AmeriCorps Spotlight: Jamia Charles
We’re excited this month to highlight AmeriCorps Member Jamia Charles! Jamia Charles is a Community Servant, Community Builder, Youth Advocate, and apart of our Hands On Atlanta family.
Learn more about her journey and how she is shaping the future!
Introducing Jamia Charles the Community Servant, Community Builder, Youth Advocate
Why did you join AmeriCorps?
AmeriCorps literally fell into my lap. While going through my emails, I stumbled upon the program and became curious. I thought to myself, “Why not give my childhood aspiration a try?” That curiosity led me to apply, and it has allowed me to make a meaningful impact on students’ lives as well as the community. What started as a chance discovery has become a defining step in my professional career.
What did you like most about working with your students?
What I liked the most was seeing students grow academically and gain confidence over time. Being a part of their progress and watching them achieve their goals was very rewarding for both the scholar and me. I also valued building positive relationships with my students and creating a supportive learning environment where they felt encouraged to participate and succeed.
What did you gain from this experience?
Through this experience, I gained hands-on experience working with students, strengthened my communication skills, and developed a deep understanding of how to support diverse learning needs.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In five years, I see myself growing in a leadership role within a nonprofit organization where I can contribute to the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs that address community needs. I also see myself continuing to develop my skills in community outreach and strategic planning, allowing me to take on greater responsibility and contribute meaningfully to the organization’s mission and overall success.
When you’re not serving the community, what do you like to do for fun?
Outside of serving the community, I enjoy activities that help me recharge, such as running, reading, and spending time with people who are important to me. These activities help me maintain a healthy balance, stay disciplined, and continue learning.
“What I love about Atlanta is its rich history, abundance of opportunity, and vibrant diversity. The city’s story is one of resilience and reinvention, earning it the nickname “Phoenix City” after it rose from the challenges of the past to become a thriving hub of culture, business, and transportation. Today, that spirit of growth and determination continues to define Atlanta, making it a place of possibility for both personal and professional development. It’s a city like no other, and I am proud to call it home.”
Are you interested in learning more about a year of service through the Hands On Atlanta AmeriCorps program? Click here to see all the program benefits, what you’ll do and more!