Shared by Kindra Greene- AmeriCorps, as Guest Blogger.

Why I AmeriCorps- Choosing to continue service in a Career Development Program and what I’ve learned so far.

AmeriCorps members are called to serve their community. One of their guiding principles is Get Things Done! I have heard this throughout my service and have seen the important work that gets done by AmeriCorps members. After completing the 400-hour program in 2019, I decided to apply for the 1200-hour Career Development Program. This meant committing to 9 months in a Virginia State Park learning about life as a Park Ranger Resource Specialist.

I joined the District 1 resource crew based out of First Landing State Park. While this crew is physically based at FLSP it is responsible for the resource management projects of six Virginia parks!

I felt called to continue my AmeriCorps service because I wanted to challenge myself to learn more about service and conservation and to contribute to the improvement and maintenance of the parks in an impactful way. There was much about the Resource Specialist path that intimidated me; however, I was confident I would be equipped with the training and support I needed to do these things.

Resource crews are responsible for pollinating fields with native plants, controlling invasive species, participating in prescribed burns, building new trails, repairing and maintaining existing ones, protecting rare ecosystems and species tracking and identification among many other things. I have received extensive training, one-on-one instruction and team support to learn these new skills.

Just over four months into my service, our current global health crisis has presented challenges. My service looks a bit different than I thought it would. Yet, in this time of uncertainty it has given me a renewed appreciation for the balm and refuge that our State Parks provide, and it has also made me realize that service is more important now than ever. While we are staying apart, we can also look inward at what we can do to help others.

One of the most surprising and exciting things about serving in AmeriCorps is the way it has pushed me beyond my comfort zone and challenged me to take on new experiences and gain new perspectives both in what I’m capable of doing and in fully understanding the importance of the service crews in our Virginia State Parks.

Not only does the program provide amazing experiences and career development opportunities, but it provides a monthly living stipend and education award at the end of your completed service. Whether you’re a graduating senior, a college student, or questioning if you’re career field best suits you, ask yourself, why not AmeriCorps? Click here to learn more and apply.