AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) is a national service program dedicated to ending poverty by building the capacity of nonprofit organizations and public agencies. VISTA’s mission is to strengthen and supplement efforts in low-income communities to eliminate and alleviate poverty by engaging volunteers from all walks of life, all geographical areas, and all age groups in a year of full-time service.
By joining Volunteer Corps at L.A. Works, you will be placed with one of our nonprofit partner organizations and tasked with a capacity-building project such as: creating sustainable systems to expand services, recruiting community members to volunteer in local programs, establishing a database of program alumni, and/or developing partnerships to bring new economic opportunities in LA county.
Service Activities
creating sustainable systems to expand services, recruiting community members to volunteer in local programs, establishing a database of program alumni, developing partnerships to bring new economic opportunities in LA county
Community Need Addressed
lower income areas in the Los Angeles area
Position Outcomes
increased volunteer capacity at host sites, increased number of economically disadvantaged individuals received professional development services, increased number of students with improved academics, increased number of individuals who report increased food security
Benefits
Childcare assistance if eligible, Education award upon successful completion of service, Health coverage, Living allowance, Non-competitive eligibility (federal jobs), Relocation allowance (if applicable), Stipend, Student loan forbearance
Competencies You Will Develop
Communication
Maintain open lines of communication with others, Speak clearly, in precise language and in a logical, organized and coherent manner
Creativity & Problem Solving
Able to identify and define the problem, Capable of generating possible solutions, Select and implement well-considered solution
Teamwork
Develop constructive working relationships and maintain them over time, Interact professionally and respectfully with supervisors and co-workers
Decisions
Identify and prioritize the key issues involved to facilitate the decision making process, Involve people appropriately in decisions that may impact them
Tools
Consistently choose the best tool or technological solution for the problem at hand, Operate tools and equipment in accordance with established operating procedures, safety standards, and ethical guidelines
Planning
Able to prioritize various competing tasks, Demonstrate the effective allocation of time and resources efficiently, Drive decision making
Service
Be pleasant, courteous, professional and respectful when dealing with internal and external customers or clients, Understand and anticipate the needs of others, Understand the importance of one's role in the functioning of the organization, Understand the significance of maintaining a healthful and safe environment