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AppalCORPS begins Aug. 1

PDT Staff Report

The deadline to apply for AppalCORPS, an AmeriCorps program in Appalachia Ohio, is approaching, according to Marissa Mizer, coordinator of the program.

The program, officially titled AppalCORPS (Combines Our Resources to Promote school Success) operates out of the College of Education's Literacy Center at Ohio University. Members of AppalCORPS serve as full-time reading tutors for students who attend elementary schools in Athens, Belmont, Monroe and Scioto counties.

According to Mizer, applicants selected for interviews will be notified June 1. To apply, applicants should go to https://my.americorps.gov/mp/listing/publicRequestSearch.do, search for AppalCORPS in the Program Name section, click on AppalCORPS link, and complete the application and submit.

The program begins Aug. 1, and ends June 30, 2009.

Mizer said members of AppalCORPS gain experience working with children, schools and community members and provide full-time tutoring in reading, plus organize and implement quarterly service projects to benefit their school and community.

Members receive a living allowance of up to $10,900. After completing 11 months of service - 1,700 hours - members receive an education award of $4,725, which can be used to help pay off student loans or to finance further education, Mizer said. Members also receive health insurance and childcare benefits.

To apply, applicants must be at least 17, and have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED, have a desire for community service, be available to work full-time from Aug. 1, 2008, to June 30, 2009, and have reliable transportation.

For more information, contact Mizer at (740) 593-4428 or e-mail her at mizerm@ohio.edu.