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VISTA position available at center
MONTEREY - AmeriCorps Volunteers in Service to America is a federal program that recruits individuals to provide a full year of community service to non-profit organizations, and The Highland Center, which often uses these volunteers, offers another spot for those interested int he program.
A VISTA member is expected to work 35-40 hours a week and cannot hold an outside job. AmeriCorps offers a modest living allowance and health insurance. At the end of a year's service, the volunteer can choose between a $1,200 cash stipend and a $4,750 education voucher, good for paying expenses for higher education and educational training, or for repaying qualified student loans.
The job is focused on capacity building rather than direct service, like recruiting teachers, raising money and publicizing for an exercise class rather than running the class. Such positions are particularly suited for a recent high school or college graduate who is interested in gaining varied responsibilities in a professional setting, or an early retiree looking to give back to the community.
Alleghany Mountain Radio operates an AmeriCorps VISTA program in Bath, Highland and Pocahontas counties. The Highland Center has participated in the program since 2001, with six VISTA members helping with community outreach, marketing and resource development.
The Highland Center has an opening for an AmeriCorps VISTA position, says executive director Betty Mitchell. The person selected will work with the staff and board to increase community involvement by doing publicity work, recruiting volunteers, and assisting with fund-raising. Specific duties will depend on the individual's interests and skills. It is an excellent opportunity to get experience in the non-profit sector, says Mitchell.
For more information on VISTA and local volunteer opportunities, call The Highland Center at (540) 468-1922 or visit the AmeriCorps web site at www.americorps.gov.
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