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Vista Volunteers
Committed to helping individuals and communities who are facing real challenges find real ways to thrive and prosper? Convinced of the power of grassroots leadership? Driven to go where the need is greatest? So are we! Sign up to become a Way Finders' AmeriCorp VISTA Volunteer.
A one-year opportunity that can make a lasting impact
Since 2012, Way Finders has sponsored NeighborWorks AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) members—and benefited greatly from their energy, insight, and dedication. During a one-year opportunity with us, AmeriCorps VISTA members get right to work—by creating or expanding upon a project that helps address issues faced by low-income communities.
As a part of the Way Finders Community Building & Engagement team, AmeriCorps VISTA members:
- Receive a living allowance and an educational award or a cash stipend
- Attend a national training institute
- Develop data management systems
- Assist with grant proposals
- Learn new skills
Qualifications
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Strong ability to multi-task and work independently or as part of a team
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite
- Preferred bi-lingual English/Spanish
How to apply
New VISTA positions open each year in early summer—sign up to receive an update when openings are posted!
As part of the Way Finders Community Building & Engagement team, AmeriCorps VISTAs receive a living allowance, and an educational award or cash stipend. VISTAs who work with us will attend a national training institute, develop data management systems, assist with grant proposals, and learn new skills.
We are so grateful to our AmeriCorps VISTA members, past and present!
Here’s a list of current AmeriCorps VISTA members and past members who have completed a year of service with us.
2020-2022: Victor Machado
2020-2022: Victor Machado
Victor Machado, a resident of Holyoke, reenlisted for a second term after completing one year of service with Way Finders. He is committed to recruiting Holyoke residents to lead community improvement projects—and to supporting others as they begin similar efforts in nearby neighborhoods. Victor helps residents find their role by identifying their skills, building their confidence, and encouraging them to make new connections. His vision? Engaged residents who lead the way toward a safer, better lit community—marked by less blight and illegal dumping and more new housing.
2021-2022: Joshua Wozniak
Joshua Wozniak of Suffield, Connecticut, is helping to train and mentor residents of Springfield to advocate for improvements to their city. These include measures to increase safety and make Springfield more walkable, bikeable, and climate friendly—all of which can help improve public health outcomes.