Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: December 17, 2010
Contact:
Virginia State Parks seek AmeriCorps participants for 2011
(RICHMOND, Va.) – Officials at the award-winning Virginia State Parks are seeking applicants to serve as AmeriCorps members in state parks across Virginia from April through September 2011.
Members will serve as park interpreters and present nature and cultural programs to park gusts. AmeriCorps members will also study interpretation techniques, learn about stewardship ethics and help visitors connect to natural and cultural resources. The project will add 34 interpreters to the state park system.
AmeriCorps members will receive a living allowance and will be eligible for an education award at the end of their term of service.
For detailed information and opportunities, visit www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/ameri-corps or contact program director Cyndi Juarez, at cynthia.juarez@dcr.virginia.gov.
The Virginia State Parks AmeriCorps Interpretive Project is funded by a $116,315 grant from the Corporation for National and Community Service. Virginia State Parks, operated by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, is providing initial in-kind and cash match contributions.
The Corporation for National and Community Service provides funds to local and national organizations and agencies committed to using national service to address critical community needs in education, public safety, health and the environment.
AmeriCorps members receive a modest living allowance, student-loan forbearance and health coverage. After successfully completing their term of service, they receive an AmeriCorps Education Award of about $2,350. The award can be used to pay off qualified student loans or to finance college, graduate school or vocational training at eligible institutions.
AmeriCorps was created when President Bill Clinton signed the National and Community Service Trust Act in 1993. Designed to meet public needs related to education, health, public safety and environmental awareness, the program has helped thousands of individuals and communities.
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