Member Activities

Service Activities

The service activities that members provide during their term of service vary depending on the site where they serve. Examples of some of the services members provide are: teaching health education workshops on topics such as diabetes, nutrition, smoking cessation and asthma; providing oral health education and dental sealants to low-income children; enrolling patients in health insurance and pharmacy medication assistance programs; promoting and coordinating health screenings and immunization campaigns; assisting marginalized populations at free/sliding scale clinics; and recruiting volunteers. Link to Position Descriptions

Pre-Service Orientation (PSO)

Pre-service orientation is held during the first two weeks of the program year. It prepares members for their AmeriCorps year of service by providing basic knowledge about the history of AmeriCorps and the NHC, and training in fundamental skills such as effective communication, teambuilding, citizenship, group dynamics, and organizational culture. PSO is the time when members begin to develop the friendships that will last throughout the year and beyond.

Training

Members receive training on a regular basis throughout the year through the PgHC and their host sites. Members come together monthly for training that provides them with opportunities for personal and professional development both to ensure successful completion of a year with the Corps and preparation for future goals. Members present on a health-related topic of their choice and are encouraged to suggest topics/presenters for training throughout their term of service. The eleven NHC Member Core Competencies covered during the year include:

Community Health Advocacy; Patient/Client Relations; Professionalism; Cultural Competency; Civic Engagement; Health Outreach; Health Education; Emergency/Disaster Preparedness; Program Development, Implementation, and Evaluation; Case Management; and Public Health Knowledge

Member Meetings

Members meet to share experiences and reflect on their service, to plan service projects, complete committee assignments, and continue building an esprit de corps. Attendance at meetings is mandatory for all members. There is usually time at each training session to share challenges and successes with the entire Corps. Through these discussions, members share their knowledge and strengths as they become more of a resource to each other and the sites where they serve.

Local Service Projects

Throughout the year, members participate in service projects independent of their sites in order to increase their exposure to health needs and services and to promote National Service. It is also an opportunity to collaborate with other local AmeriCorps members, community sites, and volunteers to highlight the impact of service and ensure a commitment to a lifetime of service.

Administrative Responsibilities

All members have administrative duties related to their service including keeping an accurate record of hours served, services provided, workshops performed, and volunteers recruited for AmeriCorps documentation. Sites also require the recording of data to ensure appropriate service is provided.

Recruiting Volunteers

Recruiting volunteers is an element of all AmeriCorps programs, because developing a cadre of volunteers helps programs and communities sustain services after the program ends. While some members serve at sites where volunteer recruitment is the primary activity, all members are expected to recruit volunteers while in service.

Member Committees

Members serve on one or more committees during their term of service. Doing so helps members develop a leadership role within the group, enhance their professional skills, and expand their networking skills. Examples of committees include the Training Committee, Service Project Committee, Newsletter Committee, and Social Committee.

Retreat

The member retreat occurs roughly halfway through the service year. It is a time of rest, relaxation, reflection, and recharge. Retreats are also a way to further develop a team spirit.

Recognition Ceremony

The member Recognition Ceremony caps off the program year and generally consists or a luncheon, with appreciation speeches, member and staff reflection, awarding of certificates, and the celebration of a successful year of service.