AmeriCorps Book Builder (2023-24)
Location: Sacramento, California
Program: 916 Ink
START DATE: SEPTEMBER 5TH, 2023 - AUGUST 31ST, 2024
HALF-TIME: 20 - 25 HOURS/WEEK
916 Ink is Sacramento’s arts-based creative writing and literacy nonprofit that provides workshops and tutoring to transform Sacramento youth into strong readers, confident communicators, and published authors.
Our programs increase literacy skills, improve vocabulary, teach empathy, positively impact social and emotional learning, and expand communication skills.
We envision a Sacramento region where every child and teen is given access to a culturally relevant creative writing program that leads them to believe in themselves and to understand the power of the written word.
At 916 Ink, our core values inform and guide our work with every constituency, at every level - from our methods in the classroom to our messaging on social media to how we work with each other in the office. The Values are as follows: Empathy - We cultivate an open and compassionate environment. Empowerment - We encourage each individual to step into their own power. Equity - We commit to justice and advancing the unique experience and expression of all. Octopus - We celebrate creativity, bravery, and risk-taking.
916 Ink recognizes that communities of color have been left behind by decades of systemic racism and oppression. Of particular concern to our organization are the academic achievement and literacy gaps. Fewer than half of Sacramento County third graders read at grade level, and these rates are significantly lower for students of color. To advance our mission of empowering youth through creative writing, we know we must specifically address injustice and racial inequity. We affirm our commitment to lifting up the voices of youth of color and supporting our schools and communities in shifting the landscape of inequity.
Join 916 Ink to transform youth into published authors, create lifelong readers, articulate communicators, and self-confident youth writers who know the power of their own story..
Want to Learn More?
Watch this video (https://youtu.be/2P8VfDBl_Ng) to get a glimpse into the 916 Ink creative writing method.
AmeriCorps engages more than 80,000 Americans in intensive service each year at nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the country. 916 Ink is proud to partner with AmeriCorps. Click here to learn more about serving a year with AmeriCorps.
Position Summary
The AmeriCorps Book Builder will assist with production of anthologies from Find Your Voice Creative Writing Workshops, maintenance of student records, and with events celebrating the release of these anthologies. The AmeriCorps Book Builder will occasionally support in-class creative writing workshop activities for students in grades 3-12.
Production & Publication
Monitor program manuscripts throughout the semester for content, length, and errors
Communicate with workshop facilitators or volunteers regarding manuscript progress
Edit and format completed manuscripts following 916 Ink Style Guide to prepare for design
Communicate with program participants and families about book release events
Prepare materials for book release events and help staff as needed
Track and manage anthology inventory
In-Class Assistance (As Needed)
Guest edits one-on-one with students in grades 3-12 using positive, constructive feedback
Transcribe student writing into digital manuscripts throughout semester
Model the Find Your Voice method in workshops by engaging in creative writing prompts, providing positive feedback, and aiding facilitators as necessary
Program Support
Enter student records in the 916 Ink database and generate program data reports
Track and manage student publishing consent
Manage and distribute t-shirt inventory
Participate in monthly staff meetings
Attend required training and professional development sessions
Qualifications
Minimum of high school diploma or GED Certificate
Must be at least 18 years of age
Hold US Citizenship or Permanent Resident Status
Have not completed more than three (3) prior AmeriCorps or VISTA service terms
Understand that this position is an AmeriCorps service commitment and are dedicated to national and community service
Dedicated to successfully completing a full term of service
Must be able to demonstrate a commitment to 916 Ink’s mission, vision and core values
Are flexible given the ever-changing environment of serving in public schools, and are adaptable in both work style and work environment
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Pay strong attention to detail and manage competing priorities
Have special experience in copy-editing and/or production.
Demonstrated ability to use critical thinking skills in order to solve problems
Bonus Points if You:
Are an AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service alum
Are a 916 Ink alum or have volunteered with 916 Ink
Have experience volunteering with other community-based or education programs
Have experience in other related administrative/data entry experience.
What We Offer:
AmeriCorps members earn an annual living allowance totaling $12,000 (Returning 916 Ink Members: $12,750)
Eligible AmeriCorps members serving a 900-hour term in California can earn a total of $3,697.50 Segal Education Award after successfully completing their service term
You may be eligible for student loan forbearance on federal student loans
Ongoing professional development opportunities
Other Things You Need to Know:
Service Terms: AmeriCorps members serve half-time (approximately 20-25 hours/week) within a 12-month period and must commit to a service term of 900+ hours.
Commuting: AmeriCorps members regularly travel to school sites throughout the week and need access to reliable transportation on a daily basis. AmeriCorps members also make occasional trips to the 916 Ink office and service day events. AmeriCorps members must live within commuting distance of the region in which they serve.
AmeriCorps member duties do not include any prohibited or unallowable activities per 45 CFR § 2520.65’
AmeriCorps member training hours must not exceed 20% of total service hours.
How to Apply
Please send a resume and a cover letter describing your interest and qualifications to Jade Rodgers, 916 STEAM Academy AmeriCorps Manager, at jade@916ink.org. This position is open until filled.