Jeannie Smith has joined the Porter County Aging and Community Services’ team as coordinator of the Emergency and Energy Assistance programs. Smith is a part of the AmeriCorps program, which is coordinated by the United Way of Porter County through a grant from the office of Faith-based and Community Initiatives.
Smith has worked as an AmeriCorps member for two years and previously worked at area schools. She brings bookkeeping skills to her role and she is a Notary. She also is certified with Purdue Extension’s Benefit Bank program, which can assist individuals with food stamp eligibility and voter registration and assist parents and students in filing FAFSA forms. She also knows a little sign language.
Smith said being an AmeriCorps member has helped her create connections.
“I have been able to do a lot of networking and get to know quite a few different people. It has been very helpful to me,” she said. “I like meeting and talking to people. This has brought me out of my shell a little.”
“With Jeannie’s help, we will be able to better assist the community through these two key programs,” said PCACS Executive Director Bruce Lindner. “Additionally, we are honored to support and showcase the AmeriCorps program as so many organizations and schools benefit from this program.”
AmeriCorps offers opportunities for individuals to work with area organizations and schools to impact the community and develop skills through new experiences.
Members can work full or part time and may receive a modest living allowance while serving. Upon completion, they can earn a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award, which pays for college or graduate school or to pay back qualified student loans.
“The program allows non-profits and schools to provide service that otherwise would not happen due to fiscal challenges and staff commitments,” said Program Director Deb Townsend.
For more information on AmeriCorps, contact Townsend at 464-3583 at Porter County United Way.
PCACS’ mission is to extend a helping hand to seniors, those with disabilities and low-income residents by providing services to improve their quality of life, including transportation, nutrition programs, energy assistance and activity centers.
For more information, contact PCACS at 464-9736.