How are Operating Sites Chosen?

An NCLR operating site must meet both practical and mission-based selection criteria. Sites must leverage their resources and invest strategically in order to create effective and sustainable programs in their communities.

In order to be eligible for participation, an operating site must be an affiliate of NCLR in good standing. The site must have sufficient staff and infrastructure to manage the AmeriCorps program. NCLR requires that the site have previous experience managing similar government programs. AmeriCorps helps make federal funds more responsive to state and local needs, but it is inherent upon operating sites to also contribute financially to the success of the program. For that reason, sites must have adequate match funds to support the AmeriCorps program.

Currently, NCLR’s AmeriCorps program is focused on tutoring and job skills training. In selecting the 2004-2005 operating sites NCLR looked for affiliates with during- and after-school educational programs and/or career resource centers or One-Stop Centers where AmeriCorps members provide direct service. Most importantly, NCLR seeks affiliates that can help increase the amount of volunteering and civic engagement in our country, while strengthening the capacity of nonprofit organizations.

In the future, we plan to expand our program focus beyond education and job skills training. Depending on the availability of the funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service in the next fiscal year, NCLR hopes to engage in other fields such as health and community development. If you are an NCLR affiliate and are interested in participating in the AmeriCorps program, please contact Gerry Schafer. The 2005-2006 program has already begun. Please stay posted for 2006-2007 deadlines.

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