Meaning of Service Common Questions

Who can apply to host Meaning of Service?
Is there any cost to host Meaning of Service?
Must I have a Scholar-Facilitator in place to apply to host Meaning of Service?
Who qualifies as a Scholar-Facilitator?
How should I go about finding a Scholar-Facilitator?
What does the Scholar-Facilitator have to do?
How much, and how, does the Scholar-Facilitator get paid?
What are the responsibilities of the host program?
When should we schedule the Meaning of Service sessions? How long does each Meaning of Service session last? Am I responsible for any follow up after the series?

Who can apply to host Meaning of Service?

All active AmeriCorps programs in New York State are eligible to apply.

Is there any cost to host Meaning of Service?

No. The Council covers all direct costs for Meaning of Service. The host is responsible for providing staff support and for working directly with the Scholar-Facilitator. See What are the responsibilities of the host program? below.

Do I have to have a Scholar-Facilitator in place to apply to host Meaning of Service?

Yes. In order to apply you must have identified a humanities scholar who is committed to facilitating all eight discussion sessions, and you must include that person's current resume with your application. Please make sure your proposed Scholar-Facilitator is familiar with the Meaning of Service requirements before he or she agrees to facilitate your series.

Who qualifies as a Scholar-Facilitator?

A humanities scholar is an individual with particular training or experience that qualifies him or her as a professional in one or more of the academic disciplines of the humanities. The typical qualifications are an advanced degree (M.A. or Ph.D.) in a humanities field of study and a regular appointment at a recognized institution of higher learning. However, individuals without an advanced degree or who are not affiliated with a college or university may qualify as humanities scholars because of their methods of research, inquiry, and teaching. Students doing graduate work in a humanities discipline are also qualified. The Council also recognizes that scholarship and knowledge gathering are defined differently in different cultures, and respects such diversity of training and preparation as consistent with our understanding of the humanities as fields and as methods of inquiry. Scholar-facilitators for Meaning of Service do not have to be experts in literature. They simply have to have an interest in taking on the role of facilitator for a humanities-based discussion group. Previous experience in facilitation is helpful but not required.

How should I go about finding a Scholar-Facilitator?

Often the easiest way to find a scholar is by contacting local colleges or universities. Don't forget to inquire about graduate students if you are near a school with a graduate program. Also ask about retired faculty who might still be in the area. Many organizations have scholars as board members, advisors, or volunteers who may be interested in facilitating a Meaning of Service program, or can recommend others.

What does the Scholar-Facilitator have to do?

The Scholar-Facilitator works with AmeriCorps program staff to select appropriate readings, develops discussion questions that relate to the reading, and facilitates each of the eight discussion sessions. The Council will provide training for each Scholar-Facilitator and for one AmeriCorps senior staff member from each participating program.

How much, and how, does the Scholar-Facilitator get paid?
The Scholar-Facilitator is paid $125 per session for a total of $1000 for all eight sessions. The Council contracts directly with the Scholar-Facilitator once an application has been accepted. Each Scholar-Facilitator receives $500 on November 1 and $500 after they have submitted their final evaluation.

What are the responsibilities of the host program?

Your program is responsible for:

• Selecting a Scholar-Facilitator for your Meaning of Serivce series.

• Arranging a location to conduct Meaning of Service sessions.

• Conducting at least 8 Meaning of Service sessions over an 11-month period beginning in September and ending in July.
• Collaborating with your Scholar-Facilitator to select readings and arrange session dates.
• Completing and returning Meaning of Service evaluation materials to the Council at the end of your series.

When should we schedule the Meaning of Service sessions?

The Meaning of Service sessions should be scheduled at a time that is convenient for AmeriCorps staff and members and for your Scholar-Facilitator and that encourages member participation. Some programs have held sessions at monthly Member Development Days at the program offices.

How long does each Meaning of Service session last?

Each of the eight Meaning of Service sessions should last roughly 90 minutes.

Am I responsible for any follow up after the series?

Yes. Your organization is required to complete and return Host Program and Participant evaluation forms at the conclusion of your discussion series. These will be emailed to you prior to your final session.