AmeriCorps Member Position Description AmeriCorps Project Director Training Saratoga, NY October 21, 2014

Position Description Overview  Why and how it is an important tool in preventing unallowable and Prohibited member activities.  Other reasons it is an important tool.  Best practices

Position Description  Programs are required to use the New York State Commission Position Description Template.  The Member Position Description must be included in the AmeriCorps Member Agreement.

Why it is important?  Helps members more clearly understand their service activities/role.  Helps Host-sites/Host-site supervisors more clearly understand the members’ role.  Helps members understand their impact on the community.  Helps prevent unallowable and Prohibited member activities. Position Description Importance

Best Practice: Requiring Host-site applicants complete the Position Description template as part of their application. Why?  To ensure member activities align with your performance measures.  Flag unallowable and Prohibited member activities proposed by a potential Host-site. Position Description Host-Site RFP/Application Process

Another Best Practice: List unallowable (the exact language from the regulation) and Prohibited member activities in the RFP/ application. Position Description Host-Site RFP/Application Process

Pay attention to member activities proposed in the Position Description by a Host-site that are or could be unallowable or Prohibited. Sections to focus on:  Mission and Goals for the specific program the member will be serving in.  Member Position Summary.  Essential Functions of Position. Position Description Host-Site RFP/Application Process

What NOT to include in member Position Descriptions:  Prohibited or unallowable activities.  Vague language; tasks and responsibilities that are not clear.  “Other duties as assigned”.  Abbreviations not defined. Position Description

Questions?