Arkansas LeaderCorps

Arkansas LeaderCorps is a statewide body of AmeriCorps members, representing AmeriCorps Arkansas programs and other streams of service, working together to strengthen the national service movement in Arkansas. LeaderCorps consists of a representative member from each AmeriCorps Arkansas Program and representatives from AmeriCorps VISTA, National Direct, and AmeriCorps Seniors, and AmeriCorps Alumni.

Goals of LeaderCorps

• Provide a forum for members to network, interact, and learn about other programs in the state
• Raise awareness of AmeriCorps in Arkansas as a meaningful and impactful service opportunity
• Promote involvement and collaboration of programs in statewide events such as AmeriCorps Week, and National Volunteer Week, National Days of Service
• Expand leadership and professional development opportunities for AmeriCorps Members
• Support and enable AmeriCorps Members to better serve their communities
• Encourage continued involvement of AmeriCorps Members and Alumni in the national service movement

Membership

LeaderCorps consists of a representative member from each AmeriCorps Arkansas Program and representatives from VISTA, National Direct, Senior Corps, and AmeriCorps Alumni

Each AmeriCorps Program Director is responsible for selecting one representative for LeaderCorps on an annual basis. Members selected to serve on LeaderCorps must be willing and able to:

• Serve as ambassadors for national service in Arkansas
• Participate in in-person meetings, conference calls, and AmeriCorps state-wide events (reliable transportation is required for in-person meetings and statewide events).
• Act as a liaison, sharing updates and information between AmeriCorps programs and EngageAR on a regular basis.
• Follow through on deadlines as establish by LeaderCorps
• Maintain communication with other LeaderCorps members outside of scheduled meeting time.
• Promote and participate in national days of service, such as MLK, Jr. Day of Service, 9/11 Days of Service and Remembrance, Global Youth Service Day, and Family Volunteer Day

FAQs 

How are members selected to participate in LeaderCorps?

Each year, AmeriCorps program directors have the opportunity to nominate an AmeriCorps member to participate in LeaderCorps. Nominations are typically solicited in October. Program Directors may personally identify a member with leadership potential and interest, or fellow AmeriCorps members can nominate and select their representative through an election process. The LeaderCorps Program runs from October-June of each year.

Why should my program have a LeaderCorps representative?

Arkansas LeaderCorps is based on a successful model from other state commissions. There is evidence that these types of leadership and member voice activities can help increase member recruitment, retention, and satisfaction, in addition to building collaboration among programs and a stronger connection to the national service movement. In addition to expanded leadership and professional development opportunities, LeaderCorps members serve as a liaison between EngageAR and your AmeriCorps Program.

Do members receive hours for their LeaderCorps service?

Yes, all LeaderCorps members can receive training hours for the time spent in member training and meetings. Travel time will be granted in accordance with each program's normal policy. Members may receive up to 10 hours per month for their leadership team responsibilities outside of general LeaderCorps meetings and conference calls. LeaderCorps activities outside of the required monthly meetings and conference calls should not supersede regularly scheduled AmeriCorps Program Responsibilities.

How will EngageAR support LeaderCorps?

EngageAR will support LeaderCorps by: 

• Securing meeting times/spaces
• Coordinating training and member development opportunities
• Distributing minutes, memos, agendas, and newsletters
• Assisting LeaderCorps representatives with project planning and implementation
• Updating guidelines and membership rosters
• Promoting and recognizing the LeaderCorps accomplishments
• Providing meals and mileage reimbursement for in-person meetings 

Who should I contact with questions?

You may reach out to Ashley Rietschier  at ashley.rietschier@adhe.edu or 501-371-2022

LeaderCorps Stories