Partnering with LINKS
LINKS is an AmeriCorps program that seeks to connect local communities and individuals with one another to address critical community needs through results-driven service.
LINKS partners with more than 50 schools, community-based organizations and local government agencies to build their capacity to meet the needs of the communities in the greater Pacific Northwest. LINKS projects directly address community needs in the areas of education, public safety, the environment and other human needs.
LINKS members can serve either 300, 450, 675, 900 or 1700 hour terms. The length of term is determined by project partner needs and/or the member’s availability. Members typically serve full-time for shorter periods or part-time for up to a year.
Sponsor agencies develop the project, recruit the member(s) and provide daily guidance and supervision. In turn, LINKS provides an AmeriCorps Education Award for each member that completes his or her term of service. Although not required for the 300, 450, and 675 hour positions, some sponsors choose to provide their member(s) with a stipend or other benefits (find out more in the proposal Information Packet or by contacting our staff). Full stipends are required for the 900 and 1700 hour terms of service.
| Education Award Chart | |||||
| Hours of Service | 300 | 450 | 675 | 900 | 1700 |
| Education Award | $1,000 | $1,250 | $1,800 | $2,362 | $4,725 |
Project sponsors pay a program administrative fee of $200 to $675 per member, based on the term of service. Additional costs may include a cash match (required for 900 and 1700 hour positions) or an optional living allowance for shorter term positions (see Living allowance chart on page 2). Project sponsors are invoiced one month after the member orientation.
By becoming a LINKS sponsor, your agency will gain one or more motivated individuals who will bring a fresh perspective, energy and a commitment to making a difference in your community. Beyond this, sponsor agencies also gain an opportunity to increase their capacity to meet the needs of the communities or individuals they serve.
Project proposals are accepted each summer for positions starting September 1 thru July 31. Start dates are flexible, depending on your time line.
2009-2010 RFP Process
The RFP process for the 2009-2010 program year (positions starting Sept. 1, 2009 thru July 31, 2010) is over. The proposal for the 2010-2011 program year (positions starting Sept. 1, 2010 through July 31, 2011) is now available on the LINKS home page.