Energy Express is an 8-week AmeriCorps summer reading program promoting the school success of West Virginia children living in rural and low-income communities. In the summer of 2015, Energy Express had 71 sites in 34 countries across the state. Since its inception in 1994, children have increased or maintained their reading skills over the summer and have received 58% of their daily nutritional requirements.
 

AmeriCorps members serving as mentors and community coordinators must be available to continuously serve from June 16 through August 5, 2016 and be at least 18 years of age by June 16, 2016. Mentors must also be a college-bound high school senior, a current college student, or a recent college graduate with no full-time employment. Mentors make learning fun for small groups of school-age children by creating a safe, enriching environment focused on reading, writing, art and drama. Mentors also lead non-competitive recreation and two nutritional family style meals. Community coordinators connect parents and community members to the Energy Express site by recruiting, training and supervise community and teen volunteers who help with various site activities.
 

In return for their 300 hours of service, Energy Express AmeriCorps members receive a living allowance of $1,850 and an educational award of $1,210 valid for up to seven years to pay for college tuition or loans. Individuals serving as an AmeriCorps member who are 55 years of age or older are now able to transfer their Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards to their children, grandchildren, and foster children. The transfer award must be used within 10 years.
 

As an AmeriCorps member, they will also become a role model to children living in low-income areas and help strengthen the bonds that comprise a thriving community.
 

Applications are available online at www.hcparks.orgor by visiting Harrison County Parks and Recreation offices during normal business hours Monday thru Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm at 43 Recreation Drive, (rt. 19 south) Clarksburg. Applications are being accepted until all positions are filled.
 

For more information about becoming an AmeriCorps member with Energy Express, visit the website at www.energyexpress.wvu.edu.