Overview of AmeriCorps VISTA Nonprofit Agency Development
The following is an outline of an AmeriCorps VISTA program that I participated in years ago. AmeriCorps is a government volunteer program in which members serve with a year-long commitment to help develop a nonprofit agency or agencies. In return, they receive professional development training, a modest bi-weekly stipend, a student loan payment award or cash payout at the end of the term, and other benefits. To learn more about the “domestic peace corps”, you can go to the AmeriCorps government website. You can also see my free presentation outline of my work in the program.
AmeriCorps VISTA
Overview of Resource Development Programs
We are focusing on maintaining and improving our core youth leadership programs in South and West Dallas.
We have formed a collaboration with a local community center to bring their kids to our program in West Dallas
We have formed a potential collaboration with a local YMCA to bring their kids to our program in South Dallas
We have created a centralized website, for the volunteers to see and add information regarding the programs
We are providing snacks and drinks for the kids
Volunteers
We have recruited, trained, and are managing five new volunteers to help run and support our programs. They have been interviewed, screened, and attended an orientation. They are actively participating in our programs.
Parents Advisory Board
I have been meeting monthly with our Parents Advisory Board to discuss agency issues and developments. The Board members have given me their input, ideas, and suggestions.
Volunteer Materials
I have developed materials for the agency regarding volunteers:
Policy Manual
Job Description
Code of Ethics
Relationship and Fundraising Management
I have developed a contact management database to manage agency relationships. It may also be used as a donor tracking system.
Summary
As you can see, my position focused on capacity-building of the nonprofit organization. I was growing the youth leadership classes through collaborations, and developing the organization’s staff by recruiting and training volunteers. I also formed a Parents’ Advisory Board for input and ideas. AmeriCorps members’ contributions are helpful, because they provide assistance and expertise at a low cost to leverage the development of nonprofit agencies.