AmeriCorps Connections

Connecting Through Service: AmeriCorps and Peace Corps Journeys

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, hosted by Nicki Fiocco, we explore the inspiring story of Sadie Botin, a dual service member who has served both in AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps. Sadie shares her journey from her AmeriCorps service in a refugee resettlement agency in Iowa to her impactful Peace Corps experience in Eswatini, focusing on community projects, and the strong relationships she built. The discussion also highlights the challenges and emotional resonances of such service, concluding with reflections on the broader impact and personal growth derived from these experiences.

00:00 Welcome to AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
00:22 Introducing the Peace Corps Series
01:09 Support the Podcast on Patreon
01:36 Special Thanks to Sharon Tewksbury Bloom
01:56 Meet Sadie Botin
02:06 What is the Peace Corps?
03:26 Sadie's AmeriCorps Journey
05:55 Challenges and Rewards of AmeriCorps Service
07:52 Reflections on Refugee Resettlement
15:56 Transitioning to Peace Corps
19:32 Applying and Preparing for Peace Corps
26:08 Arriving in Eswatini
31:38 Starting the Journey: Training and Community Assignment
32:06 Building Relationships and Early Challenges
34:48 The Library Project: A Labor of Love
36:09 Personal Reflections on Reading and Education
39:34 The Footbridge Project: Community Collaboration
44:09 Saying Goodbye: Closing Out the Peace Corps Service
48:31 Life After Peace Corps: Career and Education
56:35 AmeriCorps and Alumni Engagement

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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.

Life-Changing Journeys: AmeriCorps and Peace Corps Insights

In this compelling episode of AmeriCorps Connections, host Nicki Fiocco delves into the inspiring journeys of individuals who have served both in AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps. Joined by Justin Hargesheimer, the episode explores how service in these transformative programs fosters leadership, global empathy, and cultural humility. Justin reflects on stepping out of comfort zones and the skills developed through advocacy and action-oriented service. In a world where virtual volunteering and global connectivity are reshaping how we engage, this conversation highlights the critical role of collaboration and inclusivity in creating meaningful societal impact. From building personal resilience to addressing urgent humanitarian issues, this episode offers insights on how service empowers individuals to become advocates for systemic change, both locally and globally.

If you like this content - please become a Patreon of the Podcast 😁 Get your name/organization as a supporter on every episode! Right now, I am a solopreneur paying for all of the back end tools to create and distribute this content. 😎 

00:00 Introduction to AmeriCorps and Peace Corps
00:50 Welcome to the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
01:19 Meet the Host and the Podcast's Impact
02:38 Introducing the Special Series and Guest
02:56 Justin's Service Journey Begins
04:11 Leveraging AmeriCorps for Education
06:30 Hands-On Experience with Operation Fresh Start
10:00 From AmeriCorps to Habitat for Humanity
12:54 Reflections on the AmeriCorps Experience
16:21 Returning to AmeriCorps as a Team Leader
17:57 AmeriCorps Journey: Year Two
18:26 NCCC Projects and Experiences
21:38 Lessons in Team Management
24:20 Transition to Peace Corps
25:08 Peace Corps Masters International Program
27:55 Serving in Guatemala
28:55 Reflections on Peace Corps Impact
34:58 Empathy and Global Connections
36:23 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

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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.

🌟🌟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)

📢Your voice matters more than ever. Take 2 minutes and tell your lawmakers that AmeriCorps is essential to your community. 📢📢📢
USE THIS LINK

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Dual Service Journeys: From Peace Corps to AmeriCorps with Thomas Darnell

In this AmeriCorps Connections podcast episode, we explore the dual service journey of Thomas Darnell, an alum of both the Peace Corps and AmeriCorps. Thomas shares his experiences serving in Mali with the Peace Corps, where he faced challenges such as learning new languages and navigating a vastly different culture. He recounts his transition to AmeriCorps, where he worked on STEM projects and robotics in Baltimore, Maryland. Throughout the episode, Thomas reflects on the impactful lessons and skills he gained, the deep connections he forged with communities, and his subsequent role at the Washington State AmeriCorps Commission. The episode underscores the broader theme of service, personal growth, and the interconnectedness of AmeriCorps and Peace Corps programs.

00:00 Introduction to the Special Series
00:09 Meet Thomas Darnell: Dual Service Member
01:13 Understanding Peace Corps vs. AmeriCorps
01:25 Thomas's Peace Corps Journey in Mali
03:43 Challenges and Adaptations in Mali
08:47 Cultural Integration and Community Projects
22:14 Reflections on Peace Corps Experience
27:10 Transition to AmeriCorps and Grad School
28:25 AmeriCorps Service in Baltimore
29:36 Role as Peer Leader and Volunteer Maryland
30:07 Current Role and Final Reflections
37:57 Conclusion and Call to Action

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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 Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• 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.

🌟🌟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)

📢Your voice matters more than ever. Take 2 minutes and tell your lawmakers that AmeriCorps is essential to your community. 📢📢📢
USE THIS LINK

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In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, host Nicki Fiocco interviews John Knauer about his transformative experiences in AmeriCorps and Peace Corps. John shares insights from his service years, emphasizing the importance of seeing individuals behind the numbers and harnessing the power of connection and community impact.

He recounts his start with AmeriCorps through a program recommended by his brother, progressing to his roles in New Orleans and Madagascar, and how these experiences influenced his perspective on personal growth, adaptability, and impact.

The episode highlights the shifts in John's service mindset, the adaptation and resilience gained through his service experiences, and the joy of fostering community through intentional connections. John also discusses the exciting changes at Notre Dame Mission Volunteers, reflecting ongoing growth and transformation in the national service landscape. The conversation underscores the themes of empathy, intentionality, and the transformative power of open-mindedness and curiosity in service.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Impact of Service
00:47 Meet John Knauer
03:18 John's AmeriCorps Journey Begins
07:26 The Importance of Site Supervisors
08:35 Personal Growth and Second Year of Service
20:41 Transition to Peace Corps
30:05 Cultural Immersion in Madagascar
31:06 Language Barriers and Misunderstandings
32:38 Comparing Dialects: Puerto Rico and Beyond
35:14 Peace Corps Projects and Achievements
39:37 Community and Happiness in Madagascar
45:20 Reflections on Service and Personal Growth
56:44 The Future of Notre Dame Mission Volunteers
59:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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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 Production and 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}

📢Your voice matters more than ever. Take 2 minutes and tell your lawmakers that AmeriCorps is essential to your community. 📢📢📢
USE THIS LINK

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Full Circle with Mikayla Wright: AmeriCorps Alum & Marketing Guru

Join host Nicki Fiocco on this exciting episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast as she interviews Mikayla Wright, an AmeriCorps alum with four summer service terms under her belt. Typically behind the scenes editing the podcast, Mikayla steps into the spotlight to share her unique journey from high school volunteer to AmeriCorps literacy specialist. She also delves into her current role as a marketing assistant at Do Good, Be Good, and her internship in athletic training. Discover how AmeriCorps shaped her path and continues to influence her dedication to service and community.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement
00:37 AmeriCorps Overview and Host Introduction
02:30 Mikayla's AmeriCorps Journey Begins
04:04 High School AmeriCorps Experience
07:48 College and Post-College Path
08:38 Current Role and Responsibilities
12:15 Connecting Past Experiences to Current Goals
18:15 Future Aspirations and Reflections
23:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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 Production and 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)

📢Your voice matters more than ever. Take 2 minutes and tell your lawmakers that AmeriCorps is essential to your community. 📢📢📢
USE THIS LINK

🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝
Empowering the Future: AmeriCorps Alums in Service and Beyond

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, host Nicki Fiocco brings on Casey Vincelette from the New York State Service Commission to discuss their experiences and journeys through AmeriCorps. This episode offers insight into the impact of AmeriCorps programs on individuals and communities, and the unique opportunities within National Service. Casey shares her transformational experience with Teach for America, navigating challenges during the pandemic, and ultimately finding her way to New York to support the New York State Service Commission. The episode also highlights the ongoing 2024 Recruitment Extravaganza and the collaborative nature of service commissions across states.

00:00 Introduction to AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
00:32 Purpose and Special Series of the Podcast
02:15 Casey Vince's AmeriCorps Journey
05:17 Challenges and Triumphs in Teaching
17:24 Impact of the Pandemic on Education
19:05 Transition to New York State Service Commission
24:39 Recruitment and Opportunities in AmeriCorps
34:28 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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How to Get Connected:
↘️New Yorkers Volunteers - https://newyorkersvolunteer.ny.gov/
↘️Contact Casey - https://newyorkersvolunteer.ny.gov/americorps-right-your-organization

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• 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.

🌟🌟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)

📢Your voice matters more than ever. Take 2 minutes and tell your lawmakers that AmeriCorps is essential to your community. 📢📢📢
USE THIS LINK

🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝
Exploring AmeriCorps Opportunities with Leah Pagano: From Service Years to Career Paths

Join Nicki Fiocco, founder of AmeriCorps Connections Podcast, in an enlightening conversation with Leah Pagano, an AmeriCorps alumna based in Austin, Texas. Leah shares her diverse experiences serving on the west coast, detailing her journey from an education degree to her impactful work with AmeriCorps programs. Leah discusses the importance of civic engagement, the skills she gained during her service years, and her transition to Literacy First in Central Texas. Learn about the application process, program benefits, and the collaborative efforts of various AmeriCorps programs in Austin. Whether you're a recent graduate or a professional looking to pivot, this episode sheds light on how AmeriCorps can be a transformative experience.

00:00 Introduction to the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
01:58 Leah Pagano's AmeriCorps Journey
05:40 Experiences and Skills Gained During Service
10:50 Transitioning to a Career in Education
12:45 Joining Literacy First and Current Role
15:32 Program Details and Recruitment Information
19:48 Application Process and Benefits
22:05 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

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How to Get Connected:
➡️Literacy First Become a Tutor Page
➡️Literacy First LinkedIn
➡️Literacy First Instagram
➡️AmeriCorps Central Texas 
➡️AmeriCorps Central Texas LinkedIn
➡️AmeriCorps Central Texas Instagram

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• 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.

🌟🌟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)

📢Your voice matters more than ever. Take 2 minutes and tell your lawmakers that AmeriCorps is essential to your community. 📢📢📢
USE THIS LINK

🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝🤝
AmeriCorps Alumni Lisa McGurk Shares Her Journey and Recruitment Insights | AmeriCorps Connections Podcast

In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast, founder Nicki Fiocco interviews AmeriCorps alumna Lisa McGurk, representing Notre Dame Mission Volunteers AmeriCorps. Lisa discusses her unique journey through two AmeriCorps programs, her transition from a history professor to environmental educator, and how AmeriCorps shaped her career and life. Learn about AmeriCorps' impact on personal growth, community engagement, and current recruitment opportunities. Discover the benefits of joining one of the largest, oldest faith-based AmeriCorps programs and the transformative power of a service year. If you're considering a service year or curious about AmeriCorps, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.

00:00 Introduction to AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
00:14 Meet Lisa McGurk: Notre Dame Mission Volunteers AmeriCorps
00:44 About the AmeriCorps Connections Podcast
02:08 Special Thanks and Acknowledgements
03:15 The Importance of Service Years
03:48 Lisa's Journey: From Academia to AmeriCorps
05:08 Discovering AmeriCorps Opportunities
05:45 Impact of Service: Personal Growth and Community Connections
07:29 Roles and Responsibilities in AmeriCorps
12:47 Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator Role
13:05 Expanding AmeriCorps Reach
15:35 Encouragement for Potential AmeriCorps Members
19:35 Current Opportunities with Notre Dame Mission Volunteers
23:03 Application Process and Requirements
27:47 Benefits of Joining AmeriCorps
29:53 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

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How to Get Connected:
Notre Dame Mission Volunteers -
How to Apply
Connect with Lisa -
📧email - [email protected]

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• 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.

🌟🌟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)

📢Your voice matters more than ever. Take 2 minutes and tell your lawmakers that AmeriCorps is essential to your community. 📢📢📢
USE THIS LINK

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Empowering Communities with Public Allies Alum Candace Jusino

Join host Nicki Fiocco on the AmeriCorps Connections podcast for a special episode in the 2024 Recruitment Extravaganza series. This episode features Candace Jusino, an AmeriCorps alum from Public Allies, who shares her journey from the financial sector to community service. Candace discusses the transformative impact of her AmeriCorps experience and provides insight into her role as a recruiter for Public Allies Delaware. Discover the benefits of AmeriCorps programs, upcoming recruitment opportunities, and how service can shape personal and professional growth. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, community engagement, and making a meaningful impact.

02:38 Introducing Candace Cusino and Public Allies
03:08 Candace's AmeriCorps Experience
07:22 The Impact of AmeriCorps Service
14:28 Candace's Role and Responsibilities
19:21 Transition from Service to Staff
24:16 Recruitment for Public Allies Delaware
31:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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How to Get Connected:
🔗Public Allies DE
🔗Application
🔗https://www.bidenschool.udel.edu/ccrs/service/pade

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Join VISTA alum and Portland's 7th Poet Laureate Maya Williams on July 18th at 5pm EST for the story of her service, their best writing tips, and her best tips to adjusting to life after service. Don't delay, click here to register today: REGISTER

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• 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.

🌟🌟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)

📢Your voice matters more than ever. Take 2 minutes and tell your lawmakers that AmeriCorps is essential to your community. 📢📢📢
USE THIS LINK

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In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, host Nicki Fiocco speaks with Max Berry from the Earn to Learn (ETL) Next Steps program. They discuss the significance of the AmeriCorps service in addressing community and national issues, particularly focusing on the college access and readiness initiatives led by ETL. Max shares his journey into AmeriCorps during his senior year at the University of Arizona and his experiences working with high school students in underserved communities. The conversation highlights the process of becoming an ETL advisor, the program's recruitment efforts for the 2024-2025 term, and the broader impact of AmeriCorps service on personal and professional development.

00:11 Meet Max Berry from Earn to Learn
03:18 Discovering AmeriCorps: Max's Journey
04:45 Max's Service Experience and Impact
06:26 Navigating the AmeriCorps Application Process
11:44 Connecting with Students: Challenges and Successes
16:32 The Importance of Trade Schools and Alternative Paths
23:58 Recruitment for Earn to Learn: Opportunities and Benefits
29:54 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

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How to Get Connected:
📧Application Link: Next Steps Advisor • Earn to Learn
📧Email: [email protected]
🔗LinkedIn : Max Berry | LinkedIn

📣📣📣📣📣📣📣📣📣
Join VISTA alum and Portland's 7th Poet Laureate Maya Williams on July 18th at 5pm EST for the story of her service, their best writing tips, and her best tips to adjusting to life after service. Don't delay, click here to register today: REGISTER

Alumni Connections

• AmeriCorps Alums LinkedIn Group 
• Join the official AmeriCorps Alumni Network with Service Year 
• 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.

🌟🌟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)