Expand Your Knowledge and Network
Volunteer Maryland provides an intensive and thorough training in the best practices of volunteer management. The training is based on VMs Cycle of Volunteer Program Development. The initial training is followed up with on-going staff support and additional monthly training events.

During the training, each VMC develops a network of peers across Maryland and works closely with these colleagues throughout the service year.

In addition to your training and Service Site work, you will have an opportunity to develop or enhance your leadership skills during the service year. Volunteer Maryland Coordinators may take the lead on planning and coordinating direct service projects, serve on a state-wide council of fellow AmeriCorps members, or design and deliver training sessions for VM AmeriCorps members and Service Sites. At the beginning of the year, you will set your own personal and professional development goals.

Join a Dynamic Team of Service Leaders
Volunteer Maryland Coordinators are a diverse and talnted group of service leaders. In addition, VM works with extraordinary service and volunteerism colleagues across country. As a VMC, you will have an opportunity to learn from and work alongside your peers, VM staff and alumni, and state and national nonprofit leaders.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What do Volunteer Maryland Coordinators (VMCs) do?
• How are VMCs recruited?
• What are the benefits?
• What are the qualifications and experience required to serve as a VMC?
• What is the selection process for VMCs?
• How are VMCs trained and supported?
• What is a typical day like for a VM Coordinator?
• Can I be a VMC for more than one year?
• How do I find out if a VM Coordinator position is right for me?
• How do I apply?
• What happens after I apply?

Volunteer Maryland Coordinators (VMCs) work at local nonprofit agencies to recruit and manage volunteers during a one-year term of national service. Volunteer Maryland Coordinators conduct needs assessments, design program materials, deliver orientation and training for staff and volunteers, and more. Each VMC has a site-specific position description and workplan.

In addition, VMCs attend approximately 20 days of Volunteer Maryland training and perform direct service for 10 percent of their time.

How are VMCs recruited?

Volunteer Maryland Coordinators are recruited by VM from a variety of national, state, and local sources. Volunteer Maryland conducts year-round recruitment. In addition, each Service Site will use its existing local network to recruit a VMC.

What are the benefits?

As AmeriCorps members, full-time VMCs receive a living allowance of $13,000, a post-service educational benefit of $4,725, health insurance if they are not already covered, and student loan deferment during the service year. Coordinators may also qualify for a childcare allowance. Part-time positions are also available.

Other benefits include valuable networking opportunities, being part of a dedicated team of AmeriCorps members, and making a real difference in the community.

What are the qualifications and experience required to serve as a VMC?

Volunteer Maryland Coordinators must possess and demonstrate excellence in the following areas: verbal and written communication, computer skills, problem solving and conflict resolution, leadership, public speaking, and commitment to national and community service.

In addition, proof of U.S. citizenship, age (at least 17 years old), and high school graduation are required in order to enroll in AmeriCorps.

What is the selection process for VMCs?

Applicants are screened by local Service Sites and Volunteer Maryland to verify site placements and in the AmeriCorps enrollment. The process involves at least the following steps: one phone screen, two interviews, two reference checks, and one criminal background check. Depending on the types of clients and/or volunteers, the Service Site may require additional screening steps for VMC applicants.

How are VMCs trained and supported?

Volunteer Maryland provides a two-week pre-service training as well as monthly training days during the year (approximately 20 days total), which covers program development, marketing, evaluation, volunteer management, and leadership development.

Each Service Site will also provide a thorough on-site orientation to the agency and the volunteer program needs. In addition, a Site Supervisor is available for regular meetings, guidance, and correction as necessay.

What is a typical day like for a VM Coordinator?

Each VMC position is unique, so there is no typical day. In general, though, VMCs will spend a portion of their time in an office setting (business office, school-based, etc.) since the position requires a great deal of writing for or communicating with volunteers and paid staff. On any given day, VMCs may also provide direct service (10 percent of service hours). To fulfill their direct service requirement, VMCs have tutored youth, planted trees, transported meals to senior citizens, built community playgrounds, and more.

Can I be a VMC for more than one year?

Yes! You may apply for a second-year VMC position with your current Service Site or with another site. Second year applications are due in May each year. Coordinator positions are subject to the availability of an appropriate Service Site placement.

How do I find out if a VM Coordinator position is right for me?

The best way is to call VM and speak with one of our staff or AmeriCorps members directly. You can reach us at 410-767-6203.

How do I apply?

Complete the VMC application and send it to VM; you may fax, mail, or email your application. You may also apply to a potential Service Site.

What happens after I apply?

If you apply to VM, you will receive a confirmation receipt (phone, fax, or email) within 24 hours. If your application meets our program requirements, you will be phone screened by a VM staff member. From there, you will be invited to the office for an interview with VM staff; the interview lasts about 90 minutes. You will also be referred out to a Service Site for a second interview (subject to availability of a suitable site). Following the interviews, applicants will have references checked, a criminal background investigation completed, and additional site-specific screening steps conducted if necessary.