Open doors to bright futures

DCPSS seeks AmeriCorps members to work with youth

Douglas County Partners for Student Success is looking for enthusiastic individuals who want to make a difference in the lives of youth and the vitality of a community as a mentor connecting kids to exciting careers and necessary education paths.

DCPSS is hiring AmeriCorps members to serve as Education to Career Navigators, working with youth in the Umpqua Valley to create purposeful plans for their future. The term will run from Aug. 28 to July 31, 2020. Join a growing and dynamic team by applying at: https://tinyurl.com/y5wmu74l.

“We’ve had great success with AmeriCorps members who’ve made meaningful connections with students throughout their service terms here,” said Gwen Soderberg-Chase, DCPSS and Umpqua Valley STEAM Hub director. “Sometimes, for students, connections with mentors can make all the difference in terms of the ability to believe in themselves and focus on a personalized path to success.”

The Education to Career Navigator will support youth exploring experiences that engage them in personalized plans for their future careers and education. The member will work in schools and youth-serving non-profit agencies to engage youth in setting goals for their future that will include career exploration and preparation along with planning for necessary education during and after high school. Career exploration will include virtual and face-to-face field trips, job shadows and internships.

Members will also recruit and coach community volunteers willing to be industry mentors and post-high school education navigators. They will also coach youth to prepare for a May Exhibition of Projects and Plans for Future. A full position description can be found at: https://tinyurl.com/y4k7qner.

Members will receive a $13,992 living allowance paid over the 11-month service term (approx. $1,272 monthly, before taxes), as well as a $6,095 education award upon successful completion of the term of service, which can be used to repay qualified student loans or for further education in an accredited institution of higher learning, vocational or trade schools. The education award is taxed in the year that it is used. Members that are 55 and older may transfer the award to one child or grandchild.

Participants may be eligible for Loan Forbearance & Interest Accrual Repayment on qualified loans (after successful completion of a term of service, AmeriCorps will pay the accrued interest on qualified loans, which is taxable).

For more information, contact Gwen Soderberg-Chase at (541) 440-7848 or gwen.soderberg-chase@umpqua.edu.

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