General

What is Prevention Corps? How is it different from AmeriCorps? (I’m confused!)

Prevention Corps is an AmeriCorps program, which is a federally funded service program whose mission is to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic participation through service and volunteering through hundreds of programs throughout the nation–think of AmeriCorps as an umbrella with Prevention Corps underneath! 

Each AmeriCorps program–of which there are hundreds–is dedicated to addressing a different issue facing our country, including food insecurity, disaster preparedness, learning in public schools, domestic violence, and more. Some AmeriCorps programs you might be familiar with include Teach for America and Habitat for Humanity. 

Prevention Corps is specifIcally addressing the opioid crisis here in Connecticut by partnering with not for profit organizations across the state and training the community in the use of Narcan, a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose emergency, in addition to other projects. 

What is Catalyst? How does it relate to Prevention Corps?

Catalyst CT (formerly RYASAP) is a change-maker for underserved and marginalized youth, families, and communities in the greater Bridgeport area, serving over 50,000 people annually. They have expertise from pre-K to adulthood in restorative practices, youth development, mental health/substance misuse prevention, social-emotional learning, and advocacy, all under one roof.

As an AmeriCorps program, Prevention Corps is fulfilled at the state level by the Connecticut Commission on Community Service. The CCCS provides funding to many local nonprofits. Catalyst CT wrote a grant to receive funding for a program to address the opioid crisis in CT. Catalyst CT also hosts the HUB as well as other programs and resources.

Is being a Prevention Corps Member an internship? 

Prevention Corps might seem similar to an internship in that it offers mentoring, networking opportunities, and experience in a field—but is different in that it is a commitment to serve your community. Instead of being an employee or intern, you are a member of the Prevention Corps program and in addition to all the benefits of an internship, you will also receive a monthly cash stipend and an education award for tuition and student loans. It’s like an internship, but better—and it can often fulfill internship requirements in undergrad- and graduate-level programs.

What will I do as a Prevention Corps member? 

The tasks of a Prevention Corps member can differ greatly depending on their host site. Members have led Narcan trainings, conducted research, designed marketing materials, translated informational materials, and organized community events.  

What are some of the not for profit organizations Prevention Corps partners with? 

Along with having a strong nonprofit network, Prevention Corps works directly with Regional Behavioral Health Action Organizations (RBHAOs) across Connecticut. They are The Alliance for Prevention and Wellness, the Western Connecticut Coalition, Amplify, and the Hub.

You can learn more about our RBHAO partners on our Partnerships page.

Applicants

When are member applications due?

Applications for the 2025-2026 service term are currently open. Apply by August 1st, 2025 to receive priority matching with your host site.

The service term will run from October 1st, 2025 to August 31st, 2026.

Are there requirements to be a member?

To serve, you must be 18 years of age or older, graduated high school or have your G.E.D., and be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or legal permanent resident alien of the United States. Most importantly, you should be excited to engage in your community and make a difference in the world.

Do I have to be in college to serve with Prevention Corps?

Not at all! Some of our best members are retired, in the midst of a career change, or simply wanting to give back to their community. While commiting to serve as a Prevention Corps member is a great transition from college to a career, opportunity to fill an internship requirement at a university, or chance to explore turning your passion into your job, there are no limits on who can serve.

How much does this role pay? 

AmeriCorps offers both a modest cash stipend and education award dependent on the hours you commit to serve.

If you commit to serve full-time (1200 hours total, which breaks down to 35 hours each week for 10 months), your stipend is $20,000 with an education award of $5,176.50 to be used for tuition or student loans.

If you commit to serve part-time (900 hours total, which breaks down to 26 hours each week for 8 months), your stipend is $10,000 with an education award of $3,697.50 to be used for tuition or student loans.

Do you have options for just nights and weekends?

Unfortunately, our program requires a larger commitment that does not fit with a separate, full-time job. However, if you are passionate about making a difference in the opioid crisis, we encourage you to become certified in the use of naloxone and to contact individual nonprofits to serve with them directly.

Do you have options for remote or virtual service?

Unfortunately, our program requires a physical presence at the RBHAO where members serve. We have found that to be the best way for members to have an impact on the capacity of their host site.