Mentor Youth by Joining PASS AmeriCorps Program

PASS AmeriCorps, a mentoring program that serves youth in school districts in San Diego County, is looking for members to join its 2024-25 cohort with service Sept. 1 through June 30, 2025. 

The PASS AmeriCorps program collaborates with schools to focus on improving academics, behavior, and attendance through character development, academic support, and opportunities for positive school and community engagement.

The program started more than 20 years ago as an effort to help students impacted by gangs, but has since expanded to also include other groups of students identified as at-promise.

“Being a part of PASS AmeriCorps has greatly impacted me both personally and professionally,” said one 2023-24 member. “When I started the program, I was at a point in my life where I was deciding to change my career path. I was at a standstill and this program helped me see that I do want to go back to school and develop a career as an educator.”

In addition to the personal and professional fulfillment of serving in the program, members have the opportunity make an impact on the students they work with. 

“PASS AmeriCorps has helped me a lot because it gives me motivation to do work,” said one current student. “This program makes me excited to come to school. I have learned how to ask for help when I need it and I have developed more confidence in the skills that I am attaining from this program. I am grateful and thankful for my PASS mentor and the PASS AmeriCorps program."

Program benefits and opportunities include:
•    $3,000 monthly living allowance
•    $7,395 Segal Educational Award and a $2,605 California for All Educational Award (for a total of $10,000)
•    Medical, dental, and vision coverage
•    Professional development training
•    Make a difference in the lives of children

“Serving with PASS AmeriCorps gives members an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of students,” said Tessa Diederich, project specialist at the San Diego County Office of Education, which oversees the program. “During their term of service, members also receive professional development and real-world experience, resume building, and networking in the fields of education, counseling, and social work."

For more information on the program, please visit the PASS Americorp website or read the PASS AmeriCorps Program Resources eZine to see member and school staff testimonies, see program data, and watch impact videos.

If you would like to apply, log into your myAmeriCorps user account and submit your application to our program. If you have trouble logging in or submitting your application, please call the National Service Hotline at 1-800-942-2677.