RISE Program Specialist

RISE Program Specialist (Open)

Ameri Corps members, titled "RISE Program Specialists", facilitate a skill-based curriculum to adjudicated youth, ages 12-18, focusing on educational skill development. The facilitation of the curriculum occurs in a group setting with youth attending either in-person or virtually. Ameri Corps Members may also serve youth on an individual basis, specific to the youth needs. As skill development takes time, additional support will be provided to each youth after the completion of the curriculum for up to 6 months.

So what is Ameri Corps? When you think of Ameri Corps, think of the Peace Corps but in your own backyard. Ameri Corps is a civil society program supported by the U.S. federal government, foundations, corporations and other donors engaging adults in public service work with a goal of "helping others and meeting critical needs in the community." Not only do RISE Ameri Corps members make a difference in their community, they gain valuable experience for their next job or graduate school endeavor.

Recognizing Increased Skills in Education (RISE) is a grant-funded Ameri Corps Program requiring a one-year commitment from the Ameri Corps member to serve between the dates of August 1, 2026, and July 31, 2027. Part-time members will be required to complete 900 service hours. Members may serve more than one service year, not to exceed four service years.

Location and Travel:

• In-office only.
• Some travel may be required.

Home office option of:
Beatrice, Wilber, Geneva, or Nebraska City

• Beatrice Office: 201 North 5 Street Ste 1 Beatrice, NE 68310

Work Schedule:

Ameri Corps Member to serve between the dates of August 1, 2026, and July 31, 2027.

Part-time with hours varying and required to complete 900 service hours.

Salary/Compensation:

Living Stipend of $1,485.00 monthly ($17,820 annually)

Benefits

• Living Stipend: A monthly living stipend of $1,485 for PT members. The living stipend is not considered a salary or wage per Ameri Corps federal regulations.
• Segal Education Award:
  Upon successful completion of the Member's term of National Service, the Member will receive an education award from the National Service Trust in the amount of $3,697.50 for all members. The award can be used to pay for college or vocational school, to pay back qualified student loans, or in some cases can be transferred to children or grandchildren.
• Student Loan Forbearance and Payment of Interest Accrued on Qualified Student Loans:
  Members may be eligible to have the repayment of their qualified student loans postponed while serving (loan forbearance). Upon successful completion of a term of service the National Service Trust will pay, on behalf of the borrower, all or a portion of the interest that is accrued on a qualified student loan during the Member's term of service.
• Training in key areas
• Professional Development
• Alumni Network

Examples of Work

• Teach youth educational-based skills—such as goal setting, motivation, organization, study skills, and test-taking strategies—using a pre-written curriculum.
• Host in-person groups at schools, probation offices, or other community sites.
• Collect and submit school attendance variables to satisfy grant-defined performance measures.
• Attend Ameri Corps National Service events and specific Nebraska Probation training sessions.
• Engage in additional training throughout the service year, including juvenile justice or education conferences and webinars.

Requirements/Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

Completion of 48 hours of college coursework from an accredited institution in social sciences, criminal justice, education, or a related field is encouraged. Related work experience may substitute for the required college coursework.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in social sciences, criminal justice, education, or a related field is preferred.
• The ability to speak Spanish is desired but not required.

Other:

• Must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident.
• Must submit to a criminal background check, including FBI fingerprinting, a national record check, the National Sex Offender Public Website, and a state criminal background check.
• Enrollment in the program is contingent on the results of a National Service Criminal History Check.

Knowledge

Skills and Abilities

Knowledge

• Proficiency in reading and writing English.
• Understanding of basic computer functions.
• Familiarity with accurate record-keeping practices.
• Awareness of the commitment is required to dependably serve up to 20 hours per week.
• Alignment with a strong work ethic and a passion for volunteerism.

Skills

• Communicating effectively in both verbal and written correspondence with fellow Ameri Corps members, Nebraska State Probation staff, school officials, and community stakeholders.
• Maintaining consistent attendance and dependability throughout the service period.