Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) is seeking new AmeriCorps LEAP Initiative members to serve in local pre-k and kindergartens, including Head Start and local early childhood programs.  They will serve one year and become part of a team trained to be advocates, coaches and champions for social/emotional school readiness.

SMIF has partnered with AmeriCorps for the past 15 years.  This partnership has engaged more than 400 members who have each contributed to making a difference in people’s lives.  Under SMIF’s Early Childhood Initiative, LEAP (Learning Early Achieves Potential) members will help develop social and emotional skills in children to prepare them for school. Members receive a living allowance, health care and an education award to pay for school loans or college tuition.

“For 23 years, our partnership with local leaders and community organizations has helped identify assets and advance community goals,” said Tim Penny, president and CEO. “This public-private partnership with AmeriCorps is a successful example for local communities and early childhood initiatives.  Our AmeriCorps LEAP members are directly and positively impacting early childhood efforts throughout southern Minnesota,” he added.

To learn more about serving as an AmeriCorps member, visit www.smifoundation .org and click on “Events and RFPs,” then “AmeriCorps Leap Member-Instructions and Application.” You may also contact Janet Lundstrom at SMIF, (507) 455-3215, janetl@smif oundation.org.

Recruitment is ongoing until positions are filled.

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