To better understand the experiences and impacts of AmeriCorps service, the Office of Research and Evaluation (ORE) conducted an overview of AmeriCorps members’ aptitude for cultural competency using member exit surveys. The report analyzed member exit surveys conducted between October 2015 to September 2020, and included responses from members in three AmeriCorps programs (AmeriCorps State and National, AmeriCorps VISTA, and AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps) and focus areas (Education, Healthy Futures, Disaster Response, Veterans & Military Families, Environmental Stewardship, and Economic Opportunity). The findings suggest that AmeriCorps members position themselves as change agents who are interested in working across backgrounds and cultures to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic engagement.
Findings:
The report’s key findings were the following:
- The report is based on AmeriCorps Member Exit Surveys; over 200,000 surveys have been completed since 2015.
- At least 88% of AmeriCorps members across program types say they enjoy exploring differences between their co-workers and friends from different cultures and backgrounds.
- Differences across program type and other demographics tended to be small, suggesting a strong general interest in learning from, working with, and respecting people of different cultures and backgrounds is a key part of the AmeriCorps service experience.
Spotlight on Bridging Differences Fact Sheet
AmeriCorps Bridging and Belonging Fact Sheet