. I think many youth volunteers go into projects not thinking they can have much of an impact on the population that they will be serving. So, it is very satisfying to not only see the great appreciation that people have for these youth that volunteer their time, but also the ‘ah-ha’ moment that the youth have when they realize they are making a difference.
What skill/knowledge/practice did you gain during your time at Chicago Cares and how do you think it will support your future career goals?
Jennifer: I would say that one of the great things I learned during my term is how much Chicago has to offer. Before this, my knowledge of Chicago was rather negative and this job gave me the opportunity to connect with many organizations throughout the city and work with wonderful people who truly want to make a difference. I also loved working with youth groups and volunteers of all ages. It was great to see how dedicated kids can be and how much they can change over just a three-hour project. This job has made me appreciate things more in life and to not judge people as quickly as I may have before. It has reminded me of the passion I had in volunteering and working with youth and how much of a difference one person can make.
Adrienne: During my time at Chicago Cares I was very involved with volunteer and volunteer leader recruitment. I was able to attend volunteer fairs, I facilitated a workshop for high school students, and I helped to create blog posts for the Chicago Cares website, which were all valuable experiences. I learned that the positive relationships I have built with volunteers throughout my term helped me to be more effective in recruiting the same volunteers to come back and serve with Chicago Cares again. I believe the skills I have gained in this area will be assets to me in the future.
Chris: Practicing the skill of communicating with people who have different backgrounds and life challenges from my own is something I certainly enjoyed most. I want to work in healthcare. So, I think being able to communicate and build trust with all patients, regardless of their background or situation, is essential to providing the highest quality of care.
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Thank You 2011-2012 AmeriCorps Team!
It’s that time of year again, time to bid farewell to our wonderful AmeriCorps members as they complete their year of service with Chicago Cares. We have loved the opportunity to get to know Chris, Adrienne and Jen. We’ll miss them here at Chicago Cares but we know that they will continue to do great things as they take the next steps in their careers!
Adrienne, Chris and Jen will be sharing their thoughts on what they’ve learned through their year of service on Monday’s blog, but today we wanted to share a little bit about what their service has meant to us here at Chicago Cares.
Chris and Jen worked as part of our Youth in Service team. Here are some reflections from their co-workers.
From Katie:
Jen created 3,471 volunteer slots over her 11 months of service. This was in large part due to her facilitation of 2 Student Service and Leadership programs with 28 students in each at Mather High School. Jen did an amazing job of supporting and managing our programs there. She was also really great about working hard to create introduction and reflection information for her projects that would really engage the students and get them thinking about the issues they were working within.
Chris worked very hard to create some awesome new issue education pieces- he created an interactive piece about the global water crisis that shows students the difference in water resources in a developing country vs. the United States. He also worked to develop the “What’s on my plate? Game” which is a game that shows students the complexity of feeding yourself in America! Each student plays a role- some students have more money and access to transportation while others have less and some have less money AND no access to transportation. Chris also added a great twist to this game in adding in a health component, asking students to not only look at the costs of food, but to also think about what it is they are eating.
One of the best things about this past year of working with Chris and Jen has been watching them both learn to come together and work as a team with Joyce and I. The first few weeks/months were not always easy and figuring out how to work together took perseverance- but both really fought to learn how to help one another and they have both become really great team players!
From Joyce:
Chris did a great job working with community partners to find project models that fit for both us and them. When one of our partners requested that we host an arts and crafts night for their residents, Chris came up with a unique craft idea for project. He was open to trying out new ideas and models and it helped us develop stronger relationships with partners that we have not worked with as much in the past.
Jen put a lot of work into creating a variety of issue education, introduction ideas, and reflection activities for our projects. Her interest in education definitely showed throughout the year as she created new activities to help our youth groups learn and become more passionate about service.
Adrienne spent her time with our Volunteer and Leader Services team, here are some thoughts that they wanted to share.
From Kim:
Adrienne joined Volunteer & Leader Services during our busiest recruitment season. She didn’t hesitate to jump into her projects and share her perspective with us. Adrienne developed a volunteer newsletter for Annual Events Production Assistants in order to bridge the communication gap between volunteers and staff, successfully raising our recruitment and retention numbers by 15%. Adrienne has great ideas and is focused on achieving her goals. We wish her the best.
From Maura:
Adrienne has been at Chicago Cares longer than I have, so I’ve always been lucky enough to have her on the other side of the wall. She’s answered bazillions of questions, blessed me after countless sneezes, and helped me strategize through the busiest of times, but the greatest comfort has probably been just knowing that she has always been there.
I recently ran across an email I got from her on the afternoon of my very first day at Chicago Cares that she probably has no recollection of even sending. It simply says, “Hello, Happy First Day!” and it came at a time that I was so overwhelmed, that I saved it but had almost no recollection of it myself – almost. My life as a Chicago Cares staffer flashed backwards in an instant, and I remember feeling so grateful that first afternoon for such a kind gesture and delightful neighbor. Of course, I’m even happier now for all the growth that has happened for us and for our team since then. And though the other side of the wall and VLS soon won’t be the same, I truly thank Adrienne and wish her the greatest success with school and all of her future endeavors.
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Celebrating Service with AmeriCorps
Every year, thousands of Americans commit to serving our country through volunteerism and living a year of poverty. They are AmeriCorps. These dedicated service members are men and women, young and old, coming from all different backgrounds. They serve behind the scenes and on the front lines in the battle against poverty in the United States.
While the 1930’s saw the creation of National Service Corps with the initiation of Civilian Conservation Corps, shortly followed by AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America), NCCC (National Civilian Community Corps) and Senior Corps in the 1960’s; AmeriCorps programs were not nationally recognized until President Bill Clinton signed the National and Community Service Trust Act in September of 1993.
The bill established the Corporation for National and Community Service as the umbrella for all AmeriCorps programs, which now include: Learn and Serve, AmeriCorps National Direct, AmeriCorps VISTA, AmeriCorps NCCC, YCC (Youth Conservation Corps), and SeniorCorps. One year later, the first class of AmeriCorps volunteers were sworn in. 20,000 individuals would be dedicating a year of national service in more than 1,000 communities nationwide. More than 15 years later, the AmeriCorps programs swear in more than 85,000 volunteers every year to serve and partner with nearly 2,000 community and nonprofit organizations.
AmeriCorps members serve in a capacity that allows nonprofit organizations to reach more members of the community through the services they offer. Chicago Cares’ AmeriCorps members serve in a variety of roles that enhance the day-to-day operations of the organization, particularly in the areas of Youth in Service and Volunteer and Leader Services.
AmeriCorps Week recognizes those who have dedicated their lives to service through the variety of AmeriCorps programs offered through the Corporation for National and Community Service. We’re so grateful for our Chicago Cares AmeriCorps members, Adrienne, Chris and Jennifer; they each bring unique skills and talents to our organization and we know that they will continue to do great things after their service year has ended!
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Meet Our New AmeriCorps: Christopher Konfirst
Chicago Cares is happy to welcome three new HandsOn AmeriCorps members for their 2011-2012 year of service. Today we’re talking to Christopher Konfirst, who is working with our Youth in Service program.
Have you participated in any other AmeriCorps programs?
No, this is my first time with AmeriCorps
What drew you to Chicago Cares specifically?
I was drawn to the idea of working with youth and having a hand in instilling in them the importance of service to their community. I also thought that working with Chicago Cares would give me an opportunity to learn more about the various current issues that people within a community may face and what type of action is being taken to improve community outlooks.
Tell us about your favorite part of AmeriCorps so far.
My favorite part about AmeriCorps so far has been meeting many new people and learning about the non-profit and service fields.
What are you most excited about working on before your service year ends?
I’m looking forward to working on creating new projects and opportunities for youth to learn and serve their community.
What skills would you like to learn and take with you to your next job?
I would like to learn more about the many issues people in a community may face, the effects that these issues have on the community and individuals, and what types of things have traditionally been done to control and prevent them.
What are you plans for after AmeriCorps?
I plan to go to medical school.
Meet Our New AmeriCorps: Adrienne Cherry
Chicago Cares is happy to welcome three new HandsOn AmeriCorps members for their 2011-2012 year of service. Today we’re talking to Adrienne Cherry, who is working with our Volunteer and Leader Services program.
How did you hear about AmeriCorps and what made you decide to do a service year?
I have two friends who have done a service year with AmeriCorps programs in Texas and in Iowa, and they both had really positive experiences that they shared with me. Through my own work and service experiences, I have found that the best way to learn about myself and discover what my personal aspirations are, is to serve the community in a genuine way. AmeriCorps has given me the opportunity to serve the community and gain skills that will help me as I continue on to graduate school and my career.
Have you participated in any other AmeriCorps programs?
This is my first experience participating in an AmeriCorps program.
What drew you to Chicago Cares specifically?
I have experience working with and mentoring youth from communities that are similar to the ones served by Chicago Cares, and I was eager to take the opportunity to find an organization where I could continue to serve and make an impact. After learning about the goals of this organization and the passion of the people who work here, I was excited to join the team!
Tell us about your favorite part of AmeriCorps so far.
So far my favorite part of AmeriCorps has been being able to work in Chicago, which is one of my favorite cities! Another great aspect of AmeriCorps has been getting to meet new people and volunteers who work with Chicago Cares.
What are you most excited about working on before your service year ends?
I am looking forward to working with the staff on large events like Celebration of Service and Serve-a-thon. I am also looking forward to getting involved as a volunteer with some of the Chicago Cares ongoing programs so that I can gain experience working directly with adults and youth in the communities we serve.
What skills would you like to learn and take with you to your next job?
I would like to improve upon my abilities to relate to and communicate with people to motivate them to pursue their goals and get engaged in serving their communities. I plan to continue focusing on people and relationships in my career, so I think these skills will allow me to become a stronger leader in the future.
What are you plans for after AmeriCorps?
After my year of service, I plan to attend graduate school in Psychology. My goals are to pursue a career in counseling youth and young adults and remain involved in community service and outreach.
Meet Our New AmeriCorps: Jennifer Walker
Chicago Cares is happy to welcome three new HandsOn AmeriCorps members for their 2011-2012 year of service. Today we’re talking to Jennifer Walker, who is working with our Youth in Service program.
What made you decide to do a service year?
I heard about AmeriCorps through a college friend. I was really interested in service since I was in a co-ed service fraternity in college, and participating in community service was something I wanted to keep in my life. When I found out that not only could I give a year of service, but I could also work with youth, I knew that joining AmeriCorps was the right path for me.
Have you participated in any other AmeriCorps programs?
I have not. This is my first year in AmeriCorps.
Why did you choose Chicago Cares?
When I first heard about Chicago Cares I didn’t know much about it. As I did more research I liked the great reputation that Chicago Cares has. I also really liked what I heard about the Youth in Service Department. I went to college to be a teacher, so anything that is related to youth is a great opportunity for me!
Tell us about your favorite part of AmeriCorps so far.
So far my favorite part is seeing how dedicated everyone is to service. It is great to see a wonderful group of people that truly enjoy helping others and making a difference in their community.
What are you most excited about working on before your service year ends?
I am really excited to work with Chicago Public Schools. I miss being in the classroom sometimes and working with CPS students will be a great way for me to keep being involved. I am also excited to learn more about Chicago Cares and get more involved. There is so much that this organization does, I would love to see what else is out there.
What skills would you like to learn and take with you to your next job?
I hope to learn more about the issue areas of Chicago and help people overcome the stereotypes that they may have of the communities. I also would love to learn how to better educate youth about these issue areas and use the knowledge that I have obtained for future endeavors.
What are you plans for after AmeriCorps?
After AmeriCorps I hope to continue working for a nonprofit organization and work with youth or use my degree and become a Social Studies teacher.
The Secret to Our Success
This week, we’re proud to celebrate the 5th Annual AmeriCorps Week. This is the perfect opportunity for AmeriCorps members, alums, grantees, program partners, and friends to demonstrate AmeriCorps’ impact on critical issues, bring more Americans into service, and thank the community partners who make AmeriCorps possible.
At Chicago Cares, AmeriCorps week reminds us to take the time to thank our current AmeriCorps members, while also providing the opportunity for many of our staff to reminisce about their own past service.
Today, we want to highlight the work of our current HandsOn AmeriCorps members and share with you why their service is so important to the work of Chicago Cares.
Claire Dooms and Lyzeth Mondragon are both HandsOn AmeriCorps members on our Volunteer and Leader Services (VLS) team. VLS is dedicated to providing all volunteers with transformational experiences each time they engage with Chicago Cares. Claire meets this goal by focusing on Leader Services. From initial leader recruitment, through the training process, to networking socials; Claire works hard to make sure that we have competent and content volunteer leaders for over 215 monthly programs.
If you’re a volunteer with Chicago Cares, then you have probably seen Lyzeth in action. Often serving as a first point of contact for our volunteers, Lyzeth oversees our welcome emails and works on retail outreach. If you forget your login information, need to verify your volunteer hours or want to receive news from our Hot Projects list; Lyzeth is here to assist you.
Katie Barthelow and Angelika Lewis are both HandsOn AmeriCorps members with our Youth in Service (YIS) team. YIS believes that by educating youth on social issues, engaging them in meaningful service and empowering them to be agents of change, we are fostering a new generation of leaders grounded in the ethic of community involvement.
Being on the YIS team, you may find yourself doing a site visit for a new project, buying the groceries to cook breakfast for 100 people, or writing thank you notes to students who took the time to serve. Whether it’s a hands-on renovation project, or an opportunity to engage in relationships with seniors or others in need of a friend; Katie and Angelika provide the youth of Chicago a unique opportunity to make a difference in their community while also taking the time to reflect on how service has made an impact on each student personally.
As you can see, AmeriCorps members aren’t just a nice addition to Chicago Cares, they are a necessity! And while we appreciate their hard work and dedication to fostering the ethic of volunteerism, what we love most is that they each bring a piece of themselves to our organization. Claire, Lyzeth, Katie and Angelika remind us every day that working with Chicago-area volunteers and students is a privilege that none of us should take for granted. Their passion for service is inspiring and we are so proud that they have chosen to call Chicago Cares, home.
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )AmeriCorps Journal: Erik Rosen
Daily Service
Service has taught me that as different as we all are, we’re also very much the same. I say ‘taught’ in a reflexive sense, because this transformation crept upon me unnoticed. At a service project or outside a service project, people matter and people make the difference—all day, every day. Service has not only changed my life, but my lifestyle. And as much as your serve too, you may realize the same.
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