Why Long-Term Service Makes Sense:
A commitment to a year of full-time service comes with a ton of practical and important advantages.
A view into the world of young adults shows again and again that you are looking for MEANINGFUL ADVENTURE. The CCSC can provide that by giving you the opportunity to jump into something unique and exciting, while providing needed service to those who are truly in need.
On a very practical level (this is the part you want to share with your parents!) the CCSC provides you with guaranteed, worthwhile, and REAL WORK EXPERIENCE. CCSC placement positions are more than typical entry-level jobs. You will receive valuable training to successfully contribute to a team of dedicated employees within the workforce, while often creating or directing projects that require an ample amount of responsibility. Not only is this year a great opportunity to network on the local and state level; it is also a great selling point when applying to graduate school or a new job.
The CCSC works in conjunction with AmeriCorps, a national service program. So, in addition to having your health insurance, food, personal, transportation, and housing expenses covered, you will be eligible for a $4700 AMERICORPS EDUCATIONAL AWARD to pay off past educational loans or to use for future studies.
"What exactly am I going to do with this degree?" The CCSC is a great way to get some real experience to HELP POINT YOU IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION FOR YOUR NEXT PROFESSIONAL STEP. Some of our volunteers have wondered about the type of graduate degree they'd like to pursue. Working at an agency that, for instance, gives them a taste of social work, law, public health, and medicine gives them the chance to try this work on and see what feels right. CCSC Advisory Committee members work in all types of professions and often meet with the CCSC Volunteers to share their own experiences and offer support in the decision-making process. Graduate school is expensive! Don't you want to make sure that you're headed in the correct direction for you?
CCSC Volunteers live with one another in community. There is great SUPPORT in that as they attempt to deal with what they see each day at their placements. It is comforting to return home to individuals who "get it" and who want to share in the struggles and laughter of your day. Community also provides FUN AND CELEBRATION with individuals who share your values of service and who are passionate about social justice, simplicity and their faith. This mutual commitment puts the "real" into the "Real World."
Why Not?
There are real reasons that individuals hesitate to take this commitment on. You may be worried about finances. Perhaps you're concerned that this will set you back a year by interfering with your future goals. Or maybe your parents will think this is a crazy idea. All of our volunteers have dealt with these concerns...so, ask us about it! You have the option to speak to any of our current members or staff to talk through some of these understandable concerns and how we have dealt with them. Make sure to check out the "For Parents" and "The Seed Grows" parts of this website for some other answers to those questions.