Serve Idaho, the Governor’s Commission on Service and Volunteerism, announced the approval of three organizations as AmeriCorps VISTA host sites: Anser Charter School (Garden City), Culture for Change (Twin Falls) and the YWCA (Lewiston).
Anser Charter School was approved to host one VISTA member who will be in charge of implementing the United Way of Treasure Valley’s Community School Model. They will conduct a community needs assessment and make any adjustments to the model according to student and family needs as well as improve relevant programming and partnerships.
Culture for Change was approved to host two VISTA members. One member will develop English language programming and curriculum based on improving workforce skills, such as sewing, making alterations and cooking. The other VISTA member will create a structured volunteer program to address student homework needs and a framework for a youth food pantry.
The YWCA was approved to host one VISTA member who will lead the development of trauma-informed financial literacy curriculum and will partner with experts in the field to provide training and identify funding sources.
AmeriCorps VISTA members in Idaho work with organizations to alleviate poverty while contributing to Serve Idaho’s goals of increasing economic opportunity, education and healthy futures in their communities. VISTA host sites are responsible for daily supervision, training and ensuring the member is supported and completes approved activities.
As the VISTA sponsor, Serve Idaho oversees the program and ensures compliance with all AmeriCorps and state policies, procedures and rules. Serve Idaho also provides ongoing orientation and training for site supervisors and VISTA members.
AmeriCorps VISTA members serve in a full-time capacity for 365 days and receive a stipend of $24,962, a health allowance and child care (if applicable). At the end of their service, they receive either a Segal Education Award of $7,395 or a service stipend of $1,800.
For organizations interested in hosting a VISTA AmeriCorps member, an opening is available. Learn more and apply at serve.idaho.gov/grantsfunding.
