AmeriCorps Connections

πŸ“’Your voice matters more than ever. Take 2 minutes and tell your lawmakers that AmeriCorps is essential to your community. πŸ“’πŸ“’πŸ“’
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In this episode of the AmeriCorps Connections podcast, host Nicki Fiocco interviews John Knauer about his transformative experiences in AmeriCorps and Peace Corps. John shares insights from his service years, emphasizing the importance of seeing individuals behind the numbers and harnessing the power of connection and community impact.

He recounts his start with AmeriCorps through a program recommended by his brother, progressing to his roles in New Orleans and Madagascar, and how these experiences influenced his perspective on personal growth, adaptability, and impact.

The episode highlights the shifts in John's service mindset, the adaptation and resilience gained through his service experiences, and the joy of fostering community through intentional connections. John also discusses the exciting changes at Notre Dame Mission Volunteers, reflecting ongoing growth and transformation in the national service landscape. The conversation underscores the themes of empathy, intentionality, and the transformative power of open-mindedness and curiosity in service.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Impact of Service
00:47 Meet John Knauer
03:18 John's AmeriCorps Journey Begins
07:26 The Importance of Site Supervisors
08:35 Personal Growth and Second Year of Service
20:41 Transition to Peace Corps
30:05 Cultural Immersion in Madagascar
31:06 Language Barriers and Misunderstandings
32:38 Comparing Dialects: Puerto Rico and Beyond
35:14 Peace Corps Projects and Achievements
39:37 Community and Happiness in Madagascar
45:20 Reflections on Service and Personal Growth
56:44 The Future of Notre Dame Mission Volunteers
59:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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Alumni Connections
🀠Shout outs!
🌟🌟Podcast Production and Marketing support provided by Do Good, Be Good - they provide training for AmeriCorps programs and are staffed by AmeriCorps alumni.

🌟🌟Hosting and podcast consultation provided by Producer Dan Metivier of Time or Money Production. Thank you, Dan! (p.s., he's an NCCC AmeriCorps Alumni)

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What is AmeriCorps Connections?

1 Million AmeriCorps member STRONG! We are a loud voice for national and community service. We have all served in one way or another - let's engage, learn and connect with each other! Let's serve Life After AmeriCorps!

Watch the conversation on You Tube - https://www.youtube.com/@americorpsconnections
Follow AmeriCorps Connections on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/americorpsconnections/