AmeriCorps Connections

🚀 New Episode! The Legacy & Future of AmeriCorps with Bill Basl 🎙️
Join us for an incredible conversation with AmeriCorps legend Bill Basl, a VISTA alum from 1970 and a pioneer of national service. Bill has shaped service programs at every level—from founding the Washington Service Corps & Veterans Corps to serving as Director of AmeriCorps at the White House.
In this episode, we explore:
✅ The early days of VISTA & lessons from the 1970s
✅ The birth of AmeriCorps & the power of service
✅ How national service can unite communities & inspire the next generation
✅ The vision behind the National Museum & Center for Service
Bill’s journey is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and impact. Whether you’re an AmeriCorps alum, a service enthusiast, or just curious about the power of civic engagement—this episode is for you!
📌 Learn more about the National Museum & Center for Service: https://www.nmcfs.org/
There is a current installation at the DC Library - https://www.dclibrary.org/service-everywhere-dc
Exhibit Dates and Locations:
January 9—March 2025: Lamond-Riggs Neighborhood Library
April 1—June 30, 2025: MLK Library

🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations!
#americorps #americorpsalumni  #nationalservice  #podcast  #communityengagement  #CivicLeadership #volunteerism

🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝
Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

{supporters}

🌍 From AmeriCorps to Global Change: How Service Transformed Dimer’s Life & Community 🌱🎙️
📢 In This Episode: We’re wrapping up our special series with IPSL Global Engagement by diving into an inspiring conversation with Dimer Castro, a three-time AmeriCorps alum who has turned his passion for agriculture and service into a global impact.

🌎 From AmeriCorps VISTA to State & National, Dimer’s journey took him from building sustainable farms in Puerto Rico to revitalizing a rural school in Colombia, carrying on his grandfather’s legacy. His story highlights the power of national service, community engagement, and IPSL’s unique global education programs.

💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ How AmeriCorps VISTA and State/National shaped Dimer’s leadership in sustainable farming.
✅ The role of IPSL Global Engagement in supporting his vision to rebuild his childhood school.
✅ The impact of service-learning and international collaboration.
✅ Why investing in communities—both local and global—leads to lasting change.
Learn more about Plenitude 

🎧 Watch now on You Tube and subscribe for more AmeriCorps alumni stories!

Learn how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to lifelong memories, friendships, and personal growth. Discover how the IPSL program offers AmeriCorps alumni the chance to use their Segal Education Award for international service and education. Don't miss Paige's heartfelt tales and practical advice for anyone considering a similar path!

🎓 Why IPSL?
IPSL provides AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alumni with the opportunity to transform their service experience into an international graduate degree focused on social justice, community development, and global impact. Whether you’re looking to continue your education, take your service global, or gain hands-on experience working with international organizations, IPSL offers a flexible, self-directed learning experience that allows you to design your own path.

🙌 Thank You, IPSL Global Engagement!
IPSL supports AmeriCorps alumni in crafting customized, international master's programs focused on service, human rights, education, and global development.
Learn more about 🔗  IPSL and how you can turn your AmeriCorps education award into a global opportunity.

🚀 More Resources for AmeriCorps Alumni:
🔹 Find AmeriCorps Service Opportunities
🔹 Schools of National Service Use Your Education Award 
🔹 Employers of National Service – Find employers who value your service

🎙 Podcast Marketing support by Do Good, Be Good

#AmeriCorps #AmeriCorpsAlumni #PeaceCorps #IPSL #ServiceYear #InternationalDevelopment #Education #GlobalEngagement #DoGoodBeGood #NationalService

🎙️ AmeriCorps Connections Podcast is a platform dedicated to sharing the transformative journeys of AmeriCorps alumni and service-driven changemakers. Through inspiring interviews, we explore how national service shapes careers, builds community impact, and fosters leadership. Whether you're an AmeriCorps member, alum, or someone passionate about service, this podcast offers insights, stories, and resources to help you navigate life during and after AmeriCorps. 🚀✨

🚀 Take Your AmeriCorps Service Global! 🌍
In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast, Zandy shares how she turned her AmeriCorps Segal Education Award into an international learning and service experience with IPSL Global Engagement.
Through IPSL, she traveled to Colombia, Peru, and Guatemala, learning Spanish, public health, and community organizing, all while serving alongside local communities. This is NOT your typical study abroad—IPSL focuses on ethical, community-driven programs that prioritize local leadership and cultural exchange.

🔥 Key Takeaways:
✅ How AmeriCorps alumni can use their education award internationally
✅ The power of immersive learning & service abroad
✅ Why culturally responsive programs matter
✅ How to design your own global service-learning experience

🎧 Watch now on You Tube and subscribe for more AmeriCorps alumni stories!

Learn how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to lifelong memories, friendships, and personal growth. Discover how the IPSL program offers AmeriCorps alumni the chance to use their Segal Education Award for international service and education. Don't miss Paige's heartfelt tales and practical advice for anyone considering a similar path!

🎓 Why IPSL?
IPSL provides AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alumni with the opportunity to transform their service experience into an international graduate degree focused on social justice, community development, and global impact. Whether you’re looking to continue your education, take your service global, or gain hands-on experience working with international organizations, IPSL offers a flexible, self-directed learning experience that allows you to design your own path.

🙌 Thank You, IPSL Global Engagement!
IPSL supports AmeriCorps alumni in crafting customized, international master's programs focused on service, human rights, education, and global development.
Learn more about 🔗  IPSL and how you can turn your AmeriCorps education award into a global opportunity.

🚀 More Resources for AmeriCorps Alumni:
🔹 Find AmeriCorps Service Opportunities - https://americorps.gov/serve/fit-finder
🔹 Schools of National Service – Use Your Education Award - https://americorps.gov/partner/partnerships/schools-national-service
🔹 Employers of National Service – Find Jobs That Value Your Service - https://americorps.gov/partner/partnerships/employers-national-service-search
🎙 Podcast Marketing support by Do Good, Be Good

#AmeriCorps #AmeriCorpsAlumni #PeaceCorps #IPSL #ServiceYear #InternationalDevelopment #Education #GlobalEngagement #DoGoodBeGood #NationalService

🎙️ AmeriCorps Connections Podcast is a platform dedicated to sharing the transformative journeys of AmeriCorps alumni and service-driven changemakers. Through inspiring interviews, we explore how national service shapes careers, builds community impact, and fosters leadership. Whether you're an AmeriCorps member, alum, or someone passionate about service, this podcast offers insights, stories, and resources to help you navigate life during and after AmeriCorps. 🚀✨

Beyond Comfort Zones: Paige Blosberg's AmeriCorps and IPSL Journey
Join us in this AmeriCorps Connections podcast episode where Paige Blosberg shares her enriching experiences with AmeriCorps and the IPSL program. From teaching preschoolers in Duluth to serving and studying in Vietnam, Paige's journey is full of inspiring moments and valuable insights.

Learn how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to lifelong memories, friendships, and personal growth. Discover how the IPSL program offers AmeriCorps alumni the chance to use their Segal Education Award for international service and education. Don't miss Paige's heartfelt tales and practical advice for anyone considering a similar path!

🎓 Why IPSL?
IPSL provides AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alumni with the opportunity to transform their service experience into an international graduate degree focused on social justice, community development, and global impact. Whether you’re looking to continue your education, take your service global, or gain hands-on experience working with international organizations, IPSL offers a flexible, self-directed learning experience that allows you to design your own path.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections
01:22 The Value of Experiences Over Money
01:55 IPSL Global Engagement Sponsorship
02:58 Highlighting IPSL Programs
03:39 Interview with Paige Blosberg
03:48 Discovering AmeriCorps and First Term of Service
04:55 Finding Out About IPSL Opportunity
05:29 Experience in Vietnam
09:00 Insights and Personal Growth
12:10 Support System and Friendships
17:14 Favorite Local Foods in Vietnam
19:16 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Learn more about 🔗  IPSL and how you can turn your AmeriCorps education award into a global opportunity.

🙌 Thank You, IPSL Global Engagement!
IPSL supports AmeriCorps alumni in crafting customized, international master's programs focused on service, human rights, education, and global development.

🚀 More Resources for AmeriCorps Alumni:
🔹 Find AmeriCorps Service Opportunities - https://americorps.gov/serve/fit-finder
🔹 Schools of National Service – Use Your Education Award - https://americorps.gov/partner/partnerships/schools-national-service
🔹 Employers of National Service – Find Jobs That Value Your Service - https://americorps.gov/partner/partnerships/employers-national-service-search
🎙 Podcast Marketing support by Do Good, Be Good

🔔 Like, Subscribe & Follow for More Stories!
📩 Connect with us in the comments—tell us how service has shaped your journey!

#AmeriCorps #AmeriCorpsAlumni #PeaceCorps #IPSL #ServiceYear #InternationalDevelopment #Education #GlobalEngagement #DoGoodBeGood #NationalService

🎙️ AmeriCorps Connections Podcast is a platform dedicated to sharing the transformative journeys of AmeriCorps alumni and service-driven changemakers. Through inspiring interviews, we explore how national service shapes careers, builds community impact, and fosters leadership. Whether you're an AmeriCorps member, alum, or someone passionate about service, this podcast offers insights, stories, and resources to help you navigate life during and after AmeriCorps. 🚀✨

Join us for an inspiring conversation with T. Jamal Lee, an AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alum, as we explore his journey through service and education—culminating in a life-changing experience with IPSL Global Engagement. This episode dives deep into how AmeriCorps and Peace Corps shaped his path, leading to a customized, service-focused graduate program through IPSL.

🎓 Why IPSL?
IPSL provides AmeriCorps and Peace Corps alumni with the opportunity to transform their service experience into an international graduate degree focused on social justice, community development, and global impact. Whether you’re looking to continue your education, take your service global, or gain hands-on experience working with international organizations, IPSL offers a flexible, self-directed learning experience that allows you to design your own path.

In This Episode:
⏳ 00:00 Introduction & AmeriCorps Beginnings
🌎 03:21 Transitioning from AmeriCorps to Peace Corps
🎓 17:03 The IPSL Experience – Graduate School with a Purpose
🌍 25:26 Studying in Peru & the Philippines
🔑 39:16 How IPSL Opens Career Doors
📢 45:44 Advice for AmeriCorps & Peace Corps Alumni
📢 Are you an AmeriCorps alum looking for your next step?

Learn more about 🔗  IPSL and how you can turn your AmeriCorps education award into a global opportunity.

🙌 Thank You, IPSL Global Engagement!
IPSL supports AmeriCorps alumni in crafting customized, international master's programs focused on service, human rights, education, and global development.

🚀 More Resources for AmeriCorps Alumni:
🔹 Find AmeriCorps Service Opportunities - https://americorps.gov/serve/fit-finder
🔹 Schools of National Service – Use Your Education Award - https://americorps.gov/partner/partnerships/schools-national-service
🔹 Employers of National Service – Find Jobs That Value Your Service - https://americorps.gov/partner/partnerships/employers-national-service-search
🎙 Podcast Marketing support by Do Good, Be Good

🔔 Like, Subscribe & Follow for More Stories!
📩 Connect with us in the comments—tell us how service has shaped your journey!

#AmeriCorps #AmeriCorpsAlumni #PeaceCorps #IPSL #ServiceYear #InternationalDevelopment #Education #GlobalEngagement #DoGoodBeGood #NationalService

🎙️ 2024 End-of-Year Highlights Part 2!  Growth, Connection, and Impact 🌟

In this special year-end reflection, the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast looks back at a year of powerful stories, impactful service, and transformative growth. Throughout 2024, we celebrated the voices of AmeriCorps alumni who showcased the profound difference a service year can make in communities and individual lives.

💡 What to Expect in This Episode:
🌟 2024 Recruitment Extravaganza: Highlights from 15 incredible programs and the lives they’ve touched.
🌊 Tackling Root Causes: How AmeriCorps members addressed systemic challenges for sustainable change.
🌱 Personal Growth: Stories of resilience, leadership, and discovering purpose through service.
🤝 Lifelong Connections: The unique and enduring bonds formed during service years.
🎭 Joy in Service: Finding fulfillment in giving back and creating a brighter future.

🌍 Whether you’re an AmeriCorps alum, a current member, or curious about service, this episode is a testament to the power of connection and the lasting impact of serving others.

🎞️ AmeriCorps Connections on You Tube
📌 Follow us on social media: @americorpsconnections IG
👉 Subscribe for more stories of resilience, growth, and impact in 2025!  @americorpsconnections  

#AmeriCorpsConnections #EndOfYearReflection #2024Highlights #NationalService #Podcast #Volunteerism

🎙️ 2024 End-of-Year Highlights: Growth, Connection, and Impact 🌟
In this special year-end episode of the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast, we reflect on the transformative power of national service through the stories of inspiring alumni. Despite their diverse experiences, shared themes of personal growth, resilience, and community impact emerged.

💡 What to Expect in This Episode:
 🌊 Addressing root causes: Tackling systemic issues for lasting change.
 🌟 Personal transformation: Building resilience and leadership through service.
 🤝 Lifelong connections: Exploring the unique bond of AmeriCorps alumni.
 🎭 Joy in service: Finding fulfillment in making a difference.

✨ Guests Featured:
🔹 Amanda McSwine – AmeriCorps VISTA
🔹 Alex Tran – VISTA & NCCC
🔹 Anton Taylor - City Year
🔹 Shannon Stober – AmeriCorps VISTA
🔹 Jordan Sandman – NCCC team leader 

🎞️ AmeriCorps Connections on You Tube
📌 Follow us on social media: @americorpsconnections IG
👉 Subscribe for more stories of resilience, growth, and impact in 2025!  @americorpsconnections  
#AmeriCorpsConnections #Podcast #NationalService #YearInReview #PersonalGrowth

Join us in this illuminating episode of AmeriCorps Connections as we dive deep into the transformative journey of Nisa Abdul Sabur. From her early introduction to volunteerism through the Girl Scouts and church community service to her impactful roles in AmeriCorps and Peace Corps, Nisa shares her compelling story of personal and professional growth. Learn how she leveraged these experiences to secure a fulfilling career in the federal government, working at FEMA and now the FDA. Discover the importance of relationship-building, the values of public service, and the power of taking a leap of faith. Whether you're an idealist looking to make a difference or someone interested in the intersection of community service and career development, this episode offers invaluable insights and inspiration.

00:00 Introduction and Early Influences
00:51 AmeriCorps and Peace Corps Experience
01:37 Podcast Announcements and Call to Action
03:02 Interview with Nisa Abdul Sabur Begins
03:21 City Year Journey and Challenges
17:03 Professional Development and Skills Gained
25:26 Transition to Peace Corps
39:16 Reflections on Apartheid and Cultural Shifts
41:09 The Importance of Grace and Understanding
43:11 Peace Corps Experiences and Lessons Learned
45:44 Building Relationships and Community Impact
56:33 Leveraging Peace Corps for Career Success
59:29 Navigating Federal Opportunities and Project Management
01:15:11 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

🔁🔁🔁🔁🔁🔁
United For Impact: AmeriCorps and Peace Corps Forge Strategic Alliance to Mobilize American Volunteers for a Sustainable Tomorrow: https://americorps.gov/newsroom/press-release/united-impact-americorps-peace-corps-forge-strategic-alliance-mobilize

Alumni Connections 🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝

• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

Nicki stepped out from behind the camera and got on stage with AmeriCorps VISTA members in Chicago, USA.
🤠
Remember it's NOT the challenges that define you, but how you respond to them. It is your resilience and commitment to “GET THINGS DONE”
In the AmeriCorps Pledge we agreed “TO MAKE OUR PEOPLE SAFER, SMARTER AND HEALTHIER”
We pledged that if “FACED WITH APATHY” we would take actions.
We committed to persevere if faced with adversity.
We pledged to “carry this commitment with us during a service year and beyond.
Because why?..........We are AmeriCorps members and WE GET THINGS DONE!

😁Let go of doubt….let go of imposter syndrome…..let go of unworthiness….and embrace courage, curiosity and sprinkle in a little leap of faith.✨

Let the energy of these few days work through you. 💫
Let your VISTA year teach you…..mold you into the person you have the capacity to BECOME
Be curious, be open, be authentic.........find something in yourself that you didn’t know existed
Be Brave because YOU ARE the change the world needs…..you are an innovator and an AmeriCorps VISTA member. 🤝🤝🤝

AmeriCorps Connections: From Teach for America to Peace Corps with Antonio

In this episode of AmeriCorps Connections, we have a fascinating conversation with Antonio Mendez, an AmeriCorps alum who has transitioned from being a Teach for America member to serving as the Country Director for Mexico with the Peace Corps. Join us as Antonio shares his journey, insights, and valuable experiences from his diverse service background. This episode touches on themes of career growth, the impact of national service, and the importance of pushing personal boundaries for greater achievement. Whether you're an AmeriCorps member, a Peace Corps enthusiast, or curious about national service, this episode offers inspiration and actionable advice. Make sure to like, share, and subscribe for more compelling stories of national service.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:27 Guest Introduction: Antonio's Service Journey
02:34 AmeriCorps Experience and Impact
05:47 Transition to Peace Corps
11:34 Challenges and Growth in Peace Corps
18:57 Philosophy and Personal Reflections
23:32 Current Role and Responsibilities in Peace Corps
24:40 Roles and Responsibilities of a Country Director
25:22 Government Relations and International Relations
26:58 Volunteer Impact and Language Learning
31:34 Misconceptions and Opportunities in Peace Corps
36:17 Peace Corps Response and Program Evolution
38:33 Application Process and Health Requirements
39:40 Personal Experiences and Impact Stories
45:20 Final Thoughts and Encouragement to Serve

🔁🔁🔁🔁🔁🔁
United For Impact: AmeriCorps and Peace Corps Forge Strategic Alliance to Mobilize American Volunteers for a Sustainable Tomorrow: https://americorps.gov/newsroom/press-release/united-impact-americorps-peace-corps-forge-strategic-alliance-mobilize

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Opportunities 
• Schools of National Service - Find an institute that will match/ honor or offer other incentives toward your Segal Education Award - 
• Employers of National Service - Find employers who prioritize AmeriCorps Alumni service in their hiring 

🤠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.