Please note: This application is meant for prospective American Connection Corps host sites for the upcoming 2025-26 Program Year, set to commence in September 2025. We invite organizations across the nation to complete this form promptly to express your general interest – submitting this form does not signify any commitment on your part.

About Lead For America:
Lead For America (LFA) is a dynamic national nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating a generation of principled and community-focused leaders who serve their neighborhoods with passion and purpose. Through the American Connection Corps (ACC), LFA mobilizes dedicated members to contribute within digitally disconnected areas, addressing vital economic and social equity challenges.

Program Overview: American Connection Corps (ACC)
The ACC operates as an AmeriCorps program, utilizing the power of national service to bridge cultural gaps, combat economic disparities, and foster community interconnectedness by deploying members to digitally isolated communities. Members collaborate with local partners on initiatives that reinforce connections and promote a brighter tomorrow for all stakeholders involved.

ACC members concentrate their efforts on three pivotal areas:

• People: The ACC connects individuals who typically wouldn’t cross paths, whether they reside in various neighborhoods or come from different regions of the country.
• Places: Members immerse themselves in the communities they serve, cultivating meaningful, long-lasting relationships and becoming passionate advocates both during and after their service.
• Possibilities: ACC empowers members to unlock new avenues for education, health, and economic improvement by harnessing digital tools and encouraging community engagement.

Member Impact

ACC Members dedicate a full year of service in digitally disconnected communities, partnering with local organizations to promote economic vitality, enhance access to digital resources, and foster community cohesion. Their efforts yield lasting benefits by improving digital connectivity, narrowing divides, and addressing local issues with respect and cultural sensitivity.

Key Responsibilities:

• Expand Economic Opportunities: Collaborate with local entities to uncover and tackle obstacles to economic advancement, particularly those linked to digital accessibility.
• Foster Social Connectivity: Interact with diverse populations to fortify local social networks, ensuring that digital technologies are utilized to create fresh connections and opportunities.
• Tailored Service: Customize service initiatives to cater to the unique needs and aspirations of the community, reflecting local culture and needs in all programs.
• Sustainable Impact: Execute projects that will continue to benefit the community well beyond the conclusion of the service year.

Qualifications

American Connection Corps host organizations must be recognized as 501(c)(3) nonprofits, local, tribal, or state government entities, or faith-based organizations that focus on non-religious activities. Additionally, all host sites must align with one of our three program focus areas, including:

• Community and Economic Development: Broadband offices, municipal government bodies, planning commissions, connectivity-driven nonprofits, and more.
• Health and Social Capital: Community health centers, healthcare systems, housing organizations, school districts, and more.
• Agriculture and Natural Resources: Extension services, local agricultural bureaus, energy or land-use organizations, and ag-related nonprofits, among others.

Note: Host organizations are required to make a financial contribution.

• Host sites need to provide a local match to federal AmeriCorps and philanthropic support. The typical annual cost for hosting a Member is approximately $35,000. Financial scholarships may be available for eligible host organizations based on factors such as community size, organizational budget, and local needs – these can significantly decrease the overall host contribution. Complete your application to connect with an ACC representative for further details regarding your site’s contribution.