AmeriCorps members graduating in May got the chance Thursday to meet and visit with people who could have an impact on their futures.

The 214-member group completes its period of service with a graduation ceremony May 2.

“‘Life After AmeriCorps’ is a program that allows the members learn about some of the different opportunities that are available to them after they graduate from the program,” Randy Alghawi, a support team leader, said.

A total of 18 organizations, including local and state government agencies, nonprofit and volunteer groups, branches of the military, Hinds Community College and Millsaps College participated in the daylong event.

Two sessions

Alghawi said the program was split into two parts, a series of breakout sessions and an opportunity fair, where the AmeriCorps members could pickup brochures and talk with representatives.

“In the breakout sessions, representatives describe their different organizations and give the members information about their programs and the opportunities in their field,” he said.

“The opportunity fair gives the members the chance to talk with representatives on an individual basis. The can ask questions and get more information and pick up literature.”

Maddie Grodahl of Frederick, Maryland, was one of the AmeriCorps members taking advantage of the opportunity fair to explore her options.

“I’m not sure what I want to do,” she said. “I may go in the military because I want to serve my country; that’s why I joined AmeriCorps.”

She appreciated the opportunity to meet talk directly to the representatives and ask questions about their organization, “And I have a lot of questions.”

Claritza Sanchez from Puerto Rico was in between booths at the fair.

“I had a great opportunity to participate in AmeriCorps, and this is a good opportunity for me to learn what is available for me when I leave.”

Zack Lloyd of Flint, Michigan, said the fair was a way for him to look at programs that would help him reach his goals and plan for his future.

“This is a cool experience,” he said.