Join Communities Across Oregon For a Year With The RARE AmeriCorps Program!

What is The RARE AmeriCorps Program? 

The mission of the Resource Assistance for Rural Environments (RARE) AmeriCorps Program is to increase the capacity of rural communities to improve their economic, social, and environmental conditions, through the assistance of trained graduate-level participants. RARE participants assist in the development and implementation of projects focused on increasing the vitality of the communities and organizations we serve. Our participants live in and serve communities for 11 months. The RARE AmeriCorps Program is now in its 23rd Year and has placed more than 450 individuals and served every Oregon county.

Does my Organization Qualify for The RARE AmeriCorps Program? 

RARE communities are organizations that have identified specific needs in rural areas. Eligible organizations include public agencies (including city, county, and regional governments); special districts (such as soil and water conservation districts, park and transportation districts); and non-profit organizations. RARE projects typically fall into the following categories: land use planning, downtown development, community and economic development, regional tourism, renewable energy, food systems planning, and natural resources planning.

How Can My Organization Participate?

To host a RARE member, each participating community or agency must provide a $23,500 match towards the placement, training, and support for the full-time RARE member. RARE AmeriCorps Program staff will administer the member’s monthly stipend, medical insurance, and post-service educational award. To apply, communities must submit a Community Application  to the program due by 5:00 PM on April 14th. RARE AmeriCorps placements are contingent on availability of program funding.

The Ford Family Foundation has limited funding available to support the placement of a RARE member. These funds are competitive. To determine if your organization is eligible for this funding opportunity, click here.

RARE AmeriCorps Program Application Process Timeline

April 14: Community Applications due
April 17:  TFFF Grant Application due
April 28: Member Applications due
May 8-31: Member Phone Interviews with RARE staff
June 30: Position Descriptions due
June 23: Members invited to participate
July 17-21: Members interview with potential communities
Aug 4: Final placement decisions will be made
September 6-8: Orientation
September 11: Placement in partner community begins