AmeriCorps Youth Mental Health Mentor

The National Mental Health Corps is a national mental health workforce development program that engages universities, school districts, health care systems, and other community-based organizations across the nation to support widespread implementation of evidence-based mental health-focused gatekeeper trainings. There is a sense of urgency in South Carolina to improve awareness, recognition, and the ability to respond to the needs of those experiencing symptoms of mental illness.

These gatekeeper trainings and programs provide communities with the tools to better respond to mental health care needs. Ameri Corps volunteers improve their host site’s capacity to address mental health needs in their community through service. During their one-year service term, Ameri Corps volunteers are trained as instructors in an identified gatekeeper training and provide certification classes for community members.

Ameri Corps members serving with RIZE Prevention in Mauldin, SC, as iRIZE Student Liaisons will mentor and support middle school students throughout the school year, helping youth build confidence, develop healthy peer relationships, and resist substance use. Members will serve within partner schools, providing prevention-focused programming, social-emotional support, and connection to mental health and community resources. Members will collaborate closely with school counselors, administrators, families, and community partners to strengthen student support systems and promote youth well-being.

Responsibilities include supporting school events, presentations, student engagement activities, outreach efforts, and prevention initiatives. Members will also assist with data collection, program evaluation, and summer programming while serving as trusted mentors and positive role models for students navigating the challenges of adolescence.

• Relocation Allowance
• Childcare assistance if eligible
• Stipend
• Education award upon successful completion of service
• Living Allowance
• Training

• Permits working at another job during off hours
• Car recommended
• Permits attendance at school during off hours

• Children/Youth
• Community Outreach
• Health

• Communications
• Counseling
• Youth Development
• Public Speaking
• Community Organization
• Public Health