This handbook provides AmeriCorps Promise Fellows with important information about their participation in this special initiative of AmeriCorps and America's Promise--The Alliance for Youth. Section 1 is an overview of AmeriCorps, including its mission, the mission of America's Promise--The Alliance for Youth, and the role of AmeriCorps Promise Fellows. Section 2 is a history of national service in America, leading up to the establishment of AmeriCorps in 1993. Section 3 discusses the Corporation for National Service, which administers AmeriCorps. Section 4 describes rights and responsibilities of AmeriCorps Promise Fellows; lists prohibited activities; provides information about education awards, such as loan postponement or forbearance and compelling personal circumstances; and provides information on living allowances, taxes, health care and child care, AmeriCorps training, and administrative procedures. Section 5 makes suggestions for how to make service a lifetime commitment. A glossary of AmeriCorps terms is provided. (YLB)