The ACCESS program places Volunteers with local nonprofits to support immigrants and refugees in accessing critical resources and services that promote stability, self-sufficiency, and community integration through direct service, addressing immediate and long-term needs. This includes securing and retaining employment, navigating complex systems (healthcare, social services, and schools), breaking cultural and language barriers, and addressing housing needs and food insecurity, among other supports. Volunteers provide consistent, relationship-based support grounded in patience, compassion, and cultural humility. They walk alongside families through challenges and milestones, support students in schools, engage parents, and lead programs promoting learning and belonging. Every act of service is rooted in dignity and empathy, helping individuals feel seen, valued, empowered, and connected as they work toward stability and self-sufficiency. By addressing immediate needs while supporting long-term goals, Volunteers help create lasting change and strengthen community resilience. Volunteers receive professional development training, including Introduction to Immigrants and Refugees, Cultural Sensitivity, Cross-Cultural Communication, Immigration Law and Citizenship, and Professional Interpretation. Host sites also provide role- and site-specific training. Throughout their term, Volunteers receive ongoing support from program staff and site supervisors. As a result, Volunteers gain meaningful personal and professional growth, strengthened transferable skills, and practical experience working with culturally diverse populations. These experiences enhance communication, adaptability, cultural humility, and problem-solving skills, preparing them for future careers and education. ACCESS Volunteers come from diverse backgrounds, representing varied ages, nationalities, identities, socioeconomic experiences, and education, united by a desire to help.
Member Duties : AmeriCorps Volunteers provide direct, hands-on support to immigrants and refugees as they navigate life in the U.S., assisting with their integration in a variety of ways. This includes helping individuals obtain identification documents (e.g., Social Security cards and driver’s licenses); access basic needs such as food, clothing, and healthcare; interpret at health and social service appointments; and provide employment support, including resume development, mock interviews, workplace readiness, and job retention assistance. Volunteers also help individuals apply for public benefits (e.g., Medicaid, food stamps, and housing assistance) or connect them with partner organizations for specialized needs. In addition, they support students with schoolwork and recruit and manage volunteers to expand service capacity. These efforts are strengthened through case management and wraparound support to address emerging needs and promote continued progress.
Program Benefits : mileage reimbursement for training , Education award upon successful completion of service , Living Allowance , Training .
Terms :
Uniforms provided and required , Car recommended , Permits working at another job during off hours , Permits attendance at school during off hours .
Service Areas :
Technology , Hunger , Education , Community Outreach , Health , Children/Youth , Housing , Community and Economic Development .
Skills :
Social Services , Education , Public Health , First Aid , Teaching/Tutoring , Non-Profit Management , Writing/Editing , Conflict Resolution , Leadership , Recruitment , Communications , Computers/Technology , Team Work , Public Speaking , Youth Development .
AmeriCorps State / National
AmeriCorps ACCESS Project
Program Locations
NORTH CAROLINA
From 04/22/2026 To 08/31/2026
Website https://cnnc.uncg.edu/americorps-access-project/
https://cnnc.uncg.edu/americorps-access-project/
