VISTA Program Areas
Economic Opportunity
VISTAs facilitate their community's access to knowledge concerning economic well being. They promote financial literacy, job skill training, and secure housing options. VISTAs may coordinate a small business training or develop a tax assistance program.
Education
Access to education and mentorship are crucial components of success. VISTAs working in this program area foster a love of learning, both inside and outside of the classroom. The work to increase literacy and empower learners of all ages. VISTAs may coordinate a mentoring program for girls, develop a GRE-preparedness class, or organize a summer program for youth.
Healthy Futures
Good nutrition and access to healthcare keep communities happy and healthy. Many VISTAs participate in programs that develop sustainable well-being practices for communities and special populations. They may organize a wellness fair for seniors, find resources and volunteers to dig a community garden, or start a program to help adults navigate their healthcare options.
Veterans and Military Families
Military deployment has a wide-reaching effect on communities: spouses, children, and returning service members must find ways to adapt to their new realities. Many VISTAs - some of whom are former military members themselves - support veterans and military families through programming and outreach. VISTAs working in this area may organize outreach efforts to homeless veterans or start a program for children of currently-deployed service members.
Interested in learning more about how you can participate? Vists http://www.nationalservice.gov/AmeriCorpsVISTA.