National and Community Service programs, such as True North AmeriCorps, facilitated by the Duluth Area Family YMCA, address issues that impact Northeastern Minnesota’s citizens. While the Northland is rich in green spaces, lakes, good people, and opportunity, too many of our neighbors face obstacles that disrupt their quality of life. Children are especially vulnerable to the long-term impact of difficult life experiences, and that’s where True North AmeriCorps members can help.
True North AmeriCorps’s new partner sites; Barnum Elementary, Deer River’s King Elementary, Ely’s Washington Elementary, and Floodwood elementary offer unique opportunities within proud communities. However, some families in Duluth and surrounding areas face barriers in receiving the services they need- a trend far too common. This is why True North has expanded to rural locations across Northeastern MN. We’re here to help strong communities thrive by providing students with the emotional support they deserve within their own town.
True North AmeriCorps members come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, and all have a passion to serve. Our members are thoughtful, tenacious, kind, energetic, and willing to learn with the children they get to know. Members bring in social emotional learning activities to compliment the existing programs and protocols our partner sites have. The member, students, and faculty will work together towards the success of the youth using holistic support methods.
National Service is beneficial for those who serve as well. True North AmeriCorps members receive modest living stipends, tuition assistance, student loan forbearance, professional development, health insurance, YMCA memberships, and the ability to make lasting connections with their community. Those interested in education, social work, justice, and youth development will find their experiences and training to be invaluable in their future career pursuits.
As a licensed teacher I can attest to the fact that children struggle to learn new concepts when they are emotionally irregulated. It’s amazing how different the atmosphere can become if there is an additional caring adult ready to offer support. Our members know there is no such thing as a bad kid, and provide one-on-one or small group skill building activities to the youth they serve on a regular basis. The methods used are affirming, fun, and impactful; kids do better when they feel better.
True North AmeriCorps is a program of the Duluth Area Family YMCA and firmly upholds the For All message. We pride ourselves in being an equal-opportunity service provider. Qualified individuals with diverse abilities are encouraged to apply. We celebrate diversity and inclusion and are committed to treating people respectfully. The Corporation for National and Community Service prohibits discrimination based on: race, color, age, national origin, assigned sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, ethnicity, marital or parental status, religion, political affiliation, or disability.
Minimum Qualifications: 18 years of age or older, a citizen/lawful resident alien of the USA, possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent, basic computer skills, and able to pass a criminal background check. Visit www.truenorthamericorps.org for more information.
Written by Dani Barto, True North AmeriCorps Program Coordinator. Published by the Duluth News Tribune 6/27/2020 https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/opinion/columns/6551820-Local-View-Kids-do-better-when-they-feel-better