Here, you’ll find the answers to many of our frequently asked questions.
If you can’t find the information you’re looking for here, please contact us.
What is your mission?
We train young leaders to power a green and inclusive economy, through service.
You can read our full mission, vision, and values here.
Legal Status:
Green City Force is a 501(c)3 organization, Tax ID #80-0428040.
Who does GCF Serve?
Green City Force recruits 18 – 24 year old young adults who reside in New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) developments or affordable/low-income housing in NYC. Through AmeriCorps service, Corps Members give back to the communities in which they reside and build skills necessary to maintain meaningful, quality employment.
Who are AmeriCorps members?
Individuals that commit their time and skills to get things done for America.
How long is a term of service?
Terms of service range from 6 to 10 months.
What are the benefits of graduating from Green City Force?
GCF prepares young adults to successfully compete for & advance in quality careers in the green economy.
GCF Corps Members receive:
- Training, skills and industry certifications
- Monthly stipend
- Unlimited monthly Metrocard
- AmeriCorps Segal Education Award for continuing your education and training
- Wraparound supportive services
- Career services including after graduation
What is NYCHA?
The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) is the largest public housing authority in North America. It was created in 1935 to provide decent, affordable housing for low- and moderate-income New Yorkers. NYCHA is home to 1 in 16 New Yorkers. For more information see the 2022 NYCHA Fact Sheet or the NYCHA website.
What is an Education Award?
The Segal AmeriCorps Education Award is a benefit VISTA, AmeriCorps, and NCCC members receive upon successful completion of their term of service. The award can be used to go to specific schools or repay qualifying student loans. There are general terms that guide the use of the award and a process to follow to access your funds. The award is subject to taxes.
What are Farms at NYCHA?
Farms at NYCHA, is part of Building Healthy Communities (BHC), a city-wide partnership designed to improve health outcomes in 12 neighborhoods in New York City. Through the initiative, young public housing residents build and maintain farms on public housing properties across the city to serve fellow residents, with local partners. The Farms expand healthy food access, provide youth workforce and leadership development, and promote sustainable and connected public housing communities.
What happens with the produce grown on the farms?
Local NYCHA residents can take home produce from our Eco-Hubs when farm stands are open (typically weekly in June-November).
Free organic, locally-grown produce is distributed in exchange for:
- dropping off household compostable waste (fruit peels, egg shells, coffee grounds, other food scraps, etc.); OR
- 30 minutes of volunteer time; OR
- completing a brief resident survey sharing feedback.
GCF does not charge for produce from the farms.
For farm locations and Farm Stand times, visit the Farms at NYCHA page.
Who can join the Service Corps?
Eligible GCF Service Corps applicants meet ALL of the following requirements:
- New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) or affordable/low-income NYC housing resident
- Young adult 18 to 24 years old
- High school graduate or GED/equivalent holder
- You CANNOT have more than 60 college credits or be enrolled in college full-time
- U.S. citizen or legal resident status
Find more info on the Apply page.
How do I apply?
If you meet the eligibility requirements above and are interested in our program, click here to fill out an online application, and please call (347)-720-2823 or email recruitment@greencityforce.org to register for an upcoming Information Session.
When are the information sessions?
Information sessions are now offered twice weekly on Tuesdays at 2:00pm and Thursdays at 4:00pm virtually via Zoom. Potential candidates are encouraged to complete our application first to receive an info session link.
Are Americorps Members paid an hourly wage?
No. Americorps Volunteers receive a monthly stipend.
When was GCF founded and by who?
Green City Force was founded in 2009 by Lisbeth Shepherd, Lucian Cohen and Erika Symmonds. See our staff page for bios. See the about page for our organization history.
What is GCF’s graduation rate?
GCF’s all time graduation rate averages 80% or higher.
What is the Love Where You Live Youth Summit?
The Love Where You Live Youth Summit is a day of reflection and action where Americorps Members, Alumni, and community allies come together to co-ideate and make a collective commitment to building the green city we want to see through service.
What organizations does GCF partner with?
See our partner page.
Can I apply for a job at GCF?
Please visit our employment opportunities page for current openings.