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MCC Daily Tribune

Rochester AmeriCorps Celebrates the Start of its 30th Year

Rochester AmeriCorps, a program of MCC, celebrated the start of its 30th year of service last week as seven members participated in a week-long orientation and training at the Downtown Campus.

Members took part in trainings focused on restorative practices and initiatives, understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), youth mental health first aid, cultural humility, and trauma-informed practices. Workshops were presented by a diverse array of trainers from organizations across the city including Melanie Funchess, CEO of Ubuntu Village Works and Director of  Mental Health and Wellness at Common Ground Health; Marie Gillum, Senior Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Consultant at Coordinated Care Servives, Inc; and facilitators from Teen Empowerment and Partners in Restorative Initiatives. 

The trainings and workshops helped prepare members to provide direct services and supports to children, youth, and families in five Rochester City schools and the education-focused nonprofit Children's Institute. Members will serve full-time for 42 weeks, engaging students in classrooms and school programs to improve not only academic outcomes, but also the social-emotional health and well-being of our city's youth. Acting as another supportive adult in childrens' lives, Rochester AmeriCorps members are a consistent, positive presence at their host site where they build relationships and resiliency among all people connected to the school and the community at large. 

When asked in a daily evaluation, "What was the most useful / meaningful part of today?" one member shared, "So much information, so awesome. [I feel] strong, empowered and powerful!" Congratulations to the entire cohort for embarking on this service experience! 

Members receive a bi-weekly living allowance, a $4,826 Education Award that can be used to pay down student loans or to pay for higher education costs, and professional development and networking opportunities. Members are also eligible for individual health insurance, SNAP benefits, and a childcare subsidy for dependents 12 and under. For more information about Rochester AmeriCorps please email RochesterAmeriCorps@monroecc.edu or call 585-685-6010.

Garth Freeman
AmeriCorps
09/20/2023