During the year of service, the VISTA will enhance the capacity of the organization by aiding in the development of a program that increases food security in Aluetian communities along the Berring Sea. Many of these communities suffer from high levels of food insecurity, and getting food from Anchorage to the islands is a long and tedious process. This program will provide food to these communities, by developing community-based sustainable solutions.
Service Activities
During the year of service, the VISTA member will develop the greenhouse project and look into the feasibility of implementing these and other programs in Aluetian communities along the Bering straight. The member will also meet with community partners, and analyze current projects to ensure that the communities needs are being addressed.
Community Need Addressed
The Aluetian Pribilof Islands Association (APIA) is an organization that is dedicated to improving the lives of native Alaskans. Studies have shown that many native Alaskans face high rates of alcoholism, homelessness and suicide rates. Because of this, the APIA looks to reverse the trend by using culturally based interventions.
Position Outcomes
Develop greenhouses in rural Alaskan communities and develop food sustainable solutions that can be adopted in Aluetian communities along the Bearing Sea
Benefits
Childcare assistance if eligible, College Credit, Education award upon successful completion of service, Health coverage, Living allowance, Non-competitive eligibility (federal jobs), Relocation allowance (if applicable), Stipend, Student loan forbearance, Training
RurAL CAP also offers affordable housing in the Anchorage area as well as bus passes.
Education Benefits
College Degree
Skills you will gain
public speaking, word , excel, research
Competencies You Will Develop
Communication
Demonstrate sensitivity and empathy, Lead group discussion, Listen to and consider others' viewpoints, Maintain open lines of communication with others, Speak clearly, in precise language and in a logical, organized and coherent manner, Turn taking, Write cleary and effectively
Creativity & Problem Solving
Able to identify and define the problem, Capable of generating possible solutions, Communicate the problem to appropriate personnel, Improvise, Provide relevant expertise, Select and implement well-considered solution
Teamwork
Derive consensus, Develop constructive working relationships and maintain them over time, Establish a high degree of trust and credibility with others, Interact professionally and respectfully with supervisors and co-workers, Stay positive and outcome oriented, Use appropriate strategies and solutions for dealing with conflicts and differences to maintain a smooth workflow
Decisions
Accepts responsibility, Anticipate the consequences of decisions, Identify and prioritize the key issues involved to facilitate the decision making process, Involve people appropriately in decisions that may impact them, Quickly respond with a back-up plan if a decision goes amiss
Tools
Carefully consider which tools or technological solutions are appropriate for a given job, Consistently choose the best tool or technological solution for the problem at hand, Seek opportunities to improve knowledge of tools and technologies that may assist in streamlining work and improving productivity
Planning
Able to prioritize various competing tasks, Create environment of contribution, Create plan of action, schedule tasks so that work is completed on time, Demonstrate the effective allocation of time and resources efficiently, Drive decision making, Effectively delegate tasks, Facilitate group planning, Set goals
Service
Be pleasant, courteous, professional and respectful when dealing with internal and external customers or clients, Evaluate customer or client satisfaction, Honor the privilege of being able to work with and for those being served, Provide personalized, prompt, and efficient service to meet the requirements, requests and needs of customers, Recognize the importance of maintaining privacy and confidentiality of those being served, 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