Indiana United Ways’ United Against Opioid Abuse program places members at local United Ways across Indiana to serve directly in their local communities, listen to community members and local stakeholders, and gather research on the opioid and substance use issues. United Ways in Indiana are known for engaging communities and mobilizing resources to fight for basic human needs. The United Against Opioid Abuse program utilizes AmeriCorps members to assist United Ways and other community organizations in:
- conducting a landscape scan about how their community is experiencing the substance use problem;
- conducting an asset map to help leaders look at community resources systemically;
- and engaging the community as part of the solution.
AmeriCorps members will also assist in collaborating with community and human service organizations to engage the community as part of the solution to opioid use at the local level. The primary focus of member service will be mapping assets in the community to address the needs of those with substance use disorder. This work supports existing coalitions currently working on prevention and response to problematic opioid use. The members will also:
- establish and/or maintain collaborations with targeted organizations in the community based on recommendations from previous program years;
- attend applicable community coalition and United Way staff meetings;
- conduct Community Conversations and training on Harwood Institute, as needed;
- participate in community and networking events to help raise awareness of substance and opioid use, and to connect resources;
- identify and facilitate possible collaborations between organizations with shared goals;
- and develop and update presentations to socialize findings and research conducted throughout the year of service.
Members are required to attend all mandatory AmeriCorps meetings and statewide trainings conducted by Indiana United Ways. This position requires up to 20% time spent in professional development and training, much of which is provided by Indiana United Ways.
Members will serve September 16th, 2019 to August 21st, 2020, receive a living stipend of up to $15,192, student loan forbearance for eligible loans, professional development training. Upon successful completion of service, members will also receive an education award to pay off eligible student loans or to help with tuition. Full time members are eligible to receive health coverage and childcare assistance. Full time positions statewide are available.