MFS AmeriCorps
What We Do
Every year, MFS AmeriCorps Members bring fresh ideas, projects, and perspectives while providing hands-on, direct support to our programs, participants, and communities we serve.
Community Schools
Serving elementary, middle and high school students & families in East Portland and Gresham; providing social-emotional learning (SEL) and skill building in afterschool settings.
Economic Empowerment
Providing financial education, coaching, and resources to youth & families within the school setting.
CASH Oregon
Providing community outreach and awareness on free tax prep services & resources
Hunger Relief
Supporting school-based food pantries and nutritional cooking classes for students & families in East Portland.
Ready, Set, Go! (Early Childhood Development)
Serving 0-5 year-old children and their caregivers in hands-on learning environments based in the school setting
Climate Resilience
Across all programs, providing opportunities for community members to engage in climate justice efforts, and support access to resources and information that will help lower carbon emissions in our communities.
Alumni Feedback & Program Highlights
“Throughout the year I have learned so much about myself and where I want my life to go. I have become more confident in myself and my leading skills. I have felt stronger and accepted by those around me. Joining as an AmeriCorps member has set me up for many other career opportunities. I could not have made it to this point in my life without the AmeriCorps and Hunger Relief programs. I am thankful every day for all the help I have received and the wonderful people I have met.”
MFS Hunger Relief Member, 2022
“My AmeriCorps service helped me realize that youth work was my calling. It would’ve taken me much longer to get on this career path without my AmeriCorps experience.”
MFS Community Schools Member, 2013
“My AmeriCorps position with MFS allowed me to explore my passion for food justice and food security. The month after my service year ended, I was hired to start and run a school-based food pantry at one of our nearby SUN sites. I believe that the professional experiences and networking I gained during my AmeriCorps year were critical in my success in my current position.”
MFS Community Schools Member, 2013 (and current Hunger Relief Program Manager!)
“Serving with MFS AmeriCorps was valuable in helping me define my own professional goals, and ultimately in pursuing a career in pediatrics. Many Interviewers and employers have noted this experience as one of the most impressive and important on my CV. Additionally, I am personally very proud of the work I did with MFS AmeriCorps, and I would recommend it to others who are interested in learning about advocacy, community, and relationship building.”
MFS AmeriCorps Member, 2013 & 2014
“My service with AmeriCorps was a stepping stone on my way to a career in public service in the field of International Environmental Policy. The experience of project management and the micro/local level and the trainings I received gave me the tools needed to pursue a career on an international scale.”
MFS Community Schools Member, 2012