Access AmeriCorps

This project is funded by the Corporation for National Service (CNS) to provide training and technical assistance to state commissions on volunteerism, AmeriCorps program directors, and Corporation staff. Access AmeriCorps provides up to date, practical information on the inclusion of people with disabilities in AmeriCorps programs. Training and technical assistance is provided through telephone and e-mail correspondence, on site training, and materials distribution. AmeriCorps Members with disabilities are an integral part of "getting things done" in a variety of service programs throughout the country. Access AmeriCorps is working to give more individuals with disabilities the opportunity to serve in these community changing programs.

The UCP Access AmeriCorps grant with the Corporation for National Service ran through September 2001. From 1995 to 2001, UCP worked with CNS to provide training and technical assistance around the inclusion of people with disabilities as AmeriCorps members. In doing so, UCP coordinated a national conference in 2000, developed new training materials and conducted several training sessions in cities across the country.

Here are some materials developed under the grant. We hope they will continue to be useful.

Sample Training Materials

• Interaction Tips
• Disseminating Information and the Inclusive Application Process
• Targeting Recruits with Disabilities
• Program Accessibility and Inclusion
• The Access AmeriCorps Checklist: Determining Accessibility in Your AmeriCorps Programs and Facilities
• Follow-up Information for Checklist
  • Follow-up Section I: Recruitment/Accommodation Practices
  • Follow-up Section II: General Non-Discrimination Obligations
  • Follow-up Section III: Communications Accessibility
  • Follow-up Section IV: Existing Facilities

FAQs

• Writing a State Disability Plan
• Accessing Disability Funds
• Making Accommodations
• Hiring a Disability Consultant

LINKS

The Corporation for National Service
Established in 1993, the Corporation for National Service engages more than a million Americans each year in service to their communities - helping to solve community problems.

National Service Resource Center (NSRC)
A project of Education, Training, Research Associates (ETR), NSRC's mission is to act as a central point for sharing training and technical assistance information and resources with Corporation-funded programs, State Commissions, other AmeriCorps training and technical assistance providers, and the Corporation.

SERVEnet
Another great source for volunteer opportunities! Through SERVEnet, users can enter their zip code, city, state, skills, interests, and availability and be matched with organizations needing help.

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