American Connection Corps Member Application-Cohort 2026

About the American Connection Corps:
Where we live increasingly determines which people, places, and possibilities we can access. The American Connection Corps (ACC) is dedicated to addressing this challenge by recruiting and placing members in communities to expand economic opportunities, bridge social networks, and introduce new career pathways.

Position Overview:
The American Connection Corps is recruiting 150+ members across 30 different states to serve in locally rooted organizations tackling critical community challenges. As an ACC Member, you will gain hands-on experience, receive on-the-job training, and explore career pathways while making a tangible impact in your community.

We welcome candidates from a variety of stages of life—whether you are taking a gap year after high school, attending a technical college, graduating with your bachelor's degree, pivoting careers, or even retiring and looking for your next opportunity, there’s a place for you at the American Connection Corps.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work with a local host organization to support initiatives focused on digital access, broadband expansion, workforce development, community development, and more!
• Engage with local leaders, businesses, and community members to identify opportunities for connection and collaboration.
• Conduct research, outreach, and training to support community-driven projects.
• Assist in project management, program development, and partnership building.
• Participate in national ACC training and networking opportunities to enhance leadership and professional skills.

Example Placements:

• Agriculture & Natural Resource Management: Build capacity and activate community engagement around conservation practices to protect soil, water, and local ecosystems.
• Broadband & Digital Inclusion: Support city governments and regional initiatives to improve broadband internet access, conduct public outreach, and advance digital access.
• Financial Access & Economic Mobility: Promote digital financial literacy, connect residents to mainstream banking services, and support economic empowerment programs.
• Digital Navigation & Workforce Development: Provide digital skills training and outreach to improve internet adoption and workforce opportunities in rural communities.
• Community Development & Education Pathways: Conduct community asset mapping, support cradle-to-career initiatives, and develop strategic partnerships to drive economic and educational opportunities

Requirements

• Passion for community service and bridging digital, economic, and social divides.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Interest in gaining experience in community development, digital access, broadband expansion, or economic opportunity initiatives.

Eligibility:

• Be a U.S. Citizen, National, or Lawful Permanent Resident.
• Hold a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Be 17 years of age or older by the start of service.
• Have not already served four (4) or more AmeriCorps State/National terms. 

Benefits

Every full-time ACC Member receives: 

• A $33,000 stipend. 
• A $7,395 Education Award through AmeriCorps, which can be applied to any education-related expenses after the program concludes (including repayment of qualifying student loans).
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage (if applicable).
• Access to childcare benefits.
• Student loan forbearance during your year of service.
• Fully-funded travel and trainings throughout the year.

Non-Discrimination

This institution operates in accordance with Federal and AmeriCorps civil rights and non-discrimination requirements. This program is available to all, without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity or expression, political affiliation, marital or parental status, genetic information and military service. 

All program documents, including compliance history information, may be made available in languages other than English. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication to obtain program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language), should contact us at ACCinfo@leadforamerica.org

Note: The ACC program may also offer part-time service options when appropriate. Contact us if you're interested.