ECHOSTARS Overview
The 2021-2022 application is now open! Please see below for more information on the ECHOSTARS programs. APPLY HERE to access the application. Current students who are interested in volunteering can email the Office of Civic Engagement at civicengagement@frostburg.edu or call 301-687-4210.
Empowering Communities - Helping Others - Service Through Action, Resources, & Sustainability
The ECHOSTARS Service Program is a living, learning, and serving experience for students committed to making a change in their communities. As ECHOSTARS, students will become a part of a growing student service movement by providing service as youth mentors, companions, and more in Western Maryland.
Service
Members will serve 300 hours over the course of the school year which averages out to 10 hours per week. Hours can also be accumulated over winter and summer break for students who have difficulties completing their hours during the academic year.
Hours are divided between Direct hours and Training hours. Direct hours are when the ECHOSTARS are directly working on a project or with someone who needs their help. Up to 70 hours can be counted as Training hours pertaining to certain classes (must be pre-approved), cultural experiences, or educational events.
ECHOSTARS serve at their identified weekly service site a minimum of twice a week. Students typically serve Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday depending on their class schedule. Special Projects are offered throughout the week and on weekends to ensure students can complete their hours.
Financial Awards
Students in the program will be eligible to receive between $500 and $1,811 in scholarships based on the number of hours they complete. The Scholarships will be available at completion of their service year for future education expenses.
Special Note: If social distancing and/or other safety guidelines pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic prohibit members from completing 300 hours, requirements will be adjusted and members will earn a proportional amount of the scholarship funds.
Housing
As part of this living-learning-serving program, all ECHOSTARS will live together in Gray Hall along with their upper-class Team Leaders. Gray Hall is a centrally located residence hall that is close to most academic buildings, the Lane University Center, and the PAWS Pantry. Gray Hall even has its own parking lot!
Transportation
Transportation is provided to all service sites and Special Projects.
Qualifications
ECHOSTARS must be first-year students at Frostburg State University who are at least 17 years of age and will turn 18 before August 2022. To be eligible, students must be a United States citizen or permanent legal resident and must be able to pass a three-part state and FBI background check.
Rising STARS
As part of ASTAR, the Rising STARS program is a special opportunity for upperclassmen at Frostburg State University to develop strong leadership skills and promote civic engagement in the local community and on campus. Together this elite AmeriCorps unit serves as leaders to the FSU ECHOSTARS, mentors to area young people, and supporters of cancer research, food pantries, and community events for the whole family. Rising STARS are often recognized as the most engaged students on the Frostburg State University campus. The Rising STARS demonstrate an annual commitment of 300 hours to serve Allegany and Garrett Counties. In order to apply for the Rising STARS program, students must be a U.S. citizen with a heart for service, responsible FSU students in good academic standing, and a committed leader with effective communication skills.
