Skip To Content

Menu

AmeriCorps

Davenport AmeriCorps Logo 

Davenport AmeriCorps Program

WHAT IS AMERICORPS?

AmeriCorps, founded in 1993 by the National and Community Service Trust Act and signed by President Bill Clinton, is a federal agency and network of national service programs in the United States where individuals commit their time to work on community service projects. AmeriCorps programs connect over 70,000 Americans each year in service to meet community needs in education, public safety, health and homeland security. AmeriCorps members serve more than 2,000 non-profits, public agencies, and community organizations across the country.

Mission Statement: To improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic engagement through service and volunteering.

4 Types of AmeriCorps Programs
1. AmeriCorps State and National
o Partners with nonprofits, schools, and public agencies.
o Members work on education, disaster response, public health, and more.
o Service terms can vary in level of commitment ranging from 1700 hours to 300 hours over a year. 
2. AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America)
o Focuses on alleviating poverty.
o Members serve in capacity-building roles—such as developing programs or managing volunteers.
o Typically involves working in nonprofits or public agencies.
3. AmeriCorps NCCC (National Civilian Community Corps)
o A team-based, residential program for 18–26-year-olds.
o Members travel together on short-term projects around the U.S., often related to disaster relief, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship.
4. AmeriCorps Seniors
o For adults 55 and older.
o Includes Foster Grandparents, RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program), and Senior Companions.
Benefits of Serving in AmeriCorps
  • Living stipend (modest)
  •  Segal AmeriCorps Education Award (used to pay for college or student loans)
  •  Loan forbearance
  •  Professional development
  •  Alumni network
  •  Health insurance (in some programs)
  •  Childcare assistance (if eligible)
Who Can Serve
  • U.S. citizens, nationals, or lawful permanent residents
  • 17 years or older (varies by program)
  • No specific degree or background required—training is usually provided
Davenport AMericorps Program

The City of Davenport program, established in 2011, aims to foster civic engagement and provide mentorship and support for K-12 students during out-of-school time, ultimately reducing dropout rates and aiding in positive youth development. The program strives to be a catalyst for positive change within the city's educational system and community by empowering youth and fostering a sense of civic responsibility.  Specifically, the program provides dedicated time for AmeriCorps members to work with and mentor Davenport youth during their out of school time and support youths' emotional, academic, and social development. 

  • Focus on Youth: The program directly addresses the needs of Davenport's K-12 students. 
  • Civic Engagement: AmeriCorps members are tasked with fostering civic engagement among young people. 
  • Mentorship and Support: The program provides valuable mentorship and academic/social support to students. 
  • Community Impact: The program aims to improve the lives of Davenport students and strengthen the community through service. 
Why Serve in Davenport?
  • Give back to your local community
  • Get unique, hands-on experience in the social and human services
  • Receive funding for educational expenses
  • Professional development
  • Networking and fostering connections in the community
  • Build your resume
  • Earn internship credit
  • Explore career opportunities

 

Member Benefits of Service

Living Stipend 
All AmeriCorps members receive a living stipend throughout their service to help cover basic expenses. This stipend ranges from $4,050 to $16,200 depending on how many service hours are required and is divided and paid out as equal bi-weekly direct deposits. 

Education Award 
Upon successful completion of their service term, AmeriCorps members receive a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award, which can be used to pay for qualified student loans or educational expenses at eligible institutions. This award ranges from $1,565 to $5,176 depending on how many service hours are required. 
Student Loan Forbearance
While members are serving in AmeriCorps, they may qualify for forbearance on eligible student loans, which means they can temporarily pause payments without penalty. For more information, please visit: Forbearance Overview

Hands-On Experience and Professional Development 
AmeriCorps is a great opportunity to build your resume, gain transferable skills, and explore new career paths. There are daily training opportunities at AmeriCorps sites, as well as three professional development trainings hosted by the AmeriCorps Program Staff that are scheduled throughout the service term. 

Member Assistance Program (MAP) 
Members have free, confidential access to the Member Assistance Program, which includes: 
Website and mobile app resources & scheduling
Text/chat counseling & coaching
Video counseling & coaching
Medical advocacy
Life coaching
Personal concierge for everyday needs
Work/life resources & referrals
Legal & financial assistance  

Flexibility to Serve in Davenport

The City of Davenport AmeriCorps program places members with local partners such as Davenport Parks and Recreation, Common Chord, and the Putnam Museum and Science Center. Members serve their community through a variety of avenues, including developing youth education activities and mentoring students, creating adaptive community programming, designing STEM learning experiences, and supporting volunteer outreach and community engagement.

AmeriCorps offers flexible, purpose-driven service opportunities that allow individuals to support their community while gaining valuable experience. Members serve in structured roles with defined slot types, each with different service hour commitments and weekly expectations designed to fit a variety of schedules.

Member Service Commitments
Three Quarter Time (TQT):  1200 total hours (approximately 29 hours per week)
Half Time (HT): 900total hours (approximately 22 hours per week)
Reduced Half Time (RHT): 675 total hours (approximately 16 hours per week)
Quarter Time (QT): 450 total hours (approximately 11 hours per week)

The City of Davenport AmeriCorps program welcomes individuals from all walks of life, whether you’re looking to grow, give back, or gain momentum.

It’s a perfect fit for:
College students or recent graduates seeking experience in fields such as education, public service, or nonprofit work
Career changers or individuals returning to the workforce to build skills, make connections, and gain references
Gap year students looking for meaningful, hands-on experience before continuing school
Retirees who want to stay engaged and make a lasting community impact
Parents or caregivers with flexible schedules looking to give back part-time

Whether you are building your resume, discovering a new career path, or simply wanting to make a difference, AmeriCorps has a place for you! 

Who Can Serve in Davenport?

Applicants must: 

Certify that they have or will obtain a high school diploma or GED before the service contract start date
Be 18 years or older at the start of service (no upper age limit)
Pass a National Service Criminal History Check prior to the first day of service
Hold one of the following citizenship statuses: 
o U.S. Citizen
o U.S. National
o Lawful Permanent Resident 

What to Expect During the Application Process
  1. Submit Your Application: Start by filling out our online application form
  2. Phone Screen Request: After reviewing your application, our Program Supervisor will text you to schedule a quick phone screen to learn more about you and answer any questions you may have. 
  3. Phone Screen Interview: This short conversation helps us learn more about your interests and availability. 
  4. Pre-interview Activity: You will complete a short activity to showcase how you think and approach service-related tasks. 
  5. Application Materials Reviewed: Your application, phone screen notes, pre-interview activity, and resume are shared with the site supervisor at your potential service site. 
  6. In-Person Interview: The site supervisor will reach out to schedule a face-to-face interview with you. 
  7. Final Selection: The site supervisor makes their selection and shares it with the Program Supervisor. You’ll be contacted either way to let you know the outcome. 
Ready to Get Started with davenport?

1) Complete the online application form 
2) Email your resume to: [email protected] 

Have questions before applying? Reach out via text or call: (563) 349-0530 or email [email protected]

Davenport YOUTH CORPS Program

The City of Davenport Youth Corps is a community-based, summer months program that engages youth 17-20 in meaningful service opportunities to promote personal growth, civic responsibility, and leadership development. Through structured activities, mentoring, and community projects, Youth Corps members enhance their skills, contribute to local service projects, and foster positive social change. The program focuses on providing participants with the tools to develop academic, social, and emotional competencies while also encouraging collaboration and engagement with their peers and community members. Youth Corps cultivates a sense of responsibility, leadership, and empowerment in the next generation of community leaders.

  • Focus on Youth: The program focuses on the development of its members. 
  • Civic Engagement: Youth Corps members participate in a variety of service projects throughout the Davenport community. 
  • Mentorship and Support: The program provides valuable mentorship and professional/job-based and social support to members. 
  • Community Impact: The program aims to improve the lives of Youth Corps members through skill and knowledge development. 
Youth Corps Member Benefits

Living Stipend 
All AmeriCorps members receive a living stipend throughout their service to help cover basic expenses. This stipend ranges from $4,050 to $16,200 depending on how many service hours are required and is divided and paid out as equal bi-weekly direct deposits. 

Education Award 
Upon successful completion of their service term, AmeriCorps members receive a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award, which can be used to pay for qualified student loans or educational expenses at eligible institutions. This award ranges from $1,565 to $5,176 depending on how many service hours are required. 
Student Loan Forbearance
While members are serving in AmeriCorps, they may qualify for forbearance on eligible student loans, which means they can temporarily pause payments without penalty. For more information, please visit: Forbearance Overview

Hands-On Experience and Professional Development 
AmeriCorps is a great opportunity to build your resume, gain transferable skills, and explore new career paths. There are daily training opportunities at AmeriCorps sites, as well as three professional development trainings hosted by the AmeriCorps Program Staff that are scheduled throughout the service term. 

Member Assistance Program (MAP) 
Members have free, confidential access to the Member Assistance Program, which includes: 
Website and mobile app resources & scheduling
Text/chat counseling & coaching
Video counseling & coaching
Medical advocacy
Life coaching
Personal concierge for everyday needs
Work/life resources & referrals
Legal & financial assistance  

 

Who Can Serve in Youth Corps?

Applicants must: 

Be 17-20 years or older at the start of service
Pass a National Service Criminal History Check prior to the first day of service
Hold one of the following citizenship statuses: 
o U.S. Citizen
o U.S. National
o Lawful Permanent Resident 

What to Expect During the Application Process
  1. Submit Your Application: Start by filling out our online application form available March 2026.
  2. Phone Screen Request: After reviewing your application, our Program Supervisor will text you to schedule a quick phone screen to learn more about you and answer any questions you may have. 
  3. Phone Screen Interview: This short conversation helps us learn more about your interests and availability. 
  4. Pre-interview Activity: You will complete a short activity to showcase how you think and approach service-related tasks. 
  5. Application Materials Reviewed: Your application, phone screen notes, pre-interview activity, and resume are shared with the site supervisor at your potential service site. 
  6. In-Person Interview: The site supervisor will reach out to schedule a face-to-face interview with you. 
  7. Final Selection: The site supervisor makes their selection and shares it with the Program Supervisor. You’ll be contacted either way to let you know the outcome. 
Ready to Get Started with davenport?

1) Complete the online application form available March 2026.
2) Email your resume to: [email protected] 

Have questions before applying? Reach out via text or call: (563) 349-0530 or email [email protected]

                                                         

 

CURRENT AmeriCorps Positions

2025-2026 Program Year Recruitments

TERM OF SERVICE: October 2025 - August 2026

HOST SITE LOCATIONS

Common Chord creates musical experiences that help connect Quad Citizens with each other and build a stronger community where all can thrive. Through prioritizing highlighting local musicians, Common Chord builds an economy and culture that values local talent and creates more opportunities for musicians to build lasting careers.

Youth Music Education & Community Engagement Specialist - facilitates instrument refurbishment and donation program, supports music mentorship program, contributes to communications through writing and graphic design, and attends community music events. 

Davenport Parks and Recreation (DPR) offers a variety of recreation programs throughout the year, including seasonal events, activities, and classes for the entire family. There are several programs under DPR that are host sites for AmeriCorps members to serve at:

DPR Roosevelt Community Center is a multi-purpose facility offering a gym, weight room, community rooms, computer lab, lending library, and a variety of classes and programs. 

Roosevelt Community Center Programmer - plans and implements recreational and educational programs, coordinates community activities, supports outreach efforts, and helps create a welcoming atmosphere for all Roosevelt Community Center visitors.

DPR Davenport Junior Theatre (DJT) strives to build self-confidence and offer creative opportunities by producing accessible theatre for kids by kids. DJT offers dance classes, as well as theatre camps, classes, and workshops year-round, and produces three mainstage productions during the school year.

Youth Arts Engagement & Enrichment Specialist - supports youth participation in Davenport Junior Theatre with classes and camps, enhancing engagement through creative enrichment activities, and contributing to outreach efforts and special events.   

DPR Fairmount Community Center offers a multi-purpose space with a half-court gym, drop-in and after-school programming, and is available for community rental and recreational activities. 

Fairmount Community Center Programmer -  develops and supports recreational and educational programs at the newly opened Fairmount Community Center, assists with community outreach and engagement, manages drop-in and scheduled activities, and contributes to a welcoming environment for all visitors.   

DPR Park Operations is responsible for maintaining and improving the city's parks, facilities, and green spaces to ensure they are clean, safe, and functional for public use and recreation.  

Davenport Park Ambassador - engages with park visitors to promote safe and respectful park use, reports maintenance needs, supports events and volunteer efforts, and helps enhance the overall park experience through positive public interaction.  

DPR Volunteer Management recruits, trains and coordinates volunteer opportunities (one-time and ongoing) for the parks and recreation department.

Volunteer Recruitment & Engagement Coordinator - leads efforts to attract new volunteers, builds relationships with community partners, coordinates volunteer appreciation activities, and promotes ongoing engagement through outreach and events.

Volunteer Systems & Planning Coordinator - manages volunteer databases and scheduling systems, assesses department-wide volunteer needs, streamlines onboarding processes, and develops strategic plans to support long-term volunteer involvement.  

Putnam Museum and Science Center offers unique, immersive, hands-on learning experiences with the goal of educating people of all ages in lasting ways.

Museum Learning & Outreach Specialist - provides educational and enrichment experiences for upper-elementary and middle school youth, implements informal educational opportunities, provides quality customer service, and attends special events at the Putnam throughout the year.

Contact

AmeriCorps General Information
700 W River Drive, Davenport
Davenport, IA 52802
Phone:
563-349-0530
Email:

Contact

Jordan Raso
AmeriCorps Program Manager
Phone:
563-888-3107
Email:

Contact

Christina Williams
AmeriCorps Program Assistant
Phone:
563-888-3116
Email:

Contact

Becca Niles
AmeriCorps Program Director
Phone:
563-888-3084
Email: