SCP AmeriCorps Program

The South Cumberland Plateau AmeriCorps Project is a rural community initiative aimed at diminishing negative social determinants of health through direct service partnerships. Based out of the University of the South in Middle Tennessee, the program operates in Franklin, Grundy, Marion, Coffee and Sequatchie counties. SCP AmeriCorps pairs civic minded students and community members with local organizations to tackle various areas of need with a focus on hunger relief, financial literacy, education and tutoring, substance abuse, health, housing access and green space development. 

AmeriCorps is a federal agency connecting individuals and organizations through service and volunteering to tackle the nation’s most pressing challenges. AmeriCorps recruits are dedicated paid volunteers who serve from the heart with boots on the ground to support nonprofit, faith-based, government, and community organizations across the country. Members serve part-time to full-time and receive training and support to develop professional skills in areas such as community outreach, volunteer management and program coordination that helps to build organizations’ capacity to address their communities' needs. 

The SCP AmeriCorps State/National program plays a crucial role in addressing social determinants of health in communities on and around the South Cumberland Plateau. We address the needs and wellbeing of individuals and support initiatives and programing of community partners across our service area. For instance, members serving in health-related programs focus on improving access to healthy food options, promoting physical activity, increasing access to affordable housing, or providing education on the importance of preventive health measures. By engaging individuals in service and building the capacity of organizations to better serve their communities, the SCP AmeriCorps State program is making a significant impact in improving individual and community outcomes and reducing health disparities.