HeartCorps Service Member

Job Posting Organization:
The HeartCorps initiative is a collaboration between Public Health AmeriCorps and the American Heart Association (AHA), aimed at promoting health equity in rural communities across the United States. The AHA, established over a century ago, is a leading organization in cardiovascular and brain health, with a mission to drive breakthroughs and implement proven solutions in science, policy, and care for healthier people and communities. The organization operates nationwide, focusing on improving health outcomes and providing resources to support community health initiatives. The HeartCorps program is designed to engage service members in meaningful public health work, fostering professional development and community engagement.

Job Overview:
The HeartCorps Service Member position is a full-time role that offers individuals the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in public health while contributing to the health and well-being of rural communities. Service members will begin their term on May 19, 2025, and will typically work Monday through Friday, totaling 41.25 hours per week, with some flexibility for evening or weekend hours as needed. The primary focus of this role is to deliver health education, support community members in navigating health resources, and engage in various public health initiatives aimed at addressing cardiovascular health and chronic diseases. This position is ideal for individuals passionate about public health and community service, providing a platform to make a tangible impact in the lives of others.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the HeartCorps Service Member include:

• Delivering health education and support to patients and community members on heart health topics, including cardiovascular disease, smoking cessation, nutrition, and chronic diseases like diabetes.
• Assisting with public health surveys, which may involve recruiting participants, administering surveys in-person or via phone, tracking data, and generating reports.
• Planning and conducting local health skill-building workshops, health fairs, town halls, or community conversations to raise awareness and help community members manage their health.
• Supporting patients and community members in initiating and conducting Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring.
• Hosting Hands-Only CPR demonstrations for community members.
• Engaging with local organizations to identify and develop resources that assist families in accessing chronic disease interventions and overall health and well-being services.
• Actively participating in AmeriCorps pre-service orientation, HeartCorps member development meetings, and assigned trainings to enhance skills and knowledge.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the HeartCorps Service Member position must meet the following qualifications:

• Must be a United States citizen, United States national, or a lawful permanent resident alien of the United States.
• Must be at least 18 years of age and possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Must have reliable transportation to and from the host site and community-based activities, along with a valid driver's license and minimum automobile liability insurance coverage as required by law.
• Strong written and oral communication skills are essential.
• Candidates should be customer and solution-focused, demonstrating good listening skills, non-judgmental attitudes, open-mindedness, and resourcefulness.
• Must satisfy the National Service Criminal History Check eligibility criteria, which includes a nationwide check of the National Sex Offender Public website, state criminal history record check, and a fingerprint-based check of the FBI criminal history record database.
• Experience as a health aide or relevant coursework in public health, health communications, health promotion, or health sciences is helpful but not mandatory.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the HeartCorps Service Member position includes a high school diploma or equivalent. While not mandatory, candidates with coursework or experience in public health, health communications, health promotion, or health sciences will be viewed favorably. This educational foundation will support the service member's ability to effectively engage with community members and deliver health education.

Experience:
While prior experience in public health or as a health aide is beneficial, it is not a strict requirement for the HeartCorps Service Member position. The role is designed to provide individuals with the opportunity to gain valuable experience in public health, making it suitable for those who may be new to the field or looking to expand their professional skills. Candidates should demonstrate a willingness to learn and engage in community service activities.

Languages:
The position does not specify mandatory languages; however, strong written and oral communication skills in English are essential. Additional language skills may be beneficial in serving diverse communities and enhancing communication with various populations.

Additional Notes:
The HeartCorps Service Member position is a full-time role with a bi-weekly living stipend of $1108.70 (taxable) for full-time service members. Benefits include healthcare coverage, a childcare subsidy if eligible, and an educational award upon successful completion of service. The program emphasizes personal and professional development, providing direct access to job opportunities upon completion. The American Heart Association is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that the program is available to all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, political affiliation, marital or parental status, genetic information, and military service.