AmeriCorps looking for qualified members

As part of the AmeriCorps Program, Doriann Libunao helped fourth graders improve their reading skills. But, Doriann said, the children taught her some things as well.

“It’s like you learn from them and they learn from you,” she said.

Libunao, who graduated from Saipan Southern High School in May, said during her time as a volunteer, she improved her self-esteem and bonded with the younger students.

The first day “the kids looked at me and I got scared,” she said “But then, when I was gone for a day, they would ask where I was.”

As an AmeriCorps Program member, Libunao is part of the Corporation for National and Community Service. Members are paid a monthly stipend, and after the successful completion of 900 hours of community service, they are eligible for an Education Award worth $2,362.50.

Bonitalyn Babauta, who also graduated in May from Saipan Southern High School, said she “loved” teaching first graders.

“I’m just glad that I did something that made a difference in someone’s life,” she said.

CNMI/PSS AmeriCorps Program Director Geri Willis said the program not only helps members, it benefits the community as a whole. “It helps them in the future,” she said. “They’re making a huge difference.”

Many volunteers choose to go into public service later on, Willis said.

Members receive specialized training in Infant/Child CPR, building relationships with children, child growth and development, learning styles , and reading comprehension, among other training skills, before they head into the classrooms.

Students can now begin applying for the program.

Selection criteria:

* Application-Obtain from school principal or AmeriCorps office

* Copy of high school transcript stating that you have at least a 2.5 overall GPA on a 4.0 scale

* At least 17 years old to be a member. Anyone can be an AmeriCorps volunteer. Members must show proof of U.S. citizenship, U.S. National, or lawful permanent resident of the U.S. Individuals in the U.S. with a work, student or tourist Visa are not eligible to be a member.

* Excellent attendance record from high school

* Two references with one being from a teacher

* Parent recommendation form

* One to two page essay on, “Why I want to become a teacher”

* Police clearance (due after selected)

* Health clearance (due after selected)

* Insurance liability coverage/release of liability letter (due after selected) [B][I](Kristi Eaton)[/I][/B]