John Carroll University

John Carroll University (JCU) hosts the AmeriCorps Corps for Rural and Urban Success statewide program. John Carroll University is a private Jesuit institute in University Heights Ohio with a service mission committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders who will serve the world. Sites include: John Carroll University, Marietta College, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine,  Dayton Children’s Hospital, Crossroads Health Center, Signature Health, Monarch Lifeworks, University Hospitals, and Boys Hope Girls Hope

AmeriCorps members serving out of John Carroll University immerse themselves in a dedicated year of service establishing student populations in local schools to address problems/health disparities in their communities and building projects to address those concerns.  Projects can range from social/emotional support, healthy eating, and a number of other pertinent topics. Students, with the guidance of members and volunteers connect their projects to local community resources through research, grant writing, honing their 21st century skills, honing their public speaking, professional development and much more. Students in the program present their work at a large statewide conference, where local professionals judge projects on sustainability, research and impact. Overall, the program not only improves the health and wellness of students, but community members statewide.All members are certified as Community Health Workers through the Ohio Board of Nursing and some get to serve in that capacity, connecting community members to their health care needs. The AmeriCorps volunteers will establish and deliver CRUSH service learning based curriculum to students and community members whose Ohio school districts lack the resources to provide academic and career skill support necessary for students to obtain a sustainable career in the health care industry, a growing Ohio career opportunity. Local travel is necessary.