What is Delta Service Corps?

Delta Service Corps (DSC) is an AmeriCorps program within the Louisiana Delta Service Corps and is one of over 400 AmeriCorps National Service programs.  Known as the “Peace Corps of the Delta”,  DSC creates opportunities for AmeriCorps members across the Louisiana Delta region to perform vital services in neighborhoods and communities.  We address education, health, and housing needs.  Up to 45 members are selected to serve individually or in teams at local public or nonprofit organizations.  Members receive a modest living stipend of $11,700 and a $4,725 education award upon completion of the 11 month service year.

What are the requirements to join LDSC?

Corps members must be at least 18 years of age (there is no upper age limit - we've had members in their 70's!), have a high school diploma or GED, no felonies, have an upbeat attitude, a passion for serving their community and be able to commit 11 months of their lives!

 

DSC members may be recruited nationally and locally!


How does this work?

If you are selected to be a corps member, DSC will place you with a community-based organization in one of three geographic areas where you will serve full-time from September 1—July 31.  Our three teams will be evenly distributed throughout the delta region of Louisiana and will known as the North Team (Maddison, East Carroll, Tensas and Concordia Parishes), the Baton Rouge Team and the New Orleans Team (Jefferson, Orleans and the North Shore areas). As a corps member, you will receive training and experience from your host site and also attend monthly meetings and workshops designed by the LSC staff. You will earn a living allowance and when your 11-month term is complete, you will receive an Education Award that you can take to any Title IV University, most Technical and Community colleges and use to pay for classes or to pay off student loans. It’s that easy!!

How do I apply?

There are two easy steps:  1.) Click on the Corps Member Application link, print it out, fill it out, and mail or fax it to us by July 3rd - although we will continue to accept applications past the deadline if there are still openings 2.) MAIL or FAX us your references and then we will contact you to set up an interview.

What is a host site?

A host site is a community based organization like a school or a social service agency where corps members serve full-time for 11 months.  Each site has a specific project with a one year timeline and goals designed specifically for their DSC member.  Host Sites complete an application to  DSC in the spring  outlining their program and their specific project. Sites are chosen based on the general quality and ingenuity of their application, the need for the project in the community and the level of supervision and training that they are willing to commit to  a corps member.  Chosen host sites are listed on our website by the end of May. There the  corps member applicants can see what the sites are and which projects are available.

 

Can I choose the site that I serve with?

Yes, the sooner we receive your application, the sooner we can match your goals with that of a hosting agency. See the current 2009-10 Projects now!

How much do I get paid?

Corps members receive a modest stipend/living allowance in the amount of $11,700 over the 11-month period.  It equates to approximately $531.81 (before taxes) twice a month.

How do I get the Education Award?

At the completion of the 11-months and the 1700 service hours, Corps members receive a voucher for $4,725 that can be used to pay off existing student loans or to go back to college. They have 7 years to use the education award from the time of graduation.

Do I receive any benefits? 

All corps members receive individual health care benefits, which is not deducted from the living allowance.  Based on income eligibility corps members may receive child care reimbursement. They also may elect to defer their student loans.