tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52784643425023150222024-02-19T21:31:12.450-05:00Connect. Commit. Change.AmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-65728249225646364272011-04-23T11:00:00.003-04:002011-04-23T11:05:26.480-04:00State of Service: The next chapter of service<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://profile.ak.fbcdn.net/hprofile-ak-snc4/203577_199973416708115_7680300_n.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 212px;" src="http://profile.ak.fbcdn.net/hprofile-ak-snc4/203577_199973416708115_7680300_n.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:medium;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style=";font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >The AmeriCorps Alum Boston Chapter, along with the MassINC Associate Board present the third in a series of discussions about the state of </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:medium;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style=";font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >service and volunteerism in Massachusetts and nationally. To Register for the event, <a href="http://americorpsalums.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=0655fe43798696eaa75a398af&id=ca96b7b7d2&e=7f628d1309">click here</a><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br /><br /></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:medium;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style=";font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >After a months-long battle in Congress over the future of the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) and service programs across </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:medium;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style=";font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >the nation, the goal of the event is to build upon the strengths of the sector through dialogue around creating pipelines of human </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:medium;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style=";font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:13px;" >capital; effective advocacy for government funding; and communicating the impact of service.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:medium;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style=";font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:13px;" ><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><br /><br />Discussion groups will be led by community leaders from every sector, and participants will have the chance to join working</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:medium;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style=";font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:13px;" > groups to discuss ways to strengthen and promote service in Massachusetts over the coming months.</span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcV8MSly8QatJwm1hq-YRVm6tpkIWw8nn-8gnXfb1YUQMMhiBdLOm76WHyqbf74zpf89Ett0TPzgjnMuJ0iKzJ8bkFGDylyBymy162p-kRZcTVJ2p7isF1fseOK2p-yPH7ixC6TP3Stbvv/"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 254px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcV8MSly8QatJwm1hq-YRVm6tpkIWw8nn-8gnXfb1YUQMMhiBdLOm76WHyqbf74zpf89Ett0TPzgjnMuJ0iKzJ8bkFGDylyBymy162p-kRZcTVJ2p7isF1fseOK2p-yPH7ixC6TP3Stbvv/" alt="" border="0" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;font-family:'Times New Roman';font-size:medium;" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style=";font-family:arial,sans-serif;font-size:13px;" ><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Attendance is limited, to register, <a href="http://americorpsalums.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=0655fe43798696eaa75a398af&id=ca96b7b7d2&e=7f628d1309">click here</a>.<br /><br />This event is made possible with generous support of The Highland Street Foundation and the support of the Massachusetts Service Alliance (MSA), who serves as the fiscal agent of the AmeriCorps Alums Boston Chapter.</span></span>AmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-40475813454425789282011-03-17T14:32:00.002-04:002011-03-17T14:37:02.047-04:00THANK YOU and keep calling!<span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" ><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">Boston Alums -our voices were heard!</span></span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Thanks to you, and thousands of other Alums and supporters across the country, over 10,000 calls were made to Senators this past Tuesday. We made a loud statement that AmeriCorps and the Corporation for National and Community Service matters and needs to be funded for this year.<br /><br />If you were unable to call your Senators Tuesday, it is not too late! The toll-free line remains open: 1-855-US-SERVE </span><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="tel:%281-855-877-3783" target="_blank">(1-855-877-3783</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">). Please continue to spread the word and remind your Senators that we are here and actively engaged. Please also continue to visit </span><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.servicenation.org/page/m/41462502/102d0290/77a41f80/46c1a2c5/3400188530/VEsE/" target="_blank">www.saveservice.org</a><span style="font-weight: bold;"> for updates and informatio</span>AmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-68211345251893335152011-03-13T20:34:00.002-04:002011-03-13T20:43:03.279-04:00SAVE SERVICE -Tuesday, March 15th 2011Hi AmeriCorps Alums and Supporters,<br /><br />The next step in the fight to <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">save service</span> is coming up this <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Tuesday, March 15th</span>. It is coming down to the wire for the Senate to vote on the proposed cuts to eliminate AmeriCorps entirely. It is up to US to let our Senators hear how important AmeriCorps is to us, our communities and our country. There are many groups that are mobilizing to save important causes, and we need to make sure our voice is heard among those groups.<br /><br />We've made the process as easy as possible. You will call <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">1-855-US-SERVE</span> and be asked to enter your zip code. Then, you will hear some talking points and be connected to your senator -it only takes 10 minutes.<br /><br />We are asking everyone to take the pledge to call at www.saveservice.org -by registering, you will receive a reminder email Tuesday AM with the instructions above. Please take the time to call and help us <span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">SAVE SERVICE</span>.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">-The Boston AmeriCorps Alums Board</span>AmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-78872926689496954552011-02-21T17:00:00.002-05:002011-02-21T17:03:40.662-05:00Call you Reps & Stand For AmeriCorps!<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><div><div id="change_BottomBar"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px; font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana,Geneva,sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">The most effective way you can help us Stand For AmeriCorps is to c Your Member of Congress. Voicing your support to your member of congress is one of the easiest and most effective ways to demonstrate your concern for the proposed AmeriCorps budget cuts. If you need help determining the members of your congressional delegation, visit<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.congress.org/" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(137, 17, 49); text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold;">www.congress.org</a>. This database will provide you with contact information for your elected officials. Once connected, identify yourself as a constituent and ask to speak to the Legislative Director or the Legislative Assistant in charge of national service. If calling the House, be sure to voice your thanks or displeasure over how your representative voted (<a href="http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2011/roll147.xml" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(137, 17, 49); text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold;">votes recorded here</a>). Talking points for your call are noted below.</span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /><br />Talking points for Calling members of Congress:</span></div></div><div><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">(Senate only)</span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I am calling to urge you to vote NO on any proposal to eliminate funding for AmeriCorps or the Corporation for National and Community Service.</li><li>The CR will decimate vital services in our communities when millions of Americans need food, shelter, healthcare, job training and educational support.</li><li>Communities are counting on AmeriCorps members, national service participants and community volunteers to meet the increased demand for services.</li><li>Provide an example of your local impact and what will be lost if your program is eliminated. Example: My organization has 140 AmeriCorps members serving in 10 Boston Public Schools. They are providing targeted and school-wide interventions in literacy, match, attendance and classroom behavior. If Congress eliminates AmeriCorps, nearly 2,000 high-risk 3rd-9th graders will no longer receive this additional support in the classroom.</li><li>The CR will only push unemployment rates up. Unemployment numbers -- particularly for young people, veterans and military spouses, older Americans and people of color-remain alarmingly high.</li><li>For Americans who are struggling to find work, national service programs offer participants the opportunity to earn a subsistence-level stipend, develop skills, and create pathways to future employment. Eliminating programs like AmeriCorps will result in jobs lost for the corps members and the staff who supervise them. Example: If Congress eliminates AmeriCorps, our 140 AmeriCorps members and the staff that supervise them will be out of work.</li><li>The federal investment made in faith based and community organizations through the Corporation for National and Community Service leverages $799 million in matching funds from companies, foundations and other sources. If you defund the national service programs, whole organizations will shut down and most will not be able to reopen again even if funding is restored.</li></ul></div></span></span>AmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-20286021456372005442011-02-08T13:29:00.003-05:002011-02-08T13:37:29.766-05:00Bad Press For AmeriCorpsGregory Korte of USA TODAY has written a rather scathing piece about the "pattern" of AmeriCorps fraud going on across the country. In a time where funding for National Service is on the table with the new Congressional session and word that the Segal AmeriCorps Educational Award reform bill has been wiped off the table, this is scary stuff.<div><br /></div><div>You be the judge. Do you think this accurately depicts AmeriCorps?</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; border-collapse: separate; "></span><blockquote><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 25px; border-collapse: separate; ">The top watchdog over AmeriCorps has told Congress that he has found several cases of fraud in the national service program — but that prosecutors won't pursue them.</span><br /><p class="inside-copy" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; border-collapse: separate; "></span></p><p class="inside-copy" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 64px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1em; padding-left: 0px; letter-spacing: 0px; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">In some cases, the alleged fraud involves the misuse of more than $900,000. The acting inspector general for the <a href="http://content.usatoday.com/topics/topic/Corporation+For+National+and+Community+Service" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; cursor: pointer; color: rgb(0, 82, 155); font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; ">Corporation for National and Community Service</a> also says there's a "pattern" of volunteer fraud — grant recipients misusing their time, often for personal gain.</p><p class="inside-copy" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 64px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1em; padding-left: 0px; letter-spacing: 0px; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">Investigators "continue to face challenges in having our investigations accepted" for prosecution, Kenneth Bach said in a December report. Federal prosecutors told him the cases "lack jury appeal" or don't meet a "dollar threshold."</p><p class="inside-copy" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 64px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1em; padding-left: 0px; letter-spacing: 0px; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">The <a href="http://content.usatoday.com/topics/topic/Justice+Department" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; cursor: pointer; color: rgb(0, 82, 155); font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; ">Justice Department</a> would not discuss individual cases, but spokeswoman Jessica Smith said each case is evaluated on a number of standards, including the weight of the evidence.</p><p class="inside-copy" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 64px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1em; padding-left: 0px; letter-spacing: 0px; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">"Procurement fraud and theft of government funds are taken very seriously," Smith said.</p><p class="inside-copy" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 64px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1em; padding-left: 0px; letter-spacing: 0px; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">AmeriCorps is the largest and best-known program run by the $1.1 billion <a href="http://content.usatoday.com/topics/topic/Corporation+For+National+and+Community+Service" title="More news, photos about Corporation for National Service" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; cursor: pointer; color: rgb(0, 82, 155); font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; ">Corporation for National Service</a>, spending $698 million to support 88,530 members who serve in poor communities.</p><p class="inside-copy" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 64px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1em; padding-left: 0px; letter-spacing: 0px; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">Bach declined to speak to USA TODAY. In an internal newsletter last year, he called a recent spate of cases "serious offenses against volunteers and the public's trust." Such scams cost not only taxpayers and communities, but also take "unfair advantage of the highly motivated volunteers."</p><p class="inside-copy" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 64px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1em; padding-left: 0px; letter-spacing: 0px; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">Bach's report and agency records obtained under the Freedom of Information Act show:</p><p class="inside-copy" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 64px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1em; padding-left: 0px; letter-spacing: 0px; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">•Annie Burton-Byrd, the program director of the <a href="http://content.usatoday.com/topics/topic/Martin+Luther+King,+Jr" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; cursor: pointer; color: rgb(0, 82, 155); font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; ">Martin Luther King</a> After-School Program in Baltimore, used five AmeriCorps members to work at her rental management and tree-trimming businesses. Cost to taxpayers: $30,634. She did not return a call seeking comment.</p><p class="inside-copy" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 64px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1em; padding-left: 0px; letter-spacing: 0px; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">(<a href="http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2011-02-08-fraud08_ST_N.htm?csp=usat.me#">Read more</a>)</p><p></p></blockquote><p class="inside-copy" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; line-height: 16px; border-collapse: separate; "></span></p><p class="inside-copy" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 64px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1em; padding-left: 0px; letter-spacing: 0px; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "></p></span><p></p><p class="inside-copy" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: normal; "></p></div><div><br /></div><div><blockquote></blockquote><br /></div>Timhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05540962793500693311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-50665417057982171552011-01-26T15:49:00.001-05:002011-01-26T15:56:28.445-05:00Lead a Project, Win a Volunteer Vacation<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; border-collapse: collapse; "><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; ">Hey Alums!<br /><br />Now that <a href="http://www.americorpsalums.org/link.asp?ymlink=426215&finalurl=http%3A%2F%2Famericorpsalums%2Ewordpress%2Ecom%2F2011%2F01%2F18%2Famericorps%2Dalums%+2+Dchapters%2Dand%2Dalumni%2Dstep%2Dup%2Don%2Dmlk%2Djr%2Dday%2F" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 107, 123); ">MLK, Jr. Day</a> is a success AmeriCorps Alums is turning its attention to <a href="http://www.americorpsalums.org/link.asp?ymlink=426215&finalurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Egethandson%2Ecom%2F" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 107, 123); ">Follow The Leader</a>!(And if you have not already, please take a quick moment to complete the <a href="http://www.americorpsalums.org/link.asp?ymlink=426215&finalurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Eclicktools%2Ecom%2Fsurvey%3Fiv%3D3b12cbc16f73d55" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 107, 123); ">MLK, Jr. Day meriCorps Alums survey</a>)</span><br /><span style="font-size: 10pt; "><p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; ">In the footsteps of our TAG! challenge, <a href="http://www.americorpsalums.org/link.asp?ymlink=426215&finalurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcommunity%2Ehandsonnetwork%2Eorg%2F" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 107, 123); ">Follow the Leader</a> encourages people to turn their service into an ongoing commitment to community change by offering step-by-step playbooks that recreate some of t h e most successful volunteer projects we’ve seen delivered across the nation.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; ">To play Follow the Leader, simply pick a project to replicate (find them <a href="http://www.americorpsalums.org/link.asp?ymlink=426215&finalurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcommunity%2Ehandsonnetwork%2Eorg%2Fplaybooks%2F" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 107, 123); ">here</a>) and then recruit others to join you. Follow the Leader is partnering with Crowdrise, which will give you an opportunity to raise funds with your social networks to make your project incredibly successful.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; ">Completing and reporting back on a project will earn you a shot at winning the Grand Prize: an all expense paid trip for two to the Philippines for a one week "Volunteer Vacation” coordinated by HandsOn Manila, that includes airfare, fees and six night’s lodging! You could also win these monthly prizes...</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; "><strong>January</strong>:iPad for you and $2,500 grant for your cause</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; "><strong>February</strong>: All expense paid trip for two and two tickets to the Tribute event in Washington DC in March 2011</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; "><strong>March</strong>:All expense paid trip for 2 to the National Conference on Volunteering and Service in New Orleans - June 6-8, 2011</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; "><strong>April</strong>:iPad for you and $2,500 grant for your cause</span></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; "><strong>May</strong>:All expense paid trip for two for taping of Curb Appeal: The Block with John Gidding</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; ">So what are you waiting for? <a href="http://www.americorpsalums.org/link.asp?ymlink=426215&finalurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcommunity%2Ehandsonnetwork%2Eorg%2Fplaybooks%2F" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 107, 123); ">Let's Play!</a></span></p><><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; ">In service,</span><p><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; ">The AmeriCorps Alums Team</span></p></span></span>Timhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05540962793500693311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-30211961360284277912011-01-20T22:12:00.001-05:002011-01-20T22:15:16.055-05:00We Need You -Join a committee this week!<span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0); font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Step up to lead in service! </span><br /><br />With MLK day just a few days behind us, we imagine many of you are thinking about how you can continue the commitment to serve and lead in your community. Lucky for you, the AmeriCorps Alums Board is thinking about it too! We have two great opportunities for you to SERVE and LEAD. We are looking for Alums who want to serve on short-term committees for two exciting upcoming events. Please read below and email us if you are interested in joining us. Because these events are coming up soon, please email us at americorpsalumsboston@gmail.com by JANUARY 30th if you are interested!<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Mass Service Alliance Annual Conference: Alumni Track</span></span> –MSA is looking to create a track specifically for AmeriCorps Alums at their annual conference this May. MSA has recently shown their support for AmeriCorps Alums by signing on to be our fiscal agent! Now, we want to show our support to them by partnering to create a conference track that is meaningful and beneficial to Alums. Are you interested in helping? Email us!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);">State of Service Part 3: Put yourself on the map</span></span>- This year, AmeriCorps Alums partnered with MassInc to host a series of conversations on the state of service in Massachusetts. We have held successful events in Boston and Worcester, and are in the planning phases of our third and final event. We have an AWESOME idea that we are really excited about, but are looking for more input and feedback. Are you interested in helping? Email us!AmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-43523284597332218302011-01-10T22:41:00.000-05:002011-01-10T22:42:38.051-05:00VISTA Alums event<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;">Calling all Boston area VISTA alumni! VISTA alum, Maureen O'Connor will read from her new book, <i><span style="font-style: italic;">Knocking on Doors: VISTA Volunteers Remember 1965-71</span></i> this Thursday, January 13th at 7pm. VISTAs featured in the book will also be present at the reading including Monique and Ray Magliozzi (of NPR’s <i><span style="font-style: italic;">Car Talk</span></i>), Sue Devins, John Dempsey, Paul Casilli, Kate Novak, Sally Waldron and Jay Critchley. Jamaica Plain Branch Library, 12 Sedgwick St., Jamaica Plain, <a href="http://www.bpl.org/" target="_blank">http://www.bpl.org</a>. </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;"> </span></span></p>AmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-24101182019573279262010-12-22T10:06:00.008-05:002010-12-22T10:24:58.005-05:00Beyond Your Year of Service: AC Alums-Heller Event Recap<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=185815384767040&set=a.185814624767116.51609.127296847285561"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2qoIc0bnX_rsIvF5yYLa7L-_h7y8J8P-ShsmVhsQiKDyuc32yfexxSSCviFzWmuL_3jmkV-UMWe55VJqtxFxexSNLwPJ5y9yUhcEf-JpJeALnprbqaSGOorRbyiUTu6murZnBMeyIfE2b/s320/1127807545_americorps_alums_47.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553524132153822066" border="0" /></a><br /><br />On December 8th, nearly 100 Americorps Alums, current members and students, faculty and friends of Heller School gathered at <a href="http://workbarboston.com/">WorkBar </a>in downtown Boston for "Beyond Your Service Year: AmeriCorps Alums Networking Social Featuring the Heller School".<br /><br />The goals of the event were to build the AmeriCorps Alums community in Boston and showcase the unique partnership with the <a href="http://heller.brandeis.edu/">Heller School at Brandeis</a> who has invested $1M in exclusive scholarships through the National Service Scholarship Program.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=185814634767115&set=a.185814624767116.51609.127296847285561"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_9sedtbEYWuPbTUI_V7NDwiAvdihJGBtVZ2ZfE_MkJpdcBMeaoUew4wsqXj2x0YLvM1e_VLgPUiVi-toMvcbkM5bofhVPFmynzS7oc3q2vkhDB0rYv6-T_84GkAiEguAHuuVtFmrAWb7/s200/1127810705_americorps_alums_00.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553526519833681010" border="0" /></a>This one-of-a-kind National Service Scholarship Program is designed to honor national and community service by recognizing those who have served in AmeriCorps. <a href="http://americorpsalums.wordpress.com/2009/10/23/brandeiss-heller-school-announces-scholarship-for-americorps-alums/">Click here</a> to learn more about our partnership with the Heller School.<br /><br />After being welcomed and inspired by Mary Bruce, Co-Chair of Boston AmeriCorps Alums Board, and Tom Broussard, Associate Dean of Admissions & Career Services for the Heller School, attendees had the opportunity to participate in either an <a href="http://heller.brandeis.edu/academic/mba/index.html">MBA </a>/ <a href="http://heller.brandeis.edu/academic/sid/index.html">International Development</a> or <a href="http://heller.brandeis.edu/academic/mpp/index.html">MPP </a>panel to learn more about each program. Current Heller faculty and students, who are also AmeriCorps Alums, spoke about how their service experience influenced their decision to apply for business or policy school, and how their service background makes for a good match with Heller.<br /><br />WorkBar, with brand new offices at 711 Atlantic Avenue, hosted the event for the second year in a row and provided an ideal venue for networking and convening service-minded idealists.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=185815384767040&set=a.185814624767116.51609.127296847285561">Click here</a> to see great photos from the event shot by Melissa Blackall (AmeriCorps Alum). Like her photos? <a href="http://www.melissablackallphotography.com/">Visit her web site</a>.<a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=185815678100344&set=a.185814624767116.51609.127296847285561"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsZvxKOuWuO86pzGNPzksjYVc_LatuGhdP7q_9RWz26GKfPgUtlxuV7I2YoGHcn_NOlkX3YEzWu9nqJz2h1InUJLtmsmOu66z-smt8mFJf87wElSsEH3SWxOnO6LpeJnxg-K38vcrh8xvN/s320/1127808491_americorps_alums_34.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553527247300930034" border="0" /></a><br /><br />If you are you interested in applying to the Heller School for Fall 2011 and being considered for one of the AmeriCorps Alums scholarships (up to full tuition), <a href="http://heller.brandeis.edu/admissions/">click here</a> for more information about the application process.<br /><br />The Boston AmeriCorps Alums Board would like to thank everyone who supported the event including Tom Broussard, Denise Riebman and Shana Mongan of the Heller School, Co-Event Organizers Andrea Shaye and Molly Preston from the Heller School (and AmeriCorps Alums), Melissa for shooting the event, Evona from WorkBar for being an ideal host and the many, many Harpoon bottles who brought holiday cheer to all.AmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-16182756132435745992010-11-23T11:51:00.001-05:002010-11-23T11:52:09.900-05:00AmeriCorps Alums Store - Holiday Special<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0039/2282/products/holidayspecial2011_medium.png?1287601347"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 240px;" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0039/2282/products/holidayspecial2011_medium.png?1287601347" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.americorpsalumsstore.com/products/holiday-special">AmeriCorps Alums - Holiday Special</a><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; color: rgb(102, 102, 102); font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; "><div style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1; ">$10 Savings on AmeriCorps Alums gear that includes:<br /></div><div style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1; ">- Black heavy cotton hooded sweatshirt<br />- Heavy weight maroon cap<br />- Window cling<br />- Lapel Pin</div><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 1em; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1; position: relative; line-height: 1.5em; "><strong style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-weight: bold; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1; ">Regular price: $52.76<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-weight: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-family: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; zoom: 1; ">Sale Price: $42.00</span></strong></p></span></div>Timhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05540962793500693311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-40724067129993137462010-11-17T13:20:00.003-05:002010-11-17T13:23:29.350-05:00Beyond Your Service Year: AmeriCorps Alums Networking Social with the Heller School at Brandeis<div style="width:100%; text-align:left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(0, 119, 179); "><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; ">Come out for a fun night of socializing and networking with fellow AmeriCorps Alums in the Boston area.<span> </span>Join us downtown at WorkBar – a cool venue that supports entrepreneurs during the day, and connects like-minded professionals in the evening.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; ">This event is also a great opportunity to learn more about our amazing partnership with the <strong>Heller School who has invested $1M in exclusive scholarships for AmeriCorps Alums</strong>.<span> </span>Through the<em><a href="http://americorpsalums.wordpress.com/2009/10/23/brandeiss-heller-school-announces-scholarship-for-americorps-alums/" style="color: rgb(0, 119, 179); text-decoration: underline; ">National Service Scholarship Program</a></em>, the Heller School <span>seeks to recognize the contributions AmeriCorps Alums have made to civic engagement and the greater good through service to communities across the country.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; "></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; ">Wednesday, December 8<br />6:30-8:30 PM</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; ">Hosted by <a href="http://workbarboston.com/" style="color: rgb(0, 119, 179); text-decoration: underline; ">WorkBar</a><br />711 Atlantic Avenue (across from South Station)</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; ">Space is Limited! Reserve your spot today by clicking the link below...</p><p></p></span></div><div style="width:100%; text-align:left;"><br /></div><div style="width:100%; text-align:left;"><iframe src="http://www.eventbrite.com/tickets-external?eid=1029315711&ref=etckt" frameborder="0" height="192" width="100%" vspace="0" hspace="0" marginheight="5" marginwidth="5" scrolling="auto" allowtransparency="true"></iframe><div style="font-family:Helvetica, Arial; font-size:10px; padding:5px 0 5px; margin:2px; width:100%; text-align:left;"><a style="color:#ddd; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank" href="http://www.eventbrite.com/features?ref=etckt">Online Ticketing</a><span style="color:#ddd;"> for </span><a style="color:#ddd; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank" href="http://acalums.eventbrite.com/?ref=etckt">Beyond Your Service Year: AmeriCorps Alums Networking Social with the Heller School at Brandeis</a><span style="color:#ddd;"> powered by </span><a style="color:#ddd; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank" href="http://www.eventbrite.com/?ref=etckt">Eventbrite</a></div><div style="font-family:Helvetica, Arial; font-size:10px; padding:5px 0 5px; margin:2px; width:100%; text-align:left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(0, 119, 179); ">See you there!<br />- The AmeriCorps Alums Boston Board</span></div></div>Timhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05540962793500693311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-54967283708757810022010-09-16T20:44:00.005-04:002010-09-17T07:49:58.458-04:00FREE BEER<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_v1U0VRS93Yk/TJK6XsiPW1I/AAAAAAAAADI/zU5SdS_WkgI/s1600/Harpoon.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_v1U0VRS93Yk/TJK6XsiPW1I/AAAAAAAAADI/zU5SdS_WkgI/s200/Harpoon.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517677409736809298" /></a><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_v1U0VRS93Yk/TJK6XsiPW1I/AAAAAAAAADI/zU5SdS_WkgI/s1600/Harpoon.jpg"></a><span class="Apple-style-span"><u><br /></u></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; color: rgb(0, 119, 179); "><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; "><span>Do we have your attention now? </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; "><span><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; "><span>Thought so. On Wednesday, September 29<sup>th</sup> from 5:30-7 PM, join your fellow AmeriCorps Alums for a <strong>FREE BEER</strong> tasting at the Harpoon Brewery at 306 Northern Ave in Boston, courtesy of the good folks at Harpoon. We’ll get beer tasting tips from the Harpoon beer experts and get to sample <strong>FREE BEER </strong>like Harpoon IPA and UFO, as well as the latest offering from Harpoon’s famous 100 Barrel Series, the Glacier Harvest 2010 Wet Hop Ale. You gave a year of service, now let us give you some <strong>FREE BEER! </strong></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; "><br /><br /><span><a href="http://acalumsboston.eventbrite.com/" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_v1U0VRS93Yk/TJK6A0CgGZI/AAAAAAAAADA/EOWFDrutoyg/s200/Register.jpg" alt="Register button" /><br /></a><br /></span></p><br /><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; "><span><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-left: 0px; "><span>For more information, email Chris Bentson at chris@cradlestocrayons.org</span></p></span></div>Timhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05540962793500693311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-44698228170870417022010-08-25T19:41:00.003-04:002010-08-25T19:45:10.811-04:00SAVE THE DATE: Harpoon Brewery Social Event<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bostonist.com/attachments/rickbang/harpoon-brewery.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 450px; height: 334px;" src="http://bostonist.com/attachments/rickbang/harpoon-brewery.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" border-collapse: collapse; font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">Fellow Alums,</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">It is my distinct pleasure to present to you a ray of sunshine to cut through the grey skies of this dreary evening. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">Our first social event of the year is officially on the books for <b>Wednesday, September 29<sup>th</sup> at the Harpoon Brewery Tap Room</b> at 306 Northern Ave in Boston. We’ll have the room from 5:30-7 PM with some of freshest beer this side of Belgium.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">As the day gets closer we’ll have plenty of details to nail down, but I wanted to make sure everyone got the date on their calendar!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; "><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">Stay tuned for more details!</p></span>Timhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05540962793500693311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-1223288771869632042010-07-28T11:18:00.004-04:002010-07-28T11:23:31.860-04:00Looking for a job? AC Alums Can Help!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://cdn.sheknows.com/articles/dog_money.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 325px; height: 471px;" src="http://cdn.sheknows.com/articles/dog_money.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>
<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" border-collapse: collapse; font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;">When it comes to careers AmeriCorps Alums is TOP DOG!</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size:-webkit-xxx-large;">
<br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" border-collapse: collapse; font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;">They've invested time and resources in understanding careers that are specific to you, and that’s why, through the AmeriCorps Alums website, they are able to offer you the best jobs and best exposure for your resume!
<br />
<br />Employers come to AmeriCorps Alums <<a href="http://www.jobtarget.com/home/index.cfm?site_id=797" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 107, 123); ">http://www.jobtarget.com/<wbr>home/index.cfm?site_id=797</a>> to search our resumes and post their openings for jobs specifically in our industry!
<br />
<br />Post your resume, <<a href="http://www.jobtarget.com/c/resumes/index.cfm?site_id=797" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 107, 123); ">http://www.jobtarget.com/c/<wbr>resumes/index.cfm?site_id=797</a>>
<br />search our job listings, <<a href="http://www.jobtarget.com/c/search.cfm?site_id=797" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 107, 123); ">http://www.jobtarget.com/c/<wbr>search.cfm?site_id=797</a>>
<br />or set up a job alert on our site <<a href="http://www.jobtarget.com/c/agents/index.cfm?site_id=797" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(25, 107, 123); ">http://www.jobtarget.com/c/<wbr>agents/index.cfm?site_id=797</a>>
<br />and let the Top Dog career site work for you!
<br /></span></div>Timhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05540962793500693311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-88075192500649257232010-07-22T20:36:00.003-04:002010-07-28T11:25:11.336-04:00State of Service - Policy PlatformBy April 2011 we aim to establish Massachusetts as the nation’s first State of Service.<br /><br />Based on the insights and recommendations of thought leaders from across the state at June 8’s State of Service discussion, (sponsored by MassINC and AmeriCorps Alums Boston and made possible with the generous support of the Highland Street Foundation, ZipCar and State Street), we have outlined a draft State of Service Policy Platform. The full policy platform is below.<br /><br /><strong>As a next step, we would like your feedback on this policy platform</strong>. What do you like? What have we left out? How could it be improved? And, <strong>if you are an organizational leader</strong>, would you like to add your organization to the growing list of those that have endorsed this platform?<br /><br />To provide feedback to this policy platfrom, to get involved with the State of Service initiative, or to add your organization to the list of endorsing organizations, please email Boston AmeriCorps Alums at americorpsalumsboston@gmail.com or post to this blog!<br /><br />Also, two additional State of Service events are planned in the fall/winter of 2010. More details coming soon!<br /><strong>===================================<br />Massachusetts: The Nation’s First State of Service<br />Background and Policy Platform, July 2010<br /></strong><br /><strong>OVERVIEW:</strong>The MassINC Associate Board and AmeriCorps Alums Boston Chapter are working to make Massachusetts the nation’s first official “State of Service.” The initiative, which began as a series of state-wide events in the summer and fall of 2010 to engage a broad set of stakeholders, is particularly timely as the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act was signed into law just over one year ago. This legislation authorized the largest expansion of national service in America since Franklin Roosevelt created the Civilian Conservation Corps. The idea of a State of Service builds off the hugely successful Cities of Service program, a bipartisan coalition of 101 mayors around the country who are working to develop comprehensive city-wide service plans and engage their citizens in solving local problems. States of Service will develop service plans and engage citizens state-wide. Given the rich history of service in Massachusetts communities, our goal is to lead the country in becoming the first official State of Service.<br /><br /><strong>PROGRESS AND NEXT STEPS:</strong><br />The first in the series of state-wide discussions took place on June 8, 2010 with the generous support of the Highland Street Foundation, ZipCar and State Street. Over 100 individuals from across the state attended, representing stakeholders from higher education, program evaluation, government, international service, local service providers and area coalitions. We gathered feedback from attendees and used it to inform the draft policy platform that follows below. Two additional events are planned in the fall/winter of 2010. By April 2011 we aim to establish Massachusetts as the nation’s first State of Service. Over the coming months we will:<br />• Solicit feedback on the policy platform from a diverse group of stakeholders<br />• Refine the policy platform<br />• Form a State of Service coalition comprised of all interested organizations in Massachusetts<br />• Formalize coalition members’ commitment by having them sign on to the policy platform<br />• Get each of the three gubernatorial candidates to endorse the policy platform<br />• Turn the platform into state-level legislation, and have it passed in the first 100 days of the new governor’s term<br /><br /><strong>POLICY PLATFORM:<br /></strong>As the nation’s first State of Service, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts pledges to:<br /><strong>Strengthen existing service-related policy:<br /></strong>• Create a cabinet-level Chief State Service Officer<br />• Identify clear areas for collaboration with the Social Innovation Compact<br />• Leverage service as a tool for community impact within government agencies<br />• Create financial incentives for organizations to support employee service initiatives<br />• Strengthen discussion among state-level policy makers, between states and cities, and among cities across the state<br /><strong>Promote stakeholder engagement:<br /></strong>• Create an online inventory of service providers, partners, and opportunities as well as forums for best practices, collaboration, and content expertise<br />• Encourage stakeholders–especially service providers and funders–to form partnerships and align priorities by issue area and across geographic locations<br />• Hold quarterly forums to engage stakeholders from across the service sector<br />• Engage small businesses as well as corporations in the service discussion, for example by encouraging them to offer incentives for employees to volunteer<br />• Build university partnerships to reward service with scholarships (e.g. “Give a Year Schools”)<br />• Host a national State of Service Conference, with Massachusetts as the leading model<br /><strong>Conduct research:<br /></strong>• Find and support areas of alignment between international and domestic service<br />• Identify causes of silos within the service community and define strategies to break them down<br />• Measure the effects of service on participants as well as community/issue areaAmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-21676478552602783472010-06-11T13:59:00.002-04:002010-06-11T14:04:47.001-04:00I serve, you serve... WE SERVE<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.americorpsalums.org/resource/resmgr/best_photos/weserve_shirt_at_seadogs_gam.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 667px;" src="http://www.americorpsalums.org/resource/resmgr/best_photos/weserve_shirt_at_seadogs_gam.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><u><br /></u></span></div><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family:Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; "><span style="font-weight: normal; ">According to the </span><a href="http://www.americorpsalums.org/link.asp?ymlink=242892&finalurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Eamericorps%2Egov" target="_blank" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Corporation for National and Community Service</span></a>, there are over 600,000 national service alumni... and we've only been able to reach about 1/5.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 0px; "><span style="font-weight: normal; ">Most AmeriCorps members don't know that they have to register with </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><a href="http://www.americorpsalums.org/">AmeriCorps Alums</a></span><span style="font-weight: normal; ">. Most believe that like after college you are automatically in the alumni group. But because AmeriCorps is a government-managed program, we don't have access to invite all alumni to become a part of our community.<br /><br /></span></p><div>Just fill out the form below, <span style="font-style: italic; ">even if you are already registered with americorpsalums.org</span>, to join the <span style="font-weight: bold; ">WE SERVE </span>campaign! (subject to verification of your service)<br /><br />Once verified, you will be emailed a <a href="http://www.americorpsalumsstore.com/" target="_blank" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">coupon code for 15% </span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><a href="http://www.americorpsalumsstore.com/" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">off the</span> </a><a href="http://www.americorpsalumsstore.com/">AmeriCorps Alums store</a></span> and entered to win one of <span style="font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline; ">ten gift cards to Target worth $100 a piece.</span><br /><br />To be entered into the Grand Prize drawing we need you to tell people! Simply copy/paste the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><a href="http://www.americorpsalums.org/?weserveshare">sample email here</a></span> and send to your alum friends! At the conclusion of the contest, the top 25 referrals will be put in a drawing for the CELEBRITY GRAND PRIZE! The <span style="font-weight: bold; ">WE SERVE</span> contest kicks off June 7th and will end at 5pm EST, June 30th. You only need to fill out the form once, as duplicate entries will be discarded. Contest rules are <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><a href="http://www.americorpsalums.org/?weserverules">here</a></span>.</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center; "><span style="font-weight: bold; font-size:14pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><a href="http://www.americorpsalums.org/?weserveshare">GET SAMPLE EMAILS, FACEBOOK STUFF, AND TWEETS TO SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS HERE!</a></span></span></div></div></span>Timhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05540962793500693311noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-34073327548950206962010-06-09T10:19:00.002-04:002010-06-09T15:51:39.398-04:00State of Service event draws big crowd to build up community service in the Bay State<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_v1U0VRS93Yk/TA_wwHnxfEI/AAAAAAAAABo/vzDIg-1n7y4/s1600/State+of+Service+Pics+069.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_v1U0VRS93Yk/TA_wwHnxfEI/AAAAAAAAABo/vzDIg-1n7y4/s320/State+of+Service+Pics+069.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480863981003439170" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 18px; font-family:Arial, 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Grande', Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:12px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 18px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><i>courtesy of MassINC.org</i></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 18px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 18px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Making connections was the theme of the day as approximately 100 people gathered this morning at the sold out MassINC Associate Board and AmeriCorps Alums Boston event, “State of Service: Massachusetts Leading the Nation’s Call to Serve” at the UMass Club.</span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 18px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">The event, the first in a series about improving service programming in Massachusetts, brought together key service organizations to build on the state’s active and deep-rooted service community. Organizers hope to leverage this event series to create a blueprint of best-practices and turn Massachusetts into a model of service for the nation. MassINC Director of Finance and Operations and founder of the Associate Board, Aimee Ward, said today’s discussion was an excellent start. </span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 18px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 18px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 18px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">“We had a room full of energetic stakeholders generating new ideas and sharing their successes today. We hope this discussion and our upcoming State of Service events will guide developing leaders in the local and national service community,” said Ward.</span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 18px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">The breakfast event was kicked off with a keynote address by Joseph Porcelli, Chief Executive Neighbor of Neighbors for Neighbors, and was followed by discussion among participants with topics ranging from best practices for volunteer recruitment to what can be done to improve collaboration among organizations and individuals. </span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 18px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">The use of technology to facilitate collaboration among organizations was a recurring point as attendees shared their thoughts with event moderators. In particular, improved online networks and a web portal that includes all sectors and organizations were cited as lacking in Massachusetts.</span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 18px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Known nationally as a hotbed for service enlistment and innovation, with examples such as City Year and Citizen Schools, Massachusetts has much to offer other states hoping to step up their service efforts. With the landmark Edward M Kennedy Serve America Act fueling new organizations around the country, event organizers said now is the time to turn discussion into action.</span></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">“Ultimately, this is about improving the communities in which we live. These discussions are a great way to establish the connections that provide these individuals and organizations the resources they need to make a difference,” said Ward. </span></span>Timhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05540962793500693311noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-20979802037363234252010-06-02T12:22:00.002-04:002010-06-02T12:29:26.564-04:00The State Of Service!<div><img src="http://template.mailchimp.com/acalums/state_of_service__063339.jpg" align="bottom" width="300" height="129" border="0" /><p></p></div><div><br /></div>The MassINC Associate Board and the AmeriCorps Alums Boston Chapter, are hosting a State of Service discussion on June 8th, 2010 from 8 to 10 am at the UMass Club in Boston. The event will feature a keynote and facilitated discussions led by community leaders in the private sector, nonprofit sector, government, and philanthropy.<br /><br />The State of Service event will be the first in an ongoing series through the summer and fall of 2010 which will bring together leaders from across the service community to discuss their experiences and develop a blueprint of best practices with a goal of improving service in Massachusetts and establishing a state service model for the nation.<br /><br />To Register, Click here:<div><br /><a href="http://stateofservicema.eventbrite.com/"><img src="http://template.mailchimp.com/acalums/reg_buttn__060704.jpg" align="bottom" width="90" height="23" border="0" alt="Registration" /></a><br /><br />---<br /><br />WHAT:<br />The State Of Service<br /><br />WHEN:<br />June 8th, 8:00am-10:00am<br /><br />WHERE:<br />The UMass Club<br />225 Franklin Street, 33rd Floor, Boston, MA 02110</div><div><br /></div><div>---</div><div><br /></div><div>Only A few spots left! Register Today!</div><div><br /><div><br /><a href="http://stateofservicema.eventbrite.com/"><img src="http://template.mailchimp.com/acalums/reg_buttn__060704.jpg" align="bottom" width="90" height="23" border="0" alt="Registration" /></a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> Make sure to note that you are an AmeriCorps Alum and will be given special preference!</div></div>Timhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05540962793500693311noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-20622034257973688492010-05-07T10:12:00.004-04:002010-05-07T10:22:56.895-04:00Check out AmeriCorps Alums in Ted Kennedy Tribute VideoLast month, Be The Change and Service Nation put out a video response request to a Tribute Video of the Late Senator Edward Kennedy and several AmeriCorps Alum, Staff, and current members submitted their own stories (including Boston AmeriCorps Alums Board member, Sean mcDevitt). To view the original video, check out their YouTube Channel at <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/bethechangeinc">http://www.youtube.com/user/bethechangeinc</a><br /><br /><object width="400" height="319"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/e5fRlJpA0rs&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x006699&color2=0x54abd6&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/e5fRlJpA0rs&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x006699&color2=0x54abd6&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="445" height="364"></embed></object>Timhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05540962793500693311noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-66662783263061398332010-05-06T10:32:00.005-04:002010-05-06T10:40:44.493-04:00Let's keep the momentum going!Today is day 6 of voting for AmeriCorps Alums in the Pepsi Refresh Project. We're currently ranked #24, but need to be in the top 10 by the end of the month to earn the $50K so don’t forget to vote and remind your friends to vote. We really appreciate your efforts in helping us to build healthy communities through your leadership!<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.refresheverything.com/widget/?i=a5af666b-a94c-4302-808d-57405f1d475a&w=300&mc=333333" width="300" height="255" scrolling='no' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><br />Here's how you can help:<br /><br />- Vote once a day here: www.refresheverything.com/americorpsalums<br /><br />- Pledge your daily vote and sign up for reminders here: www.americorpsalums.org/?PepsiVote<br /><br />- Share with your friends! Here’s a nice quick link to use: http://pep.si/bPDkTF<br /><br />- Not sure what to say to encourage your friends? Check out our handy pre-made reminders for Facebook, Twitter, and Email <a href="http://www.americorpsalums.org/?pepsirefreshtoolkit">here</a>: <br /><br /><br />Remember, there are lots of winners and you get 10 votes a day so don’t forget to also vote for our partner, City Year!<br /><br /><br /><br />Thank you for all you do and for supporting us and service!Timhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05540962793500693311noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-11136164678413442892010-05-05T09:54:00.002-04:002010-05-05T10:42:45.441-04:00Segal AmeriCorps Education Award Tax Relief Act Gains a new Co-Sponsor<div><img src="http://www.govtrack.us/data/photos/412253-100px.jpeg" alt="412253-100px.jpeg" title="412253-100px.jpeg"><br /></div>Rep. Laura Richardson [D-CA37] became the 64th Co-sponsor of the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award Tax Relief Act of 2009 last week. This bill would amend the tax code to "exclude from gross income for income tax purposes AmeriCorps educational awards awarded under the National and Community Service Act of 1990." Meaning, the Ed Award wouldn't be taxed. This bill has been in the works for quite a while and is still in only the first stage of the legislative process, but any news is good news on this front!<br /> <br /><div>Feel free to thank Rep. Richardson for standing with AmeriCorps Alums!<br /><br />You can read the full text of the bill, if you're interested, <a href="http://www.govtrack.us/congress/billtext.xpd?bill=h111-1596">here</a></div>AmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-46935636342373234612010-04-20T22:29:00.000-04:002010-04-20T22:30:36.845-04:00Spring In Boston -Come Join UsHi Boston AmeriCorps Alums,<br /><br />Global Youth Service Day is coming up April 24th. We are encouraging alums to volunteer with City Year Boston in helping clean up and transform the John Marshall School in Dorchester. If you are interested in volunteering, email Morgan Parnell at mparnell10@cityyear.org. <br /><br />On April 27th, join AmeriCorps current Corps Members and Alums for a Life After AmeriCorps Fair at Wheelock College (43 Hawes St Brookline). This event is being hosted by the InterCorps Council and funded by the Mass Service Alliance. For more information, check out the Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=112483485444497&ref=nf<br /><br />Another great event is coming up on Aril 29th. Join Young Nonprofit Professionals Network (YNPN), MassINC, New Prosperity Initiative and Net Impact Boston for a night of networking. At least 10 AmeriCorps Alums have already signed up, and we are hoping to have a large presence there. The event is being held 4/29 from 7-10pm at Ned Devine’s in Fanieul Hall. To sign up, go to: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/634032408<br /><br />AmeriCorps Week is coming up May 8-15th. AmeriCorps Alums will be hosting a special event on Tuesday, May 12th on financial literacy, put on by Onein3 at City Year Headquarters on 287 Columbus Ave. Look for a Facebook invitation to come in the next week or two. <br /><br />City Year is also holding their annual Serve-A-Thon Fundraiser on Saturday, May 22nd. For more information, contact the Serve-A-thon team at serveathonboston@cityyear.org or call 617-927-2300. <br /><br />Finally, we have some exciting updates about the Serve America Act coming up soon. Keep checking in for the latest updates!<br /><br />If you haven’t already, please join our Facebook group http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=2231449160&ref=tsAmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-19223154071478309132010-01-20T19:03:00.002-05:002010-01-20T20:36:32.255-05:00Boston Chapter Alums Celebrates 2010 MLK Day of Service at Northeastern University600 lives saved. Not a bad goal for a service project. Even better for one dreamed up by the collaborative efforts of an active AmeriCorps member and three Northeastern University students as part of a service and leadership activity created by Boston area AmeriCorps alums.<br /><br />AmeriCorps Alums Boston celebrated Martin Luther King Day by serving as educators at <a href="http://www.northeastern.edu/news/stories/2010/01/MLKday.html">Northeastern University's MLK Day of Service</a>. Through several emails and brainstorming sessions, alums were able to create an activity centered around the themes of service and leadership. After a brief introduction to AmeriCorps and each alum's service experiences, an icebreaker started the session off: piecing together a puzzle of different MLK quotes. Participants were asked to list nine ideas for service projects they would like to see performed in their community. Each individual then looked for service themes within their list i.e. environmental, community building, health and safety. Small groups, formed during the icebreaker, looked for common themes from which a service project could be developed. In addition to a blood drive (as mentioned earlier), service projects ranged from community building block parties to connecting middle-school students with musicians.<br /><br /><a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/americorpsalumsboston/AmeriCorpsAlumsBoston#5280796100716700274">Check out the event pictures!</a>AmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-14393441804456877602009-11-18T20:13:00.001-05:002009-11-18T20:16:04.352-05:00Upcoming EventsWe have some exciting projects and events coming up, and we need YOUR support!!!<br /><br />Two Great Volunteer Opportunities:<br /><br />1. MLK DAY –Monday, January 18th –our Chapter will be partnering with Mass Promise Fellows Program & the Northeastern Center of Community Service to lead a large scale MLK day project to engage over 200 students, youth and community members. Boston Alums will be planning and implementing a leadership workshop that we will present several times over the course of the day. The theme is focused on service and leadership, and we have the opportunity to develop a workshop as we see fit. We are open to ideas and looking for interested members to serve on a planning committee. If interested, please email us at americorpsalumsboston@gmail.com Space on this committee is limited, but we will send out more opportunities for Alums to participate and serve on MLK day as it gets closer. <br /><br />2. POTLUCK FOR CURRENT MEMBERS –Friday, January 22nd -We are planning a potluck dinner for a local group of hard-working AmeriCorps members, SCI Dorchester at Dotwell. This event is one of the many ways that Alums are reaching our goal of supporting current members, and is also a chance to get people together for a fun social event. Chad Ross Baker, a City Year Alum, has agreed to host the dinner at his house. If you are interested in attending and contributing, please email him at chrobaker@gmail.com. We are looking for 15-20 Alums to participate!<br /><br />Finally, we have an Alums Happy Hour coming up soon. Join us Tuesday, December 1st at 7:00pm at Tavern in the Square in Porter Square (1815 Mass Ave Cambridge –Red Line MBTA). If you have not come out to an event yet, join us for this fun and relaxed chance to socialize and get to know one another. We hope to see you there!AmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5278464342502315022.post-41087025501463821712009-11-08T20:10:00.003-05:002009-11-08T20:15:20.466-05:00UPCOMING EVENTS<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(204, 0, 0);"><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">December 1st -HAPPY HOUR 7pm -Tavern in the Square -Porter Square -Cambridge<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 51, 0);">January 12th -COMMUNITY MEETING 6:30-8:00pm -Milky Way Lounge -284 Amory Street, Jamaica Plain www.milkywayjp.com<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 0, 51);">January 18th - MLK DAY SERVICE EVENT -details TBA</span><br /></span></span></span></span>AmeriCorps Alums Bostonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18013053840973170179noreply@blogger.com