AmeriCorps has been a critical foundation to Up2Us Sports since our inception. Our Founder and CEO, Paul Caccamo, received a grant in 2009 which helped officially launch the organization as the first national service program for coaches in America. Not only has AmeriCorps been integral to the people we serve and support, but it has also been integral to building the careers of many of our full-time staff members over the years. Over the past decade, numerous Up2Us Sports staff members have been service members at AmeriCorps-supported organizations before coming to work here. They brought in the experience they obtained in their service year - or in some cases, service years - to help make an immediate impact in their role at Up2Us Sports.
Meet some of our staff below as they talk about how they are #MadeInAmeriCorps and how service has changed their life and/or community.
Jake Bilger
Now: AmeriCorps VISTA, Up2Us Sports, 2019-present
Formerly: AmeriCorps NCCC North Central Region, 2018-2019
My AmeriCorps experience thus far has been transformative. My time with NCCC helped me clarify the career path I want for myself, undergo some important self-discovery, and provided me many of the most tangible moments of accomplishment in my life so far. My time as a VISTA with Up2Us Sports is only confirming that my time in AmeriCorps programs will absolutely be one of the most crucial periods of my life.
Kim Chinn
Now: Program Director, Up2Us Sports, New York, NY, 2018-present
Formerly: Teach for America Colorado, 2011-2013
AmeriCorps and Teach For America gave me foundational experiences in working with youth, youth development and education which spring-boarded my passion into a career in the non-profit sector. I owe my career to my time in AmeriCorps and the opportunities it presented to learn from those around me.
Eoin Collins
Now: Assistant Director, Up2Us Coach, Up2Us Sports, 2017-present
Formerly: AmeriCorps Coach, Up2Us Sports, 2016-2017
My experience as an AmeriCorps member with Up2Us Sports at Harlem Lacrosse was enriching. I not only learned new strategies and techniques to be a more effective coach-mentor for youth in my community, but I also developed a passion for non-profit youth development organizations.
Jerita Mitchell
Now: Program Manager, Up2Us Sports, 2019-present
Formerly: AmeriCorps Coach, Up2Us Sports, 2017-2019
AmeriCorps and Up2Us Sports gave me the opportunity to gain valuable experience in youth development while working towards obtaining my Masters degree. AmeriCorps also gave me the opportunity to serve my community; to give back to those who gave to me.
Frank Nares
Now: Program Director, Up2Us Sports, 2018-present
Formerly: AmeriCorps Coach, Up2Us Sports, 2015-2017
My AmeriCorps experience was great. It was a chance for me to give back to my community and to kids that grew up in similar situations and neighborhoods as me.
Andrew Neilsen
Now: National Training Manager, Up2Us Sports, 2017-present
Formerly: Chicago Rehab Network, 2007-2009; Urban Initiatives, 2011-2012
I 100% was made in AmeriCorps. AmeriCorps gave me critical opportunities and knowledge to get my career started and then to change it. I really owe the opportunities I've had to the connections that I've made through national service.
Kelsey Wheeler
Now: Operations Manager, Up2Us Coach, Up2Us Sports, 2019-present
Formerly: City Year - Miami, 2015-2016; United Way/Educurious, 2017-2018
AmeriCorps gave me the opportunity to think entirely different about my path in my life and career. It gave me the chance to develop and deepen existing passions while exploring new ones.
