Join AmeriCorps

The Keystone SMILES AmeriCorps program engages members in two different program initiatives. 

School-based programs focus on tutoring, mentoring, alternative education, and service learning programs.  All school-based programs are full time AmeriCorps positions.

Click here for the details of the following school based programs -

Community-based programs exist in Clarion, Lawrence, Mercer, and Venango Counties.  Members serve in after school, summer, preschool, and safe haven programs.  Positions may include: full time/half time/reduced half time/quarter time/ and minimum time opportunities.

2017-2018 AmeriCorps Application

Click Here to open application in new window  

Keystone SMILES AmeriCorps Applicants Must:

• Be at least 17 yrs. of age

• Complete and submit Part I, II, III and IV of the online application which includes 2 references, enrollment paperwork, certification, verification and provide proof of the following:

  • Birth Date / Age (must be at least 17 years old) - Driver’s License, or Photo ID – Valid government issued Photo ID

  • Education (must have a high school diploma, GED, or agree to obtain one) – Verification of education must be submitted.

  • Social Security Card – Social Security Card (must be signed); Social Security Benefit Statement; or DD-214

  • Proof of US Citizen (must be US citizen or US national or lawful permanent resident alien of the US) - NOTICE OF REGISTRATION OF BIRTH IS NOT A VALID DOCUMENT TO PROVE CITIZENSHIP

• Be a High School Graduate or agree to obtain a high school diploma or GED before the end of their term

• Agree to have a criminal record check, FBI, sex offender and a child abuse clearance

If Selected, AmeriCorps Members must:

• Participate in SMILES member development program, including member trainings, an online service-learning training and Community Emergency Response Team training

• Have a criminal record check, FBI, sex offender and a child abuse clearance

• Make commitment to fulfilling a minimum number of hours and completing their entire term of service.

• Complete data collection reports

• Believe in “Getting Things Done!” 

1. First, one must explore and understand the AmeriCorps program. This program is administered by Keystone SMILES, which is a nonprofit organization responsible for the implementation of the AmeriCorps federal grant program. All potential members must understand the AmeriCorps program requirements and design.   To learn more about AmeriCorps State Program go to www.americorps.gov 

2. The applicant must complete and submit online Part I of the application to Keystone SMILES accessible at the top of this page.  

3. The applicant must submit via mail Part II of the application which is a downloadable PDF file that can be found at the top of the page.  Part II PDF consists of a certification page, clearance applications and agreements and an eligibility form.  All these items are to be completed and mailed to Keystone SMILES. 

4. The applicant must have TWO people complete our online reference form, or the applicant can download and print the reference form for someone to complete.  (links found at top of this page

Upon receipt of Part I - III of your application, interviews will be scheduled by the host site you are interested in serving. Keystone SMILES personnel will meet with all applicants to be sure the applicant understands the AmeriCorps requirements for enrollment.

The host site makes the final selection of members through personal interviews scheduled at their convenience. Selected applicants must attend  pre-service orientation which may require overnight accommodations before they are officially considered to be a member of Keystone SMILES AmeriCorps.

 The applicants will be notified via their host sites and/or Keystone SMILES through an acceptance packet. The acceptance packet must be completed in full and all required documentation submitted before the member is considered active in the program.