Lillianne Goeders,
CEA – Urban Youth Development
Texas AgriLife Extension
The Travis County CAPITAL AmeriCorps Project
began in 2003 in response to the growing need for high-quality enrichment
during out-of-school time programs. Long waiting lists for 4-H
CAPITAL programs and increasing numbers of youth and families with social
and economic stressors illustrated the need for a strategy to fill the
many unmet needs.
Service to America is a time-honored tradition
that brings needed resources to communities. Through this national
service program AmeriCorps members strengthen communities and local
organizations.
The 10 full-time and 12 part-time Travis County
CAPITAL AmeriCorps Project members are directly responsible for the
phenomenal growth of 4-H afterschool. Collaboration with Austin
Independent School District’s Prime Time and 21st Century
grant-funding allowed for expansion of 4-H outreach.
No one is surprised by the AmeriCorps members’
enthusiasm and “Getting Things Done” attitude. The commitment
to community strengthening is apparent in the quality of programs, dedication
to achievement, and members’ willingness to “go the extra mile in
meeting the needs of the students.”
Travis County CAPITAL AmeriCorps members receive
a living stipend and educational award upon completion of one year of
National Service. AmeriCorps members are actively involved and
leading several science-based and life-skills based programs in an after
afterschool setting that range from Animal Science to Rocket Science.