City Year reviews

high pressure environment, constant struggle for funding. if you are in a department where your leadership is stable, you'll be in good shape. however, if you are in a department where your leadership is less than effective or respected by the executive office, then things will be challenging. by they way, they love that word - "challenge". its an unspoken rule that no one is allowed to use the word "problem" there. they have a very strong organizational culture that can be overbearing sometimes. if you dont like doing a team break (like a sports team) after every meeting, then this isn't the place for you.

The majority of City Year's entry level positions are actually AmeriCorps positions, meaning that many employees (Corps Members) are not paid a salary, but a minimal living stipend. Corps Members (17- 24 year olds) work in urban schools and communities full time for ten months and earn a $4,725 educational award at the end of their service. Most salaried employees of City Year have completed atleast one year as a Corps Member (the maximum is two); few "external" salaried employees are hired. City Year has a unique and strong organizational culture, highlighted by uniforms (bright red jackets, khaki pants, Timberland boots); PT "physical training", a daily set of calisthenics (think boot camp, but much less intense); and Spirit Breaks (like the break after a football team's huddle, except with phrases like "Positive Encouragement") following every meeting.