INA, Ill. (Aug. 3, 2016) - Rend Lake College students will have the opportunity to give back to their communities once again this year, thanks to a grant for the AmeriCorps program on campus. At the end of July, the Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service announced $15.6 million in grants for AmeriCorps programs across the state, of which RLC will receive $445,034.
For RLC’s 59 AmeriCorps members, the grant funding means they can focus on economic opportunity, education, and environmental stewardship while earning educational awards after their service is completed. Throughout the year, members provide literacy tutoring for pre-K through grade 8 students in local schools.
Margo Wagner, RLC Director of Community and Corporate Education, said while the volunteers are giving back to these communities, they are also expanding on opportunities for themselves.
“AmeriCorps members are gaining experience and improving skills during their service, all while earning money for their collegiate career,†said Wagner. “Rend Lake College is looking forward to helping our students by encouraging them to make a difference in their communities with these volunteer opportunities.â€
RLC is currently seeking more students to get involved with the AmeriCorps program for the 2016-17 academic year. In return for their volunteerism, these students receive a living allowance and an educational award to help finance their future higher education. RLC’s AmeriCorps members work in Alexander, Clinton, Franklin, Hamilton, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Marion, Massac, Perry, Pulaski, Washington, Williamson, and Union counties.
There are currently 32 AmeriCorps programs across the state with approximately 1,600 member positions. According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, over 800,000 individuals have served in AmeriCorps across the country, culminating to one billion hours of service. RLC is one of only six Southern Illinois organizations to receive grant funding this year.
To learn more about RLC’s AmeriCorps program, contact Community and Corporate Education at 618-437-5321, Ext. 1714. For more information on the Serve Illinois, visit www.Serve.Illinois.gov.