60 minutes in 60 seconds - AmeriCorps

The Lecture You Missed
The AmeriCorps Panel Discussion with Leslie Lenkowsky, School of Public and Environmental Affairs faculty member; Erin Cooperman, an AmeriCorps program coordinator; Debbie Pidgeon, director of programs for the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives; and Bruce Murray, who is serving his first year with AmeriCorps. The panel discussed the national program AmeriCorps and its members, benefits and funding as well as the future outlook for the program.

Why Were They Here?
To inform students about the opportunities for service that AmeriCorps offers as well as the benefits of joining AmeriCorps, such as career experience, financial support, community service and education rewards. The discussion ended with the effects of the recent economic downfall on the program and its funding.

Most Surprising Quote
“While it is probably not going to be zeroed out, it will likely be reduced back to the level it was at in 2008,” Lendowsky said of the reduced governmental support for AmeriCorps, estimating that the roughly 250,000 positions offered now will be cut back closer to 75,000.

To Learn More
About AmeriCorps, visit: www.AmeriCorps.gov
About AmeriCorps Programs in Indiana, visit: www.AmeriCorps.ofbci.in.gov