AmeriCorps launches new Iowa program

A new program coming to Cedar Rapids aims to promote service, leadership and community development.

Public Allies Iowa AmeriCorps is launching across the state. Operated by the Iowa Community Action Association, the program will match volunteers, known as “allies,” with local community service organizations.

This is a new AmeriCorps program in Iowa, which will run alongside existing AmeriCorps service programs like Green Iowa AmeriCorps.

“Public Allies is a national program focused on changing the face and the practice of leadership,” said Laura Aldrich, Public Allies Iowa AmericCorps site director. “We are identifying diverse candidates who are motivated to develop their communities and are passionate about their leadership skills.”

Applications to be an ally are still being accepted. The allies serve for 10 months with a $14,000 stipend, plus free health care and a $5,500 education award. Along with their non-profit placement, allies complete an intensive leadership development program and carry-out a poverty-related community service project alongside other volunteers.

In the Cedar Rapids area, Public Allies is partnering with Hawkeye Area Community Action Program, a non-profit based in Hiawatha. Aldrich said two allies placed there will identify area organizations which serve the homeless and will work to build a consortium streamlining those services for greater efficiency. The end goal, she said, is for less people fall through the cracks.

Public Allies is also placing volunteers in Cedar Falls, Decorah, the Des Moines area, Dubuque, Marshalltown, Perry and Harlan. There are still two slots open for organizations that would like a volunteer this year.

For more information on being a Public Ally and to apply, visit http://apply.publicallies.org/.

Organizations interested in learning more can contact Aldrich at lraldrich@iowacaa.com or (515) 288-0374.

Funding for the program comes in part from AmeriCorps and in part from the partner organizations that receive volunteers.

The Public Allies Iowa AmeriCorps program will officially launch with a celebration Nov. 15 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Iowa State Capitol Rotunda in Des Moines.