Program offers living stipend, experience, education awards

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is accepting applications for the 2006 AmeriCorps program.

KDWP has applied for the federal grants necessary to fund the program, and department officials expect to be informed about 2006 grant funding by late summer. The department encourages persons interested in joining the 2006-2007 AmeriCorps team to visit any state park office for more information and an application.

Most AmeriCorps team members are based in state park offices, where they assist with park maintenance and development projects. Team members also serve as disaster recovery teams across the state. In the past, for example, they have provided assistance in cleanup and recovery efforts following tornado or ice storm damage.

A total of 52 team members served on the 2005 Kansas AmeriCorps team. Team members undergo training in CPR, First Aid, disaster recovery, and a variety of other skills.

Full-time AmeriCorps members serve 1,700 hours and receive a living stipend during their service, as well as an educational award of $4,725 upon completion of their service. Part-time members serve 900 hours and receive a living stipend, as well as an educational award of $2362.

Interested persons can obtain more information at the nearest state park, or by contacting Angie Harvey at the department’s Pratt office (620/672-5911, extension 145).

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