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VISTA:
Program Overview
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The AmeriCorps*VISTA Program
An Overview
The AmeriCorps*VISTA
program (Volunteers In Service To America) began in 1965 as
a "domestic Peace Corps"
with the intention of eliminating poverty in low-income communities
within the United States.
Members currently work in agencies across the nation
to fight illiteracy, improve health services,
create businesses, increase housing opportunities, and bridge
the digital divide. Prospective VISTAs follow an application
process and, upon acceptance, are placed in communities across
America to give one year of service to their participating organization.
Financial and Educational Benefits
A living stipend of $826 per month (this amount is for Lowell,
MA; rate varies depending on location)
Upon the completion of one year of service, a $4,725
education award that may be applied toward paying off existing
qualified student loans or the costs of future education. Instead
of the education award, VISTAs may elect to receive a $1,200 cash
stipend.
Enrollment in a basic health care plan
Training and support from supervisors, coworkers, and VISTA
staff members
Relocation expenses, if eligible
Childcare expenses, if eligible
Application Procedure
The easiest way to apply is online at recruit.cns.gov/index.asp.
Search for a program of interest from a variety of options, fill
out the online application, and submit it electronically to the
agency you wish to work for. You will then get an email confirming
the receipt of your application that contains your agency's contact
information.
If you're specifically interested in a VISTA
position with the Lowell Community Technology Consortium,
please contact Felicia Sullivan
of Lowell Telecommunications Corporation
at (978)458-5400 X 11.
For more information on VISTA and other AmeriCorps
programs, visit the web site at www.americorps.org.
For more information about becoming a volunteer
at LTC or any of the Consortium's community technology centers,
call Felicia Sullivan at (978)458-5400 X 11 or apply online at
www.lctc.org/go/vol/apply/index.shtml.
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