The AmeriCorps NCCC Wellness Resources focus on your health and wellness. Your wellbeing is extremely important to us which is why NCCC provides health benefits and other resources to assist you in your own self-care. Here you will find information on how to access everything from telehealth visits with a licensed provider to self-care resources like meditation and yoga. You will also find information on your NCCC health benefits and how to request a reasonable accommodation.
For life threatening emergencies, please call 911 immediately!
NCCC Health Benefits
International Medical Group (IMG)
https://americorpsnccc.imglobal.com/
Telephone: 855-851-2974 (toll-free)
Email: NCCCcare@imglobal.com
P.O. Box 88506 Indianapolis, Indiana 46208
Health Benefits Issues
Please utilize the Health Benefit Troubleshooting Form to report specific issues with the AmeriCorps Health Benefit Plan.
Member Assistance Program (MAP)
https://www.mylifeexpert.com
Telephone: 1-800-451-1834
Code: AmeriCorps
This initiative, provided by AllOne Health, customizes services in a way that encourages healthy choices while supporting the unique needs of AmeriCorps Members, including the ongoing need for adaptation. It supports the specific AmeriCorps NCCC population in this non-traditional work setting. Available 24/7 for immediate help, setting up sessions and for follow ups
Press option 1: Help now! Individual Member calls directly. Available 24/7. Provides “In the Moment” support for personal or program related stressors. No cost.
Press 2: Help Later! Individual Member calls directly. Available 24/7. To arrange telephone, video, or in-person sessions with a therapist. MAP covers three sessions at no cost.
Press 3: Work and Life Coaching Individual Member calls directly. Available 24/7. For work coaching, life coaching, professional development topics, conflict resolution, medical advocacy, referral to legal and financial resources. No cost.
NCCC Health Benefits Plan Guide
https://americorpsnccc.imglobal.com/resources/member-guide
The AmeriCorps NCCC Health Benefit Plan is a self-funded health benefit plan created by AmeriCorps and paid for with funds appropriated by Congress. This is a limited healthcare plan administered by International Medical Group, Inc. (IMG® ) this is not an insurance policy. Upon request, material will be made available in Spanish and alternative formats for people with disabilities.
Teladoc
https://www.teladoc.com
Telephone: 1-800-835-2362
This service provides virtual care that includes treatment for behavioral health and some minor, physical health needs. Appointment times are flexible, including weekends. Appointments can be booked online or on the mobile app. Behavioral health sessions are unlimited with no co-pay.
NCCC Reasonable Accommodations
A reasonable accommodation is any change in the NCCC service environment (or in the way things are usually done) to help a person with a disability or with a sincerely held religious belief in performing the duties or expectation of national service with AmeriCorps NCCC.
Reasonable accommodations may include, but are not limited to:
- Making existing facilities readily accessible to individuals with disabilities;
- Acquisition or modification of equipment or devices, including computer software and hardware, appropriate adjustments or modifications of examinations, training materials or policies, the provision of qualified readers and/or interpreters and other similar accommodations.
- Requesting reasonable accommodation: A NCCC applicant or member may request a reasonable accommodation at any time, verbally or in writing.
- If known, also include what type of reasonable accommodations is being requested.
Contact NCCCHealthUnit@cns.gov for any questions or concerns.
Cultural Wellness
LGBTQIA+ Support
Trevor Project for Young LGBTQIA+ Lives
https://www.thetrevorproject.org
Crisis counselors are trained to answer calls, chats, or texts from LGBTQ young people who reach out on our free, confidential, and secure 24/7 service when they are struggling with issues such as coming out, LGBTQ identity, depression, and suicide
Text START to 678-678 or call 1-866-488-7386
It Gets Better Project
The It Gets Better Project is a global non-profit that reaches millions of young people each year through inspiring media programming, educational resources, international affiliates in 19 countries, and access to an arsenal of community-based service providers.
Trans Lifeline
https://translifeline.org/
Telephone: 1-877-565-8860
Trans Lifeline is run by and for trans people. Trans Lifeline is a grassroots hotline and microgrants 501(c)(3) non-profit organization offering direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis – for the trans community, by the trans community.
LGBT National Help Center
https://www.lgbthotline.org/
Telephone: 1-888-843-4564
All our support volunteers identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ family, and are here to serve the entire community, by providing free & confidential peer-support, information, and local resources through national hotlines and online programs.
Transgender Law Center
https://www.transgenderlawcenter.org
Transgender Law Center is the largest national trans-led organization advocating self-determination for all people. Grounded in legal expertise and committed to racial justice, we employ a variety of community-driven strategies to keep transgender and gender nonconforming people alive, thriving, and fighting for liberation.
Trans and Nonbinary Support
AmeriCorps Resources
State Laws Impacting Transgender and Nonbinary Members and Staff on Service Deployments
Trans and Nonbinary Emergency Resources
Trans Lifeline
https://translifeline.org/
Telephone: 1-877-565-8860
Trans Lifeline is run by and for trans people. Trans Lifeline is a grassroots hotline and microgrants 501(c)(3) non-profit organization offering direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis – for the trans community, by the trans community.
Transgender Law Center
https://www.transgenderlawcenter.org
Transgender Law Center is the largest national trans-led organization advocating self-determination for all people. Grounded in legal expertise and committed to racial justice, we employ a variety of community-driven strategies to keep transgender and gender nonconforming people alive, thriving, and fighting for liberation.
Mental Health Crisis and Suicide Prevention
Suicide Prevention Lifeline
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org
The current Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will always remain available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis, even after 988 is launched nationally.
988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This dialing code is available to everyone across the United States.
When people call, text, or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary.
Crisis Counselor Text Line
https://www.crisistextline.org/
How It Works. Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States, anytime. Crisis Text Line is here for any crisis. A live, trained Crisis Counselor receives the text and responds, all from our secure online platform. The volunteer Crisis Counselor will help you move from a hot moment to a cool moment.
National Non-Crisis Warm Lines
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
https://www.nami.org/home
Telephone: 1-800-950-6264
NAMI Focuses on Raising Awareness and Providing Support and Education to Those in Need. Available Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. (EST)
MHA Screening
For when you are not in crisis but could still use someone to talk to locally. The person on the line provides a non-judgmental, supportive voice. The person on the receiving end provides information about local resources.
Sexual Assault
AmeriCorps NCCC Members may reach out for confidential support, at any time and for any reason, by calling or texting the AmeriCorps NCCC Sexual Assault Hotline. The AmeriCorps NCCC Sexual Assault Hotline is administered by RAINN (Rape, Abuse, Incest National Network). Members will be speaking to a representative from their network when they call. AmeriCorps staff and law enforcement are not notified of hotline contacts or access unless disclosure is required by law. Such disclosure is extremely rare and generally occurs only when there is an imminent safety concern.
AmeriCorps NCCC Sexual Assault Hotline
http://bit.ly/NCCC-SexualAssault.com
1-866-869-1176
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN)
Provides educational resources and support opportunities.
www.RAINN.org
1-800-656-4673
Prevention of Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault
AmeriCorps NCCC Prevention of Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault training is designed to provide members; the expectations regarding professional behavior and appropriate boundaries in the workplace. In addition the training is intended to support member health, safety, and well-being in the program environment. This training is available for review and reference after completion in the group setting at the members Regional Campus.
Substance Abuse Assistance
Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
https://www.samhsa.gov/
Telephone: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
SAMHSA’s National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders.
Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.)
Find a meeting location near you: https://www.aa.org/
Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of people who come together to solve their drinking problem. It doesn't cost anything to attend A.A. meetings. There are no age or education requirements to participate. Membership is open to anyone who wants to do something about their drinking problem.
Narcotics Anonymous (N.A.)
Find a meeting location near you: https://www.na.org/
Narcotics Anonymous is a fellowship of people who come together to support one another in their drug abuse problem. It doesn't cost anything to attend N.A. meetings. There are no age or education requirements to participate. Membership is open to anyone who wants to do something about their drug abuse problem.
Self-Guided Relaxation and Mindful Activities
Team/Individual/Relaxation/Stress Management
Introduction: Sometimes relaxing can be as simple as taking a break from the work you are doing. Sometimes it requires focus and intention to take that break mentally. Learning effective ways to relax and be mindful can help members better manage stress and distressing emotions. Mindfulness is more than just distraction. It helps us learn how to stop thinking about the source of our distress and shift our attention to something peaceful/relaxing.
- Participation should be encouraged but voluntary.
- Remind Team Members that they can engage in these activities on their own as well.
Goal: Use relaxation techniques to enhance mindfulness and relaxation during quiet time. Time: Length of time can vary based on the needs of the group. To start a regular practice, try to hold the group each night near lights out/quiet time for 15-30 minutes in length. If the team realizes the benefit of the activity and wants to do it longer, feel free to do so.
Participants: Good for new and established teams or Individuals.
Setting: Enough room to accommodate each group member to have some space to sit or lie down if desired, preferably not on their bed/mattress. Some suggested activities may require movement.
Materials: Optional: Insight Timer. Insight Timer is a free app with relaxing music, guided meditation, binaural beats and talks about various topics like anxiety, stress and sleep. Material can be accessed through the app or webpage. Some suggested activities require pen/paper or a journal. Laptop or Smart Phone.
Instructions:
- Selected Leader gives a brief introduction to the activity and demonstrates as needed.
- Personal device alerts should be set to silent or shut off, so as not to distract the group’s concentration.
- Participants are not required to do the activity (because some people might have difficulty focusing on certain activities) but will be asked to remain in the group honoring the quiet time and avoiding use of personal devices. Even if they are not directly participating in the activity, they will benefit from the quiet time and peaceful atmosphere.
- The leader can guide the activity if they have the experience, skill, or desire.
- Teams can repeat previous activities that have been used.
Ideas to get you started:
- Yoga
- Deep breathing exercises
- Guided Meditation
- Relaxing Music
- Nature Sounds
- Drawing:
- Freestyle, or draw themes like cooperation, peace, teamwork, self-sacrifice, strength, love, etc.
- Mindful Doodling https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7o6w_Czrff4
- Journaling (free style or pose some journal topics)
- Stargazing/cloud busting:
- Lying down outside and focusing on the stars/sky/clouds)
- Watching the sunset/sunrise
- Listening to talks on relaxation, mindfulness, and stress
- Gratitude Group: List all the things you are thankful for and share
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I already have primary health insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, or TriCare? Should I keep my existing health insurance plan during my service term?
Yes, a Member should keep their existing insurance plan. The existing insurance plan is the Member's primary coverage. When asked about insurance coverage the Member should always use their primary insurance first and then use the AmeriCorps NCCC Health Benefit as a secondary payer.
You should discuss this with your current insurance provider. AmeriCorps NCCC does not provide health insurance and pre-existing conditions are not covered. Many state-provided coverages like Medicaid are only valid within the state that they are issued. For specific coverage questions please contact your insurance provider.
Is the NCCC Health Benefit Plan the same as health insurance? What make the NCCC “Health Benefit Plan” different from health insurance?
No, the AmeriCorps Healthcare Benefits Plan is not insurance. The approved benefits are paid directly by AmeriCorps. There is no insurance company involved.
There are two key differences between the coverage provided by the NCCC Health Benefit plan and most health insurance plans:
- The NCCC Health Benefit Plan does not provide coverage for any diagnosis that is considered a pre-existing condition. A pre-existing condition is defined as any condition or illness for which medical treatment was given, or a diagnosis was made, on or before the start of your service term.
- The NCCC Health Benefit Plan does not provide coverage for routine or preventative care.
The NCCC Health Benefit Plan only covers limited medical services for injuries or illnesses incurred during your NCCC service term. You can see a full list of coverages and exclusions on pages 5-15 of the NCCC Health Benefit Plan Guide.
How do I find a healthcare provider within the IMG network?
NCCC Members can look on the IMG website for a network provider. If there is not a local provider available or none are coming up in the search it is best to call IMG directly. The IMG customer service phone line is best equipped to assist NCCC Members with finding a provider or directing the member to another suitable covered option.
AmeriCorps NCCC IMG Website
Telephone: 855-851-2974 (toll-free)
What if I can’t find a provider near me?
You can find a provider by searching the IMG First Health Provider Locator online or by calling IMG at 855-851-2974.
If the nearest provider is over 35 miles from your lodging address or SPIKE location, you are exempt from the provider network guideline and can see a provider that is non-network. This should be verified by calling IMG before making an appointment.
You will need to call IMG Customer Care at 855-851-2974 to coordinate your exemption and receive care from an out-of-network provider in your area.
What if I am serving outside of the continental US and need to see a provider or access the ER?
In a life-threatening situation, the closest ER should be utilized.
If there is not a threat to loss of life or limb, just like in the continental US, you should first determine if there is a Preferred Provider Network (PPO) provider in your area. You may visit the International Medical Group website at AmeriCorps NCCC IMG Website or you can call International Medical Group toll free at 855-851-2974 to verify if there is a PPO in your area. If there is, you should see a provider in the network. If it is determined that there are in fact no PPO providers within 35 miles your area any provider of service may be used without penalty.
Does the Health Benefit Plan cover vision services?
Routine vision care and exams are not covered. Please refer to the NCCC Health Benefit Plan Guide for more information.
Does the Health Benefit Plan cover dental services?
Coverage is limited and only for emergencies. Routine dental visits are not covered. Please refer to the NCCC Health Benefit Plan Guide for more information.
What counseling or therapy services are available during my service term?
NCCC Members may access mental health services through multiple channels.
- Teledoc - Provides virtual care that includes treatment for behavioral health and some minor, physical health needs. Appointment times are flexible, including weekends. Appointments can be booked online or on the mobile app. Behavioral health sessions are unlimited with no co-pay.
- Member Assistance Program or MAP – Supports the specific AmeriCorps NCCC population in this non-traditional work setting. Available 24/7 for immediate help, setting up sessions and for follow ups. Members may not stay with the same provider for follow-ups.
- Community Providers – NCCC Members may choose to see a provider in the community or one that they have an established relationship with that accepts their private insurance, the NCCC Health Benefit or choose to pay out of pocket.
What if I need to refill my medications?
If you are taking a prescribed medication, you will need to talk to your prescriber about how to obtain refills while you serve. NCCC recommends you arrive to campus with an initial 90-day supply of all medications when possible. Controlled medications (often taken for ADD or Anxiety) require the most consideration while serving due to state licensing laws. Below are some things to consider when talking to your provider about obtaining prescriptions while serving.
- Ask you provider if they will be able to continue to prescribe while you are away serving with NCCC.
- Discuss the process for obtaining refills including which type of pharmacy will be best.
Using a local pharmacy:
- Consider using a national chain pharmacy like CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens, Target, Costco, or Walmart so you can easily transfer any refills to another location as your project sites change throughout your service term. Please note, certain controlled medications cannot be transferred and would therefore require a new prescription.
Using a mail order pharmacy:
- May require a 90-day prescription as opposed to a standard 30-day supply.
- As your project locations change, you would need to change the delivery address listed for your medications.
- May require a signature on receipt.
- If you plan to use your IMG coverage to obtain prescriptions, the mail order pharmacy option is preferred.
How do I file a workers compensation claim if I was injured during service?
NCCC Injured Member or Claimant: claiming workers' compensation benefits for work-related injuries or illnesses under the Federal Employees' Compensation Act (FECA). The Injured NCCC Member must create an ECOMP account to file a claim and can access case information after verifying their identity. An Injured Member may upload documents without creating an ECOMP account. https://www.ecomp.dol.gov/#/
What if I have specific food preferences or special dietary needs?
AmeriCorps NCCC members will shop, prepare, and eat with their teammates all year. Members with dietary preferences or restrictions (vegetarian, halal, kosher, allergies, etc.) will work with their team to provide foods or alternative meals that fulfill dietary needs. There is no guarantee that food preferences will be honored; in this case members may need to supplement their food budget with personal funds.