What is Amercorps*VISTA?

AmeriCorps*VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) provides full-time members to nonprofit, faith-based and other community organizations, and public agencies to create and expand programs that ultimately bring low-income individuals and communities out of poverty.

AmeriCorps*VISTA members leverage human, financial, and material resources to increase the capacity of low-income communities across the country to solve their own problems.

When VISTA members complete their service, they leave behind lasting solutions to some of our country's toughest problems.

Since 1965, more than 140,000 Americans served through VISTA. Today, nearly 6,000 AmeriCorps*VISTA members serve throughout the country—working to fight illiteracy, improve health services, create businesses, increase housing opportunities, bridge the digital divide, and strengthen the capacity of community organizations.

What are the benefits of being an Americorps* VISTA member?

Members who complete their term of service can opt for either an Education Award of $4725 or an end of service stipend in the amount of $1200. Additional benefits include training, health care, relocation assistance, and student-loan forbearance or deferment.

How do I apply to become an AmeriCorps*VISTA member?

To apply, complete the AmeriCorps online application at https://recruit.cns.gov/applyform.asp.

How many AmeriCorps*VISTA member sites are there?

AmeriCorps*VISTAs serve in programs across the United States. Currently, the initiative managed through the Florida Literacy Coalition has 10 sites throughout Florida.

When do AmeriCorps*VISTA members serve?

AmeriCorps*VISTAs must attend pre-service orientation (PSO) before they begin their year of service. The year of service begins the day following the PSO.

When will AmeriCorps*VISTA members be interviewed and placed?

Interviews will take place as qualified candidates are identified. The organization to which the candidate has applied will contact him/her for a phone interview. Following the interview, chosen candidates will then be contacted regarding PSO/start dates.

Do candidates have a choice in where they are placed?

Candidates can choose during the application process which sites/areas of the state to which they would like to apply.

Is an AmeriCorps*VISTA opportunity considered employment or volunteerism?

VISTA = Volunteers in Service to America . Vistas are full-time volunteers, but are referred to as members. It is national service, a commitment to serve community and country.

How many hours per week does an AmeriCorps* VISTA work?

An AmeriCorps* VISTA position is a full-time, twelve-month commitment without regard for regular business hours. AmeriCorps* VISTA service is unique in that it involves a full immersion in the project and community. It is not a 9 to 5 job. Each host site may require different working hours. However, members generally serve between 35 and 40 hours per week.

May I have another job while I'm an AmeriCorps*VISTA?

AmeriCorps* VISTA members cannot or not allowed to have outside employment during their term of service.

May I go to school while I'm an AmeriCorps*VISTA?

Americorps*VISTA members can request approval to take one or two courses at any given time, providing that the course of studies is somehow related to the member’s service or to maintain eligibility for a partial federal Pell grant.

What is the living stipend for a VISTA?

The living stipend varies, depending on which county in Florida you serve in. The average in Florida is approximately $865.00 per month.

Do AmeriCorps*VISTA members receive any time off during the year of service?

At minimum, VISTA members are entitled to 10 personal and 10 sick days over the course of their year of service.

When and how are AmeriCorps*VISTA members paid?

VISTA members receive a portion of their living allowance every two weeks (not twice a month). It will be deposited directly into a bank account. During pre-service orientation (PSO), VISTA members complete a direct deposit form.

Do AmeriCorps*VISTA members pay taxes?

Federal taxes are withheld from the living allowance. State, local, and Social Security (FICA) taxes are not withheld. AmeriCorps* VISTA members are responsible for including their living allowance on their state and local tax returns.

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