The Corporation for National and Community Service is an independent federal agency created to connect Americans of all ages and backgrounds with opportunities to give back to their communities and their nation. It supports a wide range of national service programs. Some, including AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps*VISTA, are open to people of all ages while others, like Senior Corps, are focused on adults 55 and older. Many of these opportunities, both full- and part-time, offer a modest monthly stipend (also called a “living allowance”). Some also provide a voucher upon completion of service (called an “education award”) that can be used for educational expenses at qualified institutions of higher education, for educational training, or to repay qualified student loans.

AmeriCorps is a national network of hundreds of programs that are operated by local and national organizations throughout the US. In states, the Corporation provides funding to Governor-appointed State Service Commissions to provide grants to non-government and government entities that operate AmeriCorps programs. Most AmeriCorps assignments are full-time, but there are some part-time service opportunities available. The time commitment varies, from ten months to a year, depending upon the project.

AmeriCorps VISTA is managed nationally by the Corporation for National and Community Service. AmeriCorps VISTA is designed specifically to fight poverty. Founded as Volunteers in Service to America in 1965 and incorporated into the AmeriCorps network of programs in 1993, VISTA has been on the front lines in the fight against poverty in America for more than 40 years. VISTA members commit to serve full-time for a year at a nonprofit organization or local government agency.

Senior Corps connects people 55 and over with opportunities to become mentors, coaches or companions to people in need, or to contribute their job skills and expertise to community projects and organizations. Conceived during John F. Kennedy's presidency, Senior Corps currently links more than 500,000 Americans to service opportunities. It offers several ways to get involved. Participants receive guidance and training so they can make a contribution that suits their talents, interests, and availability.

• The Foster Grandparent Program connects volunteers age 55 and over with children and young people with exceptional needs. Volunteers mentor, support, and help some of the most vulnerable children in the United States. Eligible participants receive a non-taxable, hourly stipend.
• The Senior Companion Program brings together volunteers age 55 and over with adults in their community who have difficulty with the simple tasks of day-to-day living. Companions help out on a personal level by assisting with shopping and light chores, interacting with doctors, or just making a friendly visit. Eligible participants receive a non-taxable, hourly stipend.
• RSVP connects volunteers age 55 and over with service opportunities in their communities that match their skills and availability. From building houses to immunizing children, from enhancing the capacity of non-profit organizations to improving and protecting the environment, RSVP volunteers put their unique talents to work to make a difference. Participants in RSVP can be reimbursed for some project-related expenses, e.g. transportation, but cannot receive any other compensation for service.

To help you find the national service program that best fits your skills, interests and circumstances, check out the Interactive Program Selector for Individuals tool.