AmeriCorps is your moment to take the path less traveled, to break the status quo, to stop talking about the problem and be the solution.
What is AmeriCorps?
AmeriCorps State and National supports a wide range of local service programs that engage thousands of Americans in intensive community service each year. This program is a vital resource to the Greer Relief and the Greater Greer Community. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn more about about successes and challenges #hereingreer.
The ability for low-wage earners to access benefits, save money toward building assets and receive the necessary tax credits are all strategies for helping people achieve financial independence. AmeriCorps Upstate seeks to address the current economic hardships of four counties in South Carolina by leveraging the unique strengths of the United Way system and community partners in order to make a difference in the lives of people.
The United Way partners and host sites that make up this collaborative understand the vital need for partnering, sharing best practices, leveraging resources, and getting measurable results. It is with that understanding that the collaborative has come together and committed itself to the AmeriCorps program, knowing that no one agency or program can do this most challenging work on its own.
Our AmeriCorps members will leverage an additional 1,000 volunteers to provide financial stability services to low-income residents in Greenville, Pickens, Anderson and Laurens counties.
Want to Join AmeriCorps?
To learn more about the Upstate AmeriCorps program visit https://www.unitedwaygc.org/americorps-upstate or contact Abby Blakely at ablakely@unitedwaygc.org.
Here’s how Bryce’s service year has impacted him:
“I committed to a year of service because I wanted to make a positive impact in our community through the non-profit sector. My AmeriCorps year at Greer Relief has not disappointed. First, it has given me a community of warm, caring people at Greer Relief and through AmeriCorps Upstate. This community has pushed me to grow and given me hope when challenges have arisen. Second, it has taught me how to work with people. I have served close to 1,000 individuals at this point, either through financial assistance, case management, or income tax assistance. Along the way, I’ve learned how to engage with and care for others. Finally, it has reinforced my dreams of working in the public sphere. I go to bed with the knowledge that I am proud of the work I have done, and I wake up hopeful to go to work. I am glad I made the decision to serve through AmeriCorps, and I would do it again in a heartbeat.”
Here’s how Jennifer’s service year has impacted her:
“I had very similar upbringing to many of the neighbors we help, and it made me grow up fast. I became a cold, distant person. My time in the military made my view very black and white with no grey area what so ever. The Greer Relief staff and our neighbors have made me a much nicer and better person as a whole. I have learned to not only be empathetic but sympathetic, and be the kind of person people feel comfortable talking to and asking for help. I never realized how much impact one person could have on someone’s life until I saw Yvonne, our Neighbor Advocate (and my supervisor), help our neighbors in need. That is something I will take with me and strive to be as I continue my career path.”