The Choice Program at UMBC provides mentoring and advocacy services to young people–primarily Black and Latinx– throughout central Maryland. We utilize a community-based, family-centered approach in order to promote quality outcomes for young people and families. We engage in a collaborative process of service: where young people set goals for themselves and are held accountable by supportive adults along the way. Our approach to youth development is grounded in applied critical race theory and culturally responsive, trauma-informed, restorative practices. We strive to be an anti-racist organization grounded in several core values: holistic development, the belief in humans, dismantling hierarchies, and youth-centeredness.
Overview
The Choice Program is excited to offer AmeriCorps Member Mentor positions (100- or 300-hour contracts) as a meaningful pathway into service and careers in human services. The Choice Program serves as an AmeriCorps placement site through the Governor’s Office of Service and Volunteerism.
Service sites are located across central Maryland, including Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Anne Arundel County, and Harford County. AmeriCorps members provide team-based support to youth, families, and staff on one of three teams: Intensive Advocacy, Jobs & Education, or Personnel & Staffing.
Responsibilities include in-person mentorship for program participants, activity planning and facilitation for youth and staff events, and support on special projects. AmeriCorps members are directly supervised by the Personnel & Staffing team and are encouraged to foster a positive, collaborative environment—one that promotes their personal growth while advancing the mission of The Choice Program.
Key Responsibilities
Youth Engagement & Support
- Serve as a positive role model for program youth
- Assist Intensive Advocacy and Jobs & Education teams with transporting youth to events and activities
- Conduct visits with youth at home, school, or in the community
- Support the creation and facilitation of youth activities that align with SMART goals (educational, vocational, recreational, etc.)
- Participate in annual activities and events (e.g., Art Rysing, Fall Fest, etc.)
Program Support & Collaboration
- Support one or more Choice teams with youth services and projects
- Research and recommend community resources to support youth and families
- Provide evening services regularly and weekend services at least once per month
- Meet weekly (or as needed) with direct supervisor for guidance and feedback
- Foster a safe, respectful, and positive environment for youth, families, and staff
Documentation & Compliance
- Accurately document all interactions with youth and family members
- Complete incident reports in accordance with program protocol
- Maintain program equipment (cell phones, computers, etc.)
- Complete and submit timesheets in the AmeriCorps timekeeping portal
- Track mileage and expenses; submit reimbursement requests bi-weekly
- Maintain service calendars on a weekly/monthly basis
- Adhere to Choice confidentiality policies and program procedures
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
- High School diploma or GED
- 17 years or older
- Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. National, or Lawful Permanent Resident
- Valid Driver’s License
- At least 6 months of experience working with youth (formal or informal)
Preferred Qualifications
- Access to a vehicle where you are on the insurance
- Familiar with Google Suites
Living Allowance Stipend
Living allowance is dependent on term of service selected.
- 300 service hours will receive a living allowance of $7,854
- 100 service hours will receive a living allowance of $2,244
Segal Education Award
Upon successful completion of term of service, AmeriCorps members are eligible to receive a Segal Education Award. The award amount is dependent on term of service and service year.
- Completion of 300 service hours will receive an education award of $1,565.08
- Completion of 100 service hours will receive an education award of $416.17
