Empowering Change in National Service: Exploring Personal Growth, Initiative, and Self-Confidence in AmeriCorps Members

This report explores the “Getting Things Done” pathway of the AmeriCorps Member Exit Survey (MES) from 2017 to 2022. The AmeriCorps Member Exit Survey (MES) is a survey developed by the Office of Research and Evaluation (ORE) to learn how members understand and internalize their service experience upon exiting their programs. One of four theoretical pathways underpinning the AmeriCorps Member theory of change, “Getting Things Done” refers to AmeriCorps members’ ability to self-start, go beyond what is required, and persevere in the face of challenges. This pathway gauges members’ orientation to become agents of change. Overall, regardless of age or program, AmeriCorps members reported feeling confident in their abilities to stick to their aims and accomplish their goals, commit to solving difficult problems, handle unforeseen situations and circumstances, think of solutions to challenges, and rely on their coping abilities to remain calm when faced with difficulties.

spotlight on getting things done

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