True North AmeriCorps

What is True North AmeriCorps?

True North AmeriCorps (TNAC) is a program of the Lake Superior YMCA dedicated to engaging citizens in solving community problems related to education and youth development. Members of this program work with youth in various capacities ranging from building interpersonal skills and social competencies to general homework assistance

Apply to Serve Today!

Program Goals

Our goals are to increase youth interpersonal and social competency skills by placing members throughout the community to serve as role models and increase program site capacity to meet youth needs.

What is AmeriCorps?

AmeriCorps is a national service network connecting thousands of Americans each year to address critical needs in education, public safety, health, and the environment. At True North AmeriCorps, members partner with schools and other youth serving organizations to support youth across Northern Minnesota— making a lasting impact in our communities.

What Do True North AmeriCorps Members Do?

Members work one-on-one and in small groups to help youth succeed in school and life by teaching:

Communication & active listening
Self-awareness & self-management
Teamwork & leadership
Conflict resolution & empathy
Responsible decision-making & relationship skills

Our Impact

Community Impact: In the 2024-2025 service term, TNAC members invested 26,241 hours at partner sites—thanks to support from AmeriCorps, Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation, Lloyd K. Johnson Foundation, Northland Foundation, Ordean Foundation, and ServeMinnesota.
Youth Impact: Just one caring adult can make a world of difference. Our members help youth build resilience and confidence through positive relationships and skill-building.

Apply and Make a Difference!

Applications for summer sites are now open! Summer terms will begin on May 18 or June 8, 2026, and members will serve through August 21, 2026.

Full-Time Positions Available (35+ hours/week)

Duluth Children's Museum- starts May 18
Hartley Nature Center - starts May 18 3 Positions Available!
Lake Superior Zoo- Starts June 8
Many Rivers Montessori School - Starts June 8
YMCA Day Camp (Essentia Wellness Center)-Starts June 8
YMCA Day Camp (North Star Academy)- Starts June 8
Grand Rapids Learning Academy (Grand Rapids, MN)- starts June 8

Full-Time OR Part-Time Positions Available (25 or 35+ hours/week)

Duluth Public Library- starts May 18
KEYZone at Lowell Elementary- starts May 18 or June 8

Part-Time Positions Available (25 hours/week)

YMCA Day Camp (Cook County- Grand Marais, MN) - starts May 18
Harbor Highlands Drop-In Center - starts May 18

Keep an eye out for more positions being added!

Applications for the May 18 start date are due by May 1, 2026.

Applications for the June 8 start date are due by May 22, 2026.

Once you begin your application, it is recommended that you finish in one session. You cannot save and return to this online application. We encourage you to type up your responses in advance. You can view the questions and learn more about the application process by checking out our Application Checklist and our Applicant Guide.

Apply Here

Application Resources

Open Applicant Guide Open Application Checklist 2025-26 Application

NON-DISCRIMINATION AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

TNAC, and the Y, strive to create a welcoming and respectful environment for all. This program is available to all, without discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, religion, age, national origin, genetic information, disability, military status, familial status, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law. In addition to federal law requirements, the Y complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination. Reasonable accommodations provided upon request for interviews and service activities.