CULLMAN, Ala. – The Link of Cullman County will soon expand its efforts to combat food insecurity through a new partnership with AmeriCorps VISTA and the American Connection Corps (ACC). The Link will serve as a placement site for an ACC member for 2025-2026 — an opportunity that will support its growing community outreach and food distribution programs.
With more Cullman families facing food insecurity than ever before, the need for support has never been greater. In the last quarter alone, The Pantry at The Link — a neighbor’s choice pantry model — has served over 1,875 households.
“The Pantry at The Link is an incredible resource for our community,” said Cayla Grace Murphy-Carnes, marketing coordinator for The Link. “The way we operate really helps to restore a sense of dignity and autonomy in a situation where many people feel shame in needing help — either just for a month or two between jobs, or for our older neighbors on fixed income who will need this help long term.”
As The Pantry continues to serve a growing number of families in Cullman, the addition of an American Connection Corps member will further support and expand these efforts.
“We are very excited about the opportunity to have an American Connection Corps member join our team here at The Link!” said Jonathan Creekmore, supportive services manager at The Link. “This person would help us to further and more effectively reach out to local farmers and other food sources in our community to bring more food into our area and distribute it to needy families and other organizations in Cullman County and beyond. This member will also alleviate some of our volunteer demand as we move into the busiest time of the year here at The Link.”
Said Creekmore, “If you or someone you know would be interested in an amazing opportunity like this, I would love to work with you!”
The American Connection Corps places full-time members in rural communities across the country with the goal of strengthening economic development, expanding social networks and opening new career pathways. Open to individuals at all life stages, from recent graduates to retirees, the program offers hands-on experience and job training while making a real impact in the communities they serve.
Each full-time ACC member receives a $33,000 stipend, a $7,395 education award through AmeriCorps, access to childcare benefits, health care reimbursement (if applicable) and fully funded travel and training throughout the year. Members also qualify for student loan forbearance during their term of service.
To be eligible, an applicant must be a U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident and hold a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Additionally, applicants must be 17 years of age or older while not having served four or more AmeriCorps State/National terms.
For more information or to apply for the ACC position at The Link, visit https://apply.workable.com/lead-for-america/j/16E78B1B43 or contact Jonathan Creekmore at jonathancreekmore@linkingcullman.org.
