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Home | Programs | AmeriCorps*VISTA | Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) |
Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) | |
AmeriCorps*VISTA is the national service program designed
specifically to eliminate poverty in America. Founded as Volunteers in
Service to America (VISTA) in 1965 and incorporated into the AmeriCorps
network of programs in 1993, VISTA has been a leader in this movement
for more than 40 years and has a proud legacy beginning with John F.
Kennedy which extends to the present day. VISTA Members orient all
their efforts towards the following mission:
To start, strengthen, or expand programs, systems or services
that help people move out of poverty.
Thirty-seven million Americans live in poverty. Through AmeriCorps
VISTA, you can make a tangible difference. And, you’ll find the
fulfillment that comes from using your knowledge and skills to help
those in disadvantaged circumstances turn their aspirations into
reality.
VISTA Members do not provide direct services, such as tutoring children
or building homes. Instead, they spend a year working full-time and
focus their efforts on building the organizational, administrative, and
financial capacity of organizations that fight illiteracy, improve
health services, foster economic development, and otherwise assist
low-income communities. VISTA Members develop programs to meet a need,
write grants, and recruit and train volunteers.
VISTA Members at Youth Service Califonia currently serve the Cesar E. Chavez Afterschool Service Clubs, which are located in Title I
Middle Schools across the state of California. The Service Clubs
engage students in high-quality service projects that build connections
to the school and community and instill life-long values of service in
the students. VISTA Members perform a vital role in initiating and
supporting this program that, ultimately, is working to remove the
barriers to success and self-fulfillment that exist in too many
communities in America. |
| Links and Related Resources
Corporation for National and Community Service
The National organization that is charged with coordinating all government service programs.
AmeriCorps Home Page
The national service program that incorporates and manages AmeriCorps*State and National, NCCC, and VISTA.
Peace Corps
International Service Opportunities
CaliforniaVolunteers
The California State organization that coordinates and state service programs.
Chavez Foundation
The organization dedicated to promoting the life and Legacy of Cesar E. Chavez.
AmeriCorps*VISTA
The twelve-month AmeriCorps position focused on fighting poverty.
VISTA Member Handbook
The on-line resource covering all the Terms, Conditions, and Benefits for VISTA service.
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