Meet Our Partner Sites

True North AmeriCorps places members at schools, nonprofit agencies, government programs, and community centers in greater Minnesota. By hosting an AmeriCorps member, our sites are providing a professional development opportunity as well as receiving invaluable support to better meet community needs through expanded capacity. Check out our sites across the Duluth area and Northern Minnesota. 

AMERICAN INDIAN COMMUNITY HOUSING ORGANIZATION

Located in downtown Duluth, American Indian Community Housing Organization (AICHO) is a permanent supportive housing center dedicated to honoring the resiliency of Indigenous people. AICHO's Children's Program provides out-of-school time activities for all ages that restore connections to culture as a path to health and healing. The Children's Program is a safe, consistent space for children in AICHO's permanent supportive housing program to access activities that foster the development of identity, belonging, independence, mastery of skills, generosity, and the protective assets that offset trauma experiences and build resiliency. We utilize culturally-based healthy eating, access to Indigenous food systems and culturally-based physical activities to restore connections to culture as a path to health and healing. The program offers after school activities that are health-focused and include urban gardening, food preparation, and cultural activities.

BARNUM ELEMENTARY

Barnum Elementary is a small community with a big heart! The True North AmeriCorps member at this site works closely with the school counselor and team of Positive Behavior Intervention System (PBIS) and SEL leaders to build up systems of support. SEL interventions are provided for identified students throughout the day using positive relationship building, small group lessons, and individual lessons. Members also spend time with students during less structured parts of the day to assist students in applying learned skills to real social settings.

BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northland has a rich history of being at the forefront of youth development. High quality out of school time programming falls into five core programming areas: character & leadership development, health & life skills, education & career development, sports, fitness & recreation, and the arts. The team of skillful, caring adults at Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northland is integral to providing enrichment, hope, and opportunity for our community’s youth. This position facilitates programming for youth ages 6 to 18 and serves as role models to a diverse population. We are looking for someone energetic, motivated, and who enjoys working with youth.

If you’re looking for a supportive service environment where you can make a difference in the lives of youth, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northland is the place for you. We are looking for someone energetic, motivated, and who enjoys working with youth. Experience or training in coaching sports teams, teaching, visual or performing arts.

There are two Boys and Girls Club sites in Duluth: Goldberg Branch and Lincoln Park Branch. Both are TNAC sites.

 

Carlton County Community and Family Initiatives Department

The Carlton County Community and Family Initiatives Department strives to create an equitable community where all people can reach their full potential. The collaborative plans and coordinates the local service systems serving children and families, including children and youth with mental health needs. AmeriCorps members at Carlton County community and Family initiatives Department will join a group of professionals partnering with school districts and community sites to build positive relationships with youth. Learn more about programming on their website

CHESTER BOWL DAY CAMP (SUMMER SITE)

At Chester Bowl Day Camp, we promise parents to return their children at the end of the day "tired, happy, and dirty"! Will you help us keep our promise? Our camp is Mondays through Thursdays with programming from 8am-5pm. We are outside all day everyday, except in the absolute worst weather. AmeriCorps members will be with campers exploring nature, building forts, jumping in the creek, making crafts out of anything and everything, hammocking, hiking to nearby parks, teaching wacky new group games, and leading nature based activities. Our programming is guided by our Peace in the Parks philosophy about how we treat each other. We love to see the social and emotional growth in campers and watch their friendships deepen as the summer progresses. We have three camp locations within Chester Bowl, each has 28 campers per week, supported by three staff members, an AmeriCorps member, and teen "Incredible" volunteers. Are you ready to be tired, happy, and dirty at eh end of every day? Join Chester Bowl Day Camp!

DAMIANO CENTER KIDS' KITCHEN

The Damiano Center is the largest emergency meal provider in Northeastern Minnesota also offering drop in children's programming, a clothing program for people seeking employment, and referrals for basic assistance. A very diverse staff seek daily to welcome people in need and serve them without judgement. Kid's Kitchen works to reduce childhood hunger and malnutrition by providing nutritious meals, nutrition education, and a fun place for kids both after school and in the summer. Kids' Kitchen seeks to make sure that al children have access to quality, healthy food. We emphasize nutrition education through the fun, hands-on experience of preparing food, and organize gardening. Activities also include art, physical activities, and activities to honor the culture and heritage of the diverse children who come to Kids' Kitchen.

DEER RIVER SCHOOLS ISD 317

Welcome to ISD 317 in Deer River, Minnesota! We are looking for caring adults who are committed to helping our students succeed. Our AmeriCorps members work with students at King Elementary School and Deer River High School to help promote and strengthen their social emotional skills through relationship building, small group instruction and supporting the student in their daily schedule. Deer River School are unique as our size allows us to not only get to know our students, but their families as well. 

 

DULUTH CHILDREN'S MUSEUM (SUMMER SITE)

The Duluth Children's Museum engages children in hands-on learning through creative play and interactive exhibits. Unique exhibits and programming introduce children to the world and people around them with the idea that we can further children's natural curiosity by asking questions and providing a learning rich environment. The member at this site will help the museum to reach hundreds of additional children and families in need through outreach, pop up programming, and other partnerships.

 

DULUTH EDISON CHARTER SCHOOLS

Established in 1997, Duluth Edison Charter Schools (DECS) is known for its commitment to personal and academic growth, as well as it’s adherence to values, innovation and progressive learning. DECS offers specialized and extracurricular programs designed to meet diverse student needs including outdoor education, STEAM activities, play-based learning, athletics and clubs, as well as academic and social/behavior interventions, special education services, and English Language Learner programming.  Key components of the DECS culture include a freedom to experiment and a freedom to fail approach to innovation, a supportive and solution-based mentality and a belief system that we are always doing something special. 

TNAC has sites at North Star Academy and Raleigh Academy. The AmeriCorps members will be integrated within the school community, serving in the classroom and through individual and small group sessions as determined by student needs. North Star Academy is a larger K-8 school and has created an atmosphere of “three schools within one.”  The North Star Junior Academy serves about 350 middle school students (grades 6-8).  Raleigh Academy, located in the heart of the West Duluth community, serves about 220 students in grades K-5.

DULUTH PUBLIC LIBRARY (SUMMER SITE)

Do you enjoy working with youth and want to encourage reading? Join our team at the Duluth Public Library this summer! Spend your summer engaging with youth of all ages and making a positive change in the community. If you enjoy a variety of activities, working as a team, and being creative, this position could be a great fit for you!

The Duluth Public Library strengthens our community by promoting the love of reading and life-long discovery, helping ensure children are ready and excited to learn, offering robust connections to the digital world, and providing a creative and welcoming environment for all. Support a variety of in person and/or virtual program offerings.

EAGLE'S NEST

Eagle’s Nest is a collaborative program of the Duluth YMCA and Duluth Edison Charter Schools, formally known as Kid’s Club, offered at North Star Academy and Raleigh Academy. The philosophy of the program is to offer a safe and engaging out-of-school time program that complements the school day and creates an enriching environment that fosters positive youth development and academic success. 

Structured daily programming includes a snack and physical activity, academic enrichment and choice time. Edison Charter Schools have several “no school” days throughout the year during which Eagle’s Nest has a full day program with students including field trips and other fun activities. We love to play outside on the playgrounds and group games in the gym. We all work as a team here and have a very upbeat group of employees!

Eagle's Nest sites exist at North Star Academy and Raleigh Academy.

ELY COMMUNITY RESOURCE (SUMMER SITE)

Ely Community Resource (ECR) Youth Programs foster youth development through activities designed to increase self-esteem, build a sense of community, and provide positive adult relationships. During the summer months, ECR staff provide reading programs, enrichment activities, recreational activities, social emotional learning, and interest clubs, in a safe, warm, and welcoming setting. Fun educational activities indoors and outside are planned with ample opportunities for a True North member's input. the member will also be able to incorporate their ideas and interests in developing enrichment programming. ECR's extensive collaboration with other community groups will give useful experience and networks for members This is a great placement for someone interested in outdoor and experiential education.

FIRST WITNESS CHILD ADVOCACY CENTER

For over 30 years, First Witness Child Advocacy Center has been committed to strengthening the communities' response to child abuse and ending child abuse. First Witness has two programs: forensic interviews and family advocacy. The AmeriCorps member will support the advocacy program, primarily using the Safe and Strong Child curriculum, but they may also support youth and families seeking support for allegations of child maltreatment as well as support groups. In this role, the member will help present to thousands of kids in greater Duluth, Carlton County, and Lake County schools.  

GARY NEW DULUTH REC CENTER & FOOD ACCESS

Gary New Duluth Rec Center (GND) is located directly next to Stowe Elementary. The program serves around 45 youth per day, many from low income or minority households. The program's focus is on environmental education and getting kids outside in all kids of weather. 13 acres of school forest are explored year round in rain boots or on snowshoes. Much program time is spent active in the woods learning about nature and building forts. Gary New Duluth is a close-knit community with dedicated staff. In this role members will have opportunities to lead outdoor and environmental education activities, trying things they may have never done (like ice fishing)!

Gary New Duluth is also a distribution site for The Y's Food Access programming. Members placed here would have the opportunity to plan, prepare, pack, record, and distribute large quantities of food to community members. 

HARBOR HIGHLANDS - LITTLE Y & FOOD ACCESS

Harbor Highlands (also called the Little Y) is a fun and fast paced drop in youth center in the upper Central Hillside serving youth in K-12th grade. Youth here enjoy playing in the gym, doing arts and crafts, working on homework, and playing with computers. The AmeriCorps member will assist in planning for the program, leading activities, and helping with different clubs such as cooking, STEM, nature, and others depending on members and youths interests.  Many youth here struggle with academics and are below grade level.

This is a great site for AmeriCorps members to get youth back on track for graduation. One of the best parts of serving at Harbor Highlands is getting to work with youth from different backgrounds and the high energy youth bring to the program each day!

ISD 709

Independent School District #709, or Duluth Public Schools, provides public education in Duluth through nine elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools. AmeriCorps members serve during the school year to support youth social emotional learning skills in an academic environment at the following schools:

Laura MacArthur Elementary School

Stowe Elementary School

K.E.Y. ZONE

K.E.Y. Zone (Knowledge, Enrichment, and Youth Development) is a collaborative program of the Duluth YMCA and ISD 709 Community Education. The locations of these high quality programs are at all 9 Duluth Public Elementary Schools, which provides services for grades K-5 year round including summer and school breaks.  KEY Zone offers structured daily afterschool programming that includes a snack and physical activity, academic enrichment and choice time. See all the K.E.Y. Zone sites below.

Congdon Park Elementary

Homecroft Elementary

Lakewood Elementary

Laura MacArthur Elementary

Lowell Elementary

Myers-Wilkins Elementary

Piedmont Elementary

Stowe Elementary

MARSHALL FOREST SCHOOL

Opening fall 2022, the Forest School is an innovative, nature-based elementary school whose goals are to promote student curiosity, autonomy, critical thinking, and collaboration. TNAC members here will be primarily outside, supporting students organized into multi-grade learning pods. The emphasis of these groups is community building, connection, belonging, and reflection. Approximately 40% of each day will be spent outside using Marshall's 40+ acre campus.

The Forest School is part of the greater Marshall School, whose educational philosophy is the understanding that a student’s educational journey ​​is the starting place of a lifelong ripple effect. At Marshall, students are encouraged to discover their own unique path in life. During their time at Marshall students explore their intellectual curiosity, develop strong academic habits, and understand what it means to become a global citizen.

NORTH COUNTRY RIDE (SUMMER SITE)

Calling all horse lovers! North Country Ride is a peaceful farm atmosphere seeking your support. The mission is to promote personal growth and development through equine assisted therapeutic, educational, and recreational activities. The AmeriCorps members at this site will assist with caring for the horses, equine therapy lessons, volunteer mobilization, and maintaining COVID safety. North Country RIDE serves 100 students annually from all walks of life, ages, and abilities. This site is great for someone who likes to stay busy, enjoys variety, and is interested in working with individuals with disabilities. Staying active is not hard to do!

VALLEY YOUTH CENTER

The Valley Youth Center is a kid centered drop in program in the Spirit Valley Neighborhood. We work to overcome obstacles to make kids’ dreams come true. Youth who come to our program often come with varying needs and from environments that could be considered non-traditional. To be successful here, you need to have high levels of energy, compassion, tolerance, patience and forgiveness, and creativity. Come willing to be put to the test by kids and able to hold them accountable. Be excited to jump into a quasi-chaotic environment where the kids are loud, full of energy, and bouncing off the walls.

Know that it will take time to build trust, but after doing so the members at this site can make a real difference supporting kids' social emotional needs and coping skills. Applicants should be  willing to try new things, present new ideas, and keep kids safe while allowing for exploration and play. The VYC is a unique site that may not be a fit for those seeking a quiet, relaxed, structured environment.

 

YMCA CAMP MILLER (SUMMER SITE)

Camp Miller provides positive life-enhancing experiences for youth and their families through activities that focus on teaching the Y's core values, developing life skills, and building character in a safe, fun, supportive outdoor setting. Join an exciting summer camp program serving campers 5-17 years of age. Serve alongside a diverse group of counselors including folks from around the world. AmeriCorps members serving at Camp Miller receive free on-site housing and meals all summer. They are offering a variety of options for serving this summer including Day Camp, Mental Health, and Break at the Lake Specialist positions.

YMCA DAY CAMP (SUMMER SITE)

The Y Day Camp is all about fun in the outdoors. The program's focus is on environmental education and getting kids outside. Much program time is spent active in the woods learning about nature, hiking, hammocking, and building forts. Outdoor games, fishing, biking, campfires, and swimming are just a few more of our fun activities In this role members will have opportunities to lead outdoor and environmental education activities, trying things they may have never done (like archery!). 

 

Camp will take place at two locations this summer:

The Essentia Wellness Center 

North Star Academy

Want to become a Partner Site?

Without our partner sites, we couldn't accomplish our program goals. We aim to expand capacity of our sites while increasing youth participants’ social and emotional learning skills through site-based enrichment programming, individualized support, and targeted skill building. Do you think your site would be a good fit for a True North AmeriCorps Member? Contact us at TrueNorth@duluthymca.org or 218-722-4745 x169. 

“I don’t know what I would have done without our members this summer. We had lots of youth with special needs or challenging behaviors and with the extra support from our AmeriCorps members their parents were able to feel good about leaving their kids at camp.”

 

Emily Marshall - Camp Miller Supervisor 

"Our members provide the extra support to youth who need it. They have gone above and beyond to make sure youth feel safe, welcomed, and supported. I don’t always have time to do the extra things I want to and this is where AmeriCorps has been really helpful."

 

Leslie Bucar - GND Site Supervisor 

“Lots of parents are saying the camp experience has been phenomenal this summer. I think this comes down to the relationships the members have built with the youth”

 

Dave Schaffer - Chester Bowl Site Supervisor

 

 

 

True North AmeriCorps is facilitated by the Duluth Area Family YMCA and funded by AmeriCorpsServeMinnesota, and our local partners.