Job Opportunities

Current Issue - March 2008

Digest Homepage

Below you will find a listing of employment opportunities related to civic engagement.

North Carolina Opportunities:

• Assistant Director for Community Service, Appalachian State University
• Assistant/Associate Director for Service-Learning, UNC-Greensboro
• Field Coordinator, Mars Hill College
• Editor, Online Journal, NC Campus Compact

National Opportunities:

• Student Involvement/Service Learning Director, College of Charleston
• Community Service Coordinator, Georgia Tech

• Executive Director, Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE)
• Director, Center for Art and Public Life, California College of the Arts, Oakland campus
• Director, Upward Bound, Cornell University
• Director of Programs, Leaderspring, Oakland, CA
• Director of Service-Learning, Loyola University New Orleans
• Community Service Coordinator, Sonoma State University
• Director, The Hilda & Wilbur Glenn Institute for Philanthropy and Service Learning, Atlanta, GA

AmeriCorps VISTA Positions:

• VISTA Positions, Illinois Campus Compact
• VISTA Positions, Pennsylvania Campus Compact
• VISTA Leader, Pennsylvania Campus Compact
• VISTA Positions, Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
• VISTA Community Engagement & Partnership Coordinators, Massachusetts Campus Compact
• VISTA Leader, Washington Campus Compact
• VISTA Member, South Dakota State University
• VISTA Members, University of South Dakota

North Carolina Opportunities:

Assistant Director for Community Service, Appalachian & the Community Together (ACT)
Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University is seeking a dynamic, creative, energetic, organized professional to join a great team in working with a group of committed, intelligent and talented student leaders to plan, advertise and produce community service programs at one of the nation’s premier comprehensive universities.  The position reports to the Associate Director of Student Programs & Community Service and affords the unique opportunity of working with caring, experienced professionals in a team approach to meet local community needs through community service & service-learning.  ACT has a 20 year history of meeting local community needs by engaging students in the community.   The successful candidate will have shared responsibility of the ACT Community Outreach Center, a student run walk-in center, and will oversee the Alternative Spring Break program, one of the largest of such programs in the country.  ACT has a solid reputation regionally for developing outstanding student leaders, a thriving service-learning program, and maintaining positive & healthy relationships with our local Community Partners. ACT is well networked throughout the state of North Carolina through North Carolina Campus Compact, in addition to various national networks.

The position description is available at this link and more information about the Department of Student Programs, ACT, and Appalachian State University is available at www.studentprograms.appstate.edu and www.act.appstate.edu. 

Qualifications:  Prefer 3 years full-time experience in working in a higher education setting or social service field.   2 or more years working with student leaders in a community service and/or service-learning program also preferred.  Masters Degree in College Student Development or related field required.

Compensation:  Annual salary $40,000; plus North Carolina State benefits.

To apply:  Send current resume, letter of application and names, phone numbers, and email addresses of 3 references who know you well, to:

David Robertson, Director

Department of Student Programs

231 Plemmons Student Union

Appalachian State University

Boone, NC  28608

robertsndl@appstate.edu

Deadline to apply:  Review of applications will begin on April 3, 2008, and will continue until the position is filled. Starting date for this position is July 1, 2008.

Assistant/Associate Director for Service-Learning
University of North Carolina at Greensboro

The Assistant/Associate Director for Service-Learning provides leadership in the development and implementation of service-learning/community-based opportunities, services, advocacy, and research.  Responsibilities include providing overall administrative support for service-learning and integrating community service opportunities with the academic mission of UNCG; facilitating faculty development workshops; seeking external funding to support creative endeavors; developing student leadership in service-learning initiatives; coordinating risk management and evaluation activities related to service-learning; furthering institutionalization of processes and infrastructure for civic engagement and community-based learning at UNCG and the Piedmont Triad. 

Masters required, Ph.D. preferred.  Three years of experience required in higher education, higher education administration, community-based learning, community agency administration, student leadership development, or related field. Knowledge and experience required of service-learning in higher education.  Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain relationships with community agencies, students, and faculty.  Respect for and ability to work with diverse populations. Proven oral, written, and project management skills. Ability to choose priorities among competing demands. Basic proficiency with desktop computing and use of the Web for information gathering and program administration are essential. Availability to work some evening and weekend hours.

Salary mid-$40,000s.  Expected start on or before July 1, 2008.  Nominations are encouraged.  Confidential review of applications will begin immediately with preference given to applications received by March 7, 2008, and continue until an appointment is made. Campus interviews for top candidates are anticipated late March, 2008.

Click here for the complete description

Send letter of interest, resume, and name, address, and contact information for three references electronically in MSWord format to Martha Wagner at mmwagner@uncg.edu.  Hard copies may be sent to Ms. Martha Wagner, Office of Student Affairs, P. O. Box 26170, Greensboro, NC  27402-6170.

Field Coordinator
Mars Hill College

Mars Hill College is searching for a qualified person to fill the opening for a Field Coordinator in LifeWorks. The Field Coordinator would be a member of a five person staff that promotes service-learning, internships, career development, and civic engagement across the disciplines. For more information on the position and the application process, go to http://www.mhc.edu/administration/hr/read.asp?newsID=166 on the college’s web site.

Editor, Online Journal

Partnerships: A Journal of Service Learning and Civic Engagement, a new, peer-reviewed on-line journal published by the North Carolina Campus Compact, seeks an editor beginning April 1, 2008. Partnerships: A Journal of Service Learning and Civic Engagement will publish a dynamic collection of research, pragmatic studies, interviews and reviews in an on-line forum that brings together scholars, students and community leaders in the fields of service-learning and civic engagement.  Please click here for the complete description.

National Opportunities

Student Involvement/Service Learning Director
College of Charleston                                   

Brief Description of Duties:  Explores and establishes long-term community partnerships that offer volunteer and service learning opportunities for students.  Works directly with faculty to establish programs and opportunities for out-of-class curriculum enhancement and in-class reflective sessions.  Maintains regular and ongoing contact with students, student clubs and organizations, faculty, and community partners to facilitate the effective matching of needs and resources.  Supervises Community Service Coordinator. Collaborates with Community Service Coordinator to implement co-curricular service vehicles (Martin Luther King Day, Alternative Spring Break, Move Out, Help Out, etc.) and in the development and implementation of new initiatives that build civic involvement.  Develops and implements promotional campaign to insure awareness/understanding of all components of service learning, to motivate and educate faculty in service learning pedagogy and highlight the benefits of service-learning for the institution and community.  Collaborates with the First-Year Experience Director and Committee and other academic affairs-based initiatives concerning service-learning.  Develops alternative sanction or intervention efforts for Honor Code/Code of Conduct infractions.  Serves as College of Charleston representative to South Carolina Campus Compact Advisory Council.  Serves as Americorps VISTA site supervisor.  Develops external sources of funding (research and write grants, collaborate with Institutional Advancement regarding donations).  Interfaces with appropriate departments/personnel to produce data information, website development and data reporting for assessment purposes.  Produces an annual service review for publication and historical data tracking.  Manages administrative functions including budgets, personnel, and reports for the Office of Service-Learning.  Assists the Dean of Students as assigned.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements:  Master's degree in student personnel services, social work or related area with five years experience in higher education.  Candidates with an equivalent combination of experience and/or education are encouraged to apply.  Knowledge of the intricacies of a campus community, non-profits, information systems and management experience.  Must possess excellent written and oral communication skills.   Ability to direct start-up and continued assessment of a multi-faceted operation. Must have a valid SC Driver's License.

NOTE:  Local travel, some overnight travel, and ability to drive a van necessary. 

Starting Salary Range:  $35,064 - $42,718 * *Commensurate with education/experience which exceeds the minimum requirements.            

Applications may be picked up and dropped off at the College of Charleston Office of Human Resources, between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily Monday through Friday or apply on line www.cofc.edu/hr/.  Applications for this position will be accepted until April 18, 2008  at 1:00 p.m.

Community Service Coordinator
Georgia Institute of Technology
 
The mission of the Office of Community Service at Georgia Tech is to promote civic responsibility and service-learning by encouraging student involvement in meaningful and reciprocal service with the community. 
 
The Community Service Coordinator provides direction, leadership, budget management and supervision for the Community Service office and advising for all student community service related efforts.  Serves as campus agent for student volunteerism and community outreach programs as it relates to student leadership development.  Supports service-learning partnerships in the academic curriculum and coordinates with community agencies for the integration of service opportunities for GT students.  Directly advises MOVE (Mobilizing Opportunities for Volunteer Efforts), ESWB (Engineering Students without Borders), ABLE (Alternative Breaks Learning Experiences), Agape, Relay for Life and the Community Service Council.  The Community Service Coordinator reports to the Assistant Dean/Director of Student Involvement and contributes to the mission of encouraging involvement, promoting leadership development and making meaning out of those leadership experiences through service-learning and organizational performance management.
 
Position responsibilities include:
 
· Supervising the Office of Community Service student staff and managing the administrative functions of the office.
· Advising the MOVE student organization; including the 6 executive officers and 11 committee chairpersons, ESWB, Agape, ABLE, Relay for Life and the Community         Service Council.
· Providing leadership development opportunities for community service student leaders and participants.
· Supervising a full time grant-funded Jumpstart Coordinator and a graduate assistant.
· Serving as one of the Georgia Tech’s liaisons to area non-profit organizations.
· Remaining abreast of safety and liability issues related to community services programming, and ascertaining that campus policies are enforced.
· Participating in the recruitment, selection, and formal leadership training of student leaders, including assisting in planning retreats and workshops, and conducting sessions.
· Providing support to faculty and staff members that are interested in incorporating service into a course (service-learning) or co-curricular program.
· Writing grant/giving proposals for community service and service learning programs, and managing grants, gifts, and corporate sponsorships.
· Developing, marketing and publicizing community service/service-learning projects and programs.
 
Qualifications: Master’s degree in Student Development, Higher Education, or a related field is required.  Minimum of 2 years experience developing service-learning programs or community service related activities, advising student organizations, advanced written and verbal communication skills, commitment to student empowerment, strong organizational skills, and the ability to handle multiple projects. Must be willing to work some nights and weekends.
 
Timeline and Application Process: Applications should include a detailed resume and cover letter, and names, addresses, and telephone numbers of three professional references and 1 student reference. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Please send applications to: Danielle McDonald (danielle.mcdonald@vpss.gatech.edu), Assistant Dean/Director of Student Involvement, Georgia Institute of Technology, 350 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30332-0285. Applicants must also apply on the Office of Human Resources website at: https://ea.ohr.gatech.edu/ click on “Apply” to complete the process.
 
Salary will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. Competitive benefits package from the University System of Georgia

Executive Director
Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE)

Responsible for the leadership and management of a rapidly growing, North American higher education association, including day-to-day operations, fundraising, communications, and programs. The Executive Director will report to the Board of Directors of AASHE, and will work with six full time staff plus student interns. The office is currently located in Lexington, KY with additional staff in Portland, Oregon, Berkeley, CA and Durham, NC.

Desired Qualifications

• Visionary leader who can inspire university communities to excellence in sustainability Knowledge of current trends in sustainability Previous leadership role in a growing, multi-dimensional nonprofit organization. Experience working with and reporting to a Board of Directors Ability to oversee and manage all aspects of a nonprofit organization. Management experience, preferably in education, organizational development, sustainability, public health, and/or social justice. Proven track record in fundraising and membership recruitment. Demonstrated experience in finance and budgeting Experience in developing strong, effective education and training programs. Working knowledge of the dynamics of higher education institutions. Excellent written communication skills and facility in use of the internet. Ability to work with staff, volunteers, and board members in offsite locations. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build collaborative and collegial relationships among staff, board and council, and external partners.
• Advanced degree or equivalent experience.

We welcome and invite nominations and applications. All inquiries will be kept confidential. All nominees will be invited to apply.  Applicants should submit a Letter of Interest (1-2 pages) including salary requirements and a Resume (1-2 pages) including complete employment history and three references.  The letter should include three specific reasons that the individual is qualified for the position. Email both as Word attachments to:  Chair, ED Search Committee, to a confidential e-mail account at aashesearch@plu.edu. Nominations and applications will be acknowledged promptly. Review of applications begins in mid-March and will continue until the new executive director is selected. Starting date and salary is negotiable.

Director, Center for Art and Public Life
California College of the Arts, Oakland Campus

   
The Director of the Center for Art and Public Life plays a vital leadership role in creating, implementing, and evaluating program activities at the Center. The Director ensures that the Center’s resources are used to create the greatest educational benefit for CCA students, as well as the greatest benefit of service to the community. The Director is responsible for general leadership and administration of the Center, including providing program vision and direction; maintaining and managing multiple community partnerships in the San Francisco Bay Area; raising funds in cooperation with other college offices; and working closely with faculty on curricular issues. The Director is responsible for research projects, publications, public programs, student involvement, and faculty support services.
 
Click here to download the complete job description.

 
Application Instructions:
Applicants are invited to submit a letter of interest, resume and the names and telephone numbers of three professional references to:

California College of the Arts
Human Resources (Job #  )
5212 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94618-1487
fax 510.594.3681
employment@cca.edu

 
Screening begins immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Director, Upward Bound

Cornell University

Upward Bound provides opportunities for participants to succeed in pre-college performance and ultimately in higher education pursuits. Upward Bound primarily serves high school students from low-income families in which neither parent holds a Bachelor's degree.

The Director provides leadership, supervision, direction and coordination for all aspects of the Upward Bound program. This includes preparing and maintaining all grant proposals, reports and required records, conducting required evaluation, managing budgets, supervising the Assistant Director and summer teaching staff, oversight and participation in the selection and recruitment of 50 Upward Bound high school participants and maintaining communication with schools, community partners, and university offices and collaborating units.  The Director is responsible for oversight of curriculum development and needs assessment, counseling participants and parents/guardians, providing training for instructors and leading workshops. No vacation allowed during the 6-week summer residential component of the Upward Bound program.  Position requires evening and weekend availability throughout the year.

The successful candidate will be dedicated to the successful development, implementation and sustainability of the newly awarded Cornell University Upward Bound Program.  The goal of Upward Bound is to increase the rates at which participants enroll in and graduate from institutions of post-secondary education.

The position reports dually to the University Associate Provost for Outreach and the Executive Director of the Cornell Public Service Center where the program will be housed.  This is a 12-month, full-time, four-year term appointment with possible renewal.

Qualifications:  Candidate must have a Bachelor's degree with 3-5 years full-time experience or equivalent combination and successful experience in program development and management, ideally serving low-income and diverse populations.  Experience with curriculum development, instructional and tutorial experience, budget development and management.  Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Proficiency with Word and Excel (database management packages, communication software, desktop publishing, etc.).  Reliable transportation and valid NYS Drivers license and ability to work evenings and weekends. Comfortable working in a fast-paced and busy office. Prior experience in a federal TRIO or related program desirable. No relocation assistance is provided for this position. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

For complete details and to apply on-line, please go to: http://www.ohr.cornell.edu/jobs/ and select "Staff (non-academic) and Library Positions" for the Director of Upward Bound job  #08289.

Director of Programs
LeaderSpring, Oakland, CA

LeaderSpring provides a two-year, on-the-job leadership training program for nonprofit executive directors in the San Francisco Bay Area.  The Director of Programs is an incredible opportunity to work closely with our dynamic and talented nonprofit executive directors.  The Director of Programs will play a key role in shaping and implementing LeaderSpring’s new strategic growth plan.  Our ideal candidate will be passionate about leadership development, and/or capacity building in the nonprofit sector.  She/he must have exceptional facilitation skills; experience as an executive director (or experience in key aspects of an ED’s job such as fund development and board governance); understanding of leadership theory and leadership development, or solid experience in organizational capacity building.   Some of the types of people we are thinking about for this position are:   A capable, confident trainer/facilitator of motivated and diverse adult high level leaders;  A former executive director who wants the satisfaction of supporting other nonprofit leaders without responsibility to oversee an entire organization; or A consultant who is interested in having a stabilized long-term assignment and being a member of a high performing team.    

The full job announcement and description for the position is available at www.leaderspring.org.  Candidates are encouraged to apply by March 31, 2008.  If you have any questions, feel free to contact me or Karen Anselmo, Program and Operations Manager, at (510) 286-8949.   Cynthia Chavez Executive Director LeaderSpring 1212 Preservation Park Way, Suite 300 Oakland, CA 94612   Phone (510) 286-8949 Fax (510) 286-8946

Director of Service Learning
Loyola University New Orleans

The Director of The Office of Service Learning will be responsible for the development and institutionalization of an academically-based service learning and research program at Loyola University New Orleans that is designed to enhance student learning while meeting the needs of the community.  This includes overall operation of the Office of Service Learning, including all elements of program planning, implementation, and evaluation as well as the supervision and training of all Office staff and volunteers.  The Director will also assume budgetary responsibility and be charged with developing and implementing short- and long-range public relations and resource development plans (including grant writing and other funding strategies) for the Office.  The Director will interact on behalf of the Office with all appropriate university and community personnel, committees, and organizations.

Qualifications: Masters Degree required, Ph.D. preferred, in Sociology, Education, Psychology or related field.  Some directly related experience may be substituted for educational requirement; Evidence of strong resource development skills (including grant writing), rich community-based experience, and active involvement in public service (e.g., collaborative planning, volunteer training, personnel management). Experience working in a university setting preferred; Experience in data collection, data analysis, and evaluation; Proficiency in Microsoft Word and various data management programs such as Excel, SPSS, and Access; Ability to work flexible schedule which may include evening and weekend work.

Candidates for the Director of Service Learning position will be reviewed and selected by a search committee. Loyola University New Orleans is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.  Applicants are encouraged to apply before March 31, 2008.

Community Service Coordinator 
Associated Students Inc. at SSU

The position description and application procedures are available here:  http://www.sonoma.edu/hs/jobs/as006.html.  

Director, The Hilda & Wilbur Glenn Institute for Philanthropy and Service Learning
The Westminster Schools, Atlanta, GA

The Glenn Institute seeks to enable and inspire students, parents, faculty, alumni, and other members of the Westminster Schools community to develop a sense of reciprocity and make genuinely meaningful contributions to society through gifts, service, and citizenship. The Glenn Institute initiative is meant to elevate service learning and the duty of citizenship to the level of visibility enjoyed on Westminster’s campus by academics, athletics, the fine arts, and the performing arts. It also seeks to have a broader impact by sharing its programs and experiences with leaders in K-12 education across the country.

The new Director, reporting to the President of The Westminster Schools and working with the Glenn Institute’s Advisory Board, will promote philanthropic education as an important opportunity and resource for all school constituencies. This will include coordinating philanthropic educational efforts on campus, developing new curriculum and programming for all Westminster audiences, and overseeing on-campus grant making programs for students and faculty.

Click this link to download the complete job description.  Further information on The Glenn Institute and The Westminster Schools is available on the school’s website: www.westminster.net.

VISTA Positions:

VISTA Positions
Illinois Campus Compact (ILCC)

Illinois Campus Compact (ILCC) is a coalition of 40 member campuses that bond together to actively engage presidents, faculty, staff and students to promote a renewed vision of higher education - one that supports not only the civic development of students, but the campus as an active and engaged member of its community."

In short, ILCC motivates students, faculty, staff, and university presidents to actively get involved on campus and in the community.  ILCC's wealth of resources aids in allowing college campuses to be seen as change agents where students and others grow and learn how each person makes a difference and can make a difference in the world.

NOTE:  Specific job description varies per campus, as each college or university may have a different work plan and description of what they would like the VISTA to do.  The ILCC office is in Chicago, IL, however actual VISTA placements will be located at any of the 40 ILCC member campuses in Illinois.  A general idea of what your position may entail includes:

--Building and expanding campus-community partnerships through networking with outside organizations
--Assisting faculty in developing service-learning courses and curricula by partnering them with nonprofit organizations and developing reflection materials to be used
--Creating programs to utilize the resources on campus to improve the lives of citizens in poverty in the community
--Working with student groups to further their cause and increase their impact on campus and in the community
--Being able to be creative and work on, or start, a project in an area in which you are interested

Benefits

-$4,725 education award 0R $1,200 cash stipend

-Bi-weekly stipend

-Health Coverage

-Loan Forbearance

-Interest accrual payment

-One-year of noncompetitive eligibility for a federal job

For more information, and to apply, contact:

Ericc Powell

AmeriCorps*VISTA Leader

Illinois Campus Compact

(312) 362-7693

epowell5@depaul.edu

AIM:  ILCCVISTA

VISTA Positions
Pennsylvania Campus Compact (PACC)

Pennsylvania Campus Compact (PACC) is pleased to announce its search for 28 full-time VISTA members to service in placements at higher education institutions throughout Pennsylvania. PACC*VISTA members serve directly at host campuses across Pennsylvania to support programming in the areas of children & youth, education, health, environment, community outreach, food security & nutrition, and other poverty-related issues. PACC*VISTA members act as volunteer recruiters, trainers, and special projects consultants, increasing the capacity of both the community and the campus to identify and address pressing community needs.

Benefits of the VISTA Program include:         

• AmeriCorps*VISTA Member Living Allowance
• $4,725 Education Award or $1,200 stipend upon completion of term of service
• Health coverage
• Federal loan forbearance

Term of Service: 

PACC*VISTA Members serve from August 2, 2008-August 1, 2009, with a mandatory Pre-Service Orientation from July 28th-August 1st.

Application Procedure: 

For more information about the PACC*VISTA program, contact Meghan Oakley, VISTA Project Manager, at moakley@paccompact.org. To apply for a specific position, contact the appropriate host campus supervisor—information included below.

AmeriCorps*VISTA Leader Position

Pennsylvania Campus Compact (PACC) 

Pennsylvania Campus Compact (PACC) is pleased to announce its search for an AmeriCorps*VISTA Leader to manage and support 28 full-time VISTA placements at higher educational institutions throughout Pennsylvania. The PACC*VISTA Leader will serve in the PACC office in Grantham, PA.

Specific Responsibilities Include

• Support all aspects of the 28 site statewide program management:
• Act as a liaison between VISTA members and PACC staff
• Collaboratively develop and implement comprehensive training and reflection program for VISTA members, including coordinating logistics for pre-service orientation, mid-year retreats, and end of service trainings;
• Support VISTA host campuses through regular site visits and regional meetings in coordination with the Project Manager.
• Create a support network among PACC*VISTA members:
• Promote information sharing and resource building among AmeriCorps*VISTA members and projects;
• Organize and implement monthly “check-in” and subject-based conference calls with VISTA members;
• Maintain “PACC Access” page for VISTA members with up-to-date resource, training and networking information;
• Act as an ombudsperson, resolving problems and representing issues on behalf of AmeriCorps*VISTA members;
• Initiate communication with and between VISTAs;
• Develop first bi-annual PACC*VISTA newsletter;
• Initiate, gather, and organize data for PACC*VISTA alumni network.
• Assist in managing the PACC*VISTA recruitment process:
• Develop recruitment strategies for PACC*VISTA program;
• Co-train PACC*VISTA supervisors in recruitment
• Develop brochures, flyers, and web-based recruitment tools to assist VISTA recruitment;
• Become familiar with MyAmeriCorps/eGrants online recruitment system, and provide technical assistance to candidates and supervisors when necessary;
• Collaborate with VISTA Leaders from other Campus Compact states on national recruitment strategies.
• Gather, organize, and analyze data for 28 site program:
• Submit quarterly reports to the federal funding agent;
• Collect information, maintain and update PACC*VISTA contact information, host site information, and VISTA profiles;
• Monitor announcements, directions to events, urgent messages, funding alerts, and news updates.

Benefits

• AmeriCorps*VISTA Leader Living Allowance of $12,396 per year
• $4,725 Education Award or $2,400 stipend upon completion of term of service
• Health coverage
• Federal loan forbearance

Application Procedure

To apply, please send cover letter and resume to Meghan Oakley, VISTA Project Manager, at moakley@paccompact.org. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until April 21st, 2008.  VISTA Leader service begins on July 15, 2008 and ends July 14, 2009.

AmeriCorps*VISTA Positions
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction

Help close the achievement gap in low-income schools across Wisconsin by forming partnerships between schools, families, and local communities. The Wisconsin DPI seeks to close the achievement gap and to help all children succeed in our schools by involving parents and the community at large in the educational process. One way the DPI is going about this is through our VISTA program. Our VISTAs facilitate and enhance school partnerships with their communities by developing and implementing effective partnership practices.

This isn't really a cookie-cutter program, so what you will actually doing looks different at every site, but some examples of the work you could do as a VISTA follow:

* Help develop staff and parent development workshops.

* Help establish an effective and comprehensive communication system for the school community.

* Help families understand school structure and to feel welcome in the school.

* Coordinate the recruitment and training of tutors and/or mentors.

* Help in offering learning activities and events for the whole family.

* Include parents and other community members in facilitating children's learning outside of school activities.

* Recruit families and other community members to volunteer in school events, after school, and tutoring programs.

* Encourage parents to participate in school activities, including attending school board and site council meetings.

* Involve local service groups in the school.

* Promote school partnership efforts through various media, such as local newspapers, radio stations, or community bulletin boards.

* Write grant proposals to support partnership activities.

* Start an after-school program.

Program Benefits:

Monthly living stipend of $833-865 per month
Childcare assistance (if eligible) of $400 per month
Relocation allowance
Health coverage
Training and conference opportunities monthly
Option of Education Award of $4,725 or Cash Stipend of $1,200 at the end of service
10 personal days and 10 sick days
Option for life insurance

Apply now through the My AmeriCorps portal:
https://my.americorps.gov/mp/login.do 

FIND our program with the following search criteria:
Program Type: VISTA
Program State: Wisconsin
Program Name: WI DPI

All positions start August 11, 2008. Full year commitment is expected. VISTAs cannot be enrolled in school or hold another job while they are serving.

For more information/questions contact-

Betsy Prueter, VISTA Leader
WI Department of Public Instruction
betsy.prueter@dpi.wi.gov
608-267-7290

AmeriCorps*VISTA
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology)  

Students, particularly those in areas of high poverty and minority enrollments, are not taking challenging school courses in math and science. Many never complete high school. FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a national, non-profit organization that uses age-appropriate robotics activities and competitions to excite students about science, math, and technology, with a long-term goal of encouraging them to pursue careers in those fields.

FIRST offers the Robotics Competition and the FIRST Technical Challenge for high school students, LEGO League for middle school students, and Junior Lego League for younger students. FIRST uses thousands of professional mentors and other volunteers to help young people to understand what working in scientific careers entails. For each FIRST program, students are required to design and build a robot to compete in a non-aggressive competition that focuses on team collaboration and cooperation. FIRST particularly targets disadvantaged, female, and minority students.

VISTA volunteers will: 1) assist in recruitment of teams, mentors, and volunteers, with emphasis on low-income and minority students and volunteers, 2) raise funds for teams, especially those in low-income areas, and for regional competitions, 3) assist in organizing regional competitions for all FIRST programs, 4) support/recruit/train FIRST volunteers, and 5) secure on-going participation of teams, particularly those in disadvantaged circumstances.

Member Duties: Activities include development of a list of possible sponsors and other funding sources and a plan for meeting with potential sponsors; presentation and promotion of FIRST to potential sponsors; communication with teams to determine needs; regular meetings with the Regional Director and assistance for planning activities (does NOT include regular administrative support but may require some administrative work); presentation and promotion of FIRST to community groups (Kiwanis, Lions, Rotary Clubs, youth groups, PTA's, economic and workforce development boards); in collaboration with the RD, promotion of FIRST to legislative, academic, and public groups, community-based organizations, legislative education committees, and governor's offices; recruitment of professional mentors and students to teams through various media such as corporate intranets, school papers and publications, posters, newspapers, and TV/radio interviews.
 

* * Positions available in: CONNECTICUT; CONNECTICUT; DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA;  DELAWARE;  MASSACHUSETTS;  MARYLAND;  MAINE;  NEW HAMPSHIRE;  NEW JERSEY;  NEW YORK;  PENNSYLVANIA;  RHODE ISLAND;  and VERMONT.

To apply, applicants should visit www.americorps.org and search for FIRST. Interested applicants can also view the listing at this link.          

AmeriCorps*VISTA Community Engagement & Partnership Coordinators

Massachusetts Campus Compact

Positions available across Massachusetts Term of Service: July 20, 2008 - July 2009

The MACC AmeriCorps*VISTA program was created to pursue the potential for institutions of higher education to more responsibly address the local needs of low-income communities and be responsible mechanisms for

community change.   MACC AmeriCorps*VISTA members are tools for this

change.

Through 33 unique campus-based placements, AmeriCorps*VISTA members will:

•             bridge the gap between campuses and communities

•             break down barriers to access and success in higher education

•             develop students as engaged citizens

•             build, support, and develop capacity for campus-community partnerships
               and civic engagement programs

•             connect community-based organizations with campus resources

•             remain connected to network of peers all year

•             participate in significant training and professional development opportunities

To apply:

Please send Cover Letter, Resume, and Names, Titles, Addresses, Emails, and Phone numbers of four (4) references to karen.chisholm@tufts.edu or:

Karen Chisholm

AmeriCorps*VISTA Director

Massachusetts Campus Compact                                                                               

196 Boston Ave, Suite 2400

Medford, MA 02155

Additionally, please submit the online AmeriCorps application, which can be found at www.americorps.org.

Massachusetts Campus Compact Listing ID is MA450208-0

Questions should be directed to Carly Bruder, AmeriCorps*VISTA Leader, carly.bruder@tufts.edu

Please visit the webpage at http://ase.tufts.edu/macc For more info on AmeriCorps*VISTA visit http://www.americorps.gov Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so apply early.

Telephone interviews will begin in early March.

AmeriCorps VISTA Leader/Program Coordinator
Washington Campus Compact

The WACC VISTA Leader will hold two main roles:  team coordinator for the state-wide VISTA project and contributor to special WACC office initiatives as assigned throughout their term of service.

As the VISTA team coordinator, the VISTA Leader will provide training, technical assistance, resources and support to the WACC VISTA Project team across the state. The VISTA leader will maintain regular communication with all members of the team via phone, email, periodic in-person meetings and site visits. S/he will assist in organizing a minimum of 2 member training activities and will help to promote and facilitate those activities as needed.  S/he will develop additional resource material as needed and keep VISTA members up to date on professional development opportunities. 

Regarding WACC office operations, the VISTA Leader will also provide support to other WACC initiatives and programs as decided by WACC office staff through the Leader’s term of service.  Such projects may include coordinating assessment initiatives and contributing to WACC event planning and implementation, such as the yearly Continuums of Service conference. 

Currently recruiting for April 2008-April 2009 (start date is flexible).For more information please contact Tegan Callahan, WACC VISTA Leader, at 360-650-7554 or tegan.callahan@wwu.edu

AmeriCorps*VISTA Member

South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD

The Office for Diversity Enhancement at South Dakota State University is recruiting a VISTA to build partnerships and mobilize resources that connect students and communities in service to the common good.  Those interested in American Indian cultures will find this a particularly rewarding place to work and serve.

Specific duties:

• Assist in strengthening strategic community partnerships
• Identify community needs that can be filled by SDSU students
• Work with faculty to integrate service into portions of University curriculum
• Recruit, train, and support students, faculty, and community agencies in service-learning
• Plan and implement service events with campus and community organizations
• Secure resources to initiate and sustain activities

To Apply – send a letter of interest, resume, professional writing sample, and contact information for 3 references to dianne.nagy@sdstate.edu or Office for Diversity Enhancement, FND Box 550, Brookings, SD 57007

Deadlines - May 9, 2008 for June 23, 2008 start date and May 30, 2008 for a July 14 start date. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the due dates.

Contact - Dianne Nagy, SDSU Service-Learning Coordinator, at 605-688-6004 or dianne.nagy@sdstate.edu for more information, or visit http://www3.sdstate.edu/Administration/OfficeforDiversityEnhancement/ and www.americorps.org. 

AmeriCorps*VISTA Member (two positions)

University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD

Center for Academic Engagement

The University of South Dakota Center for Academic Engagement seeks two Americorps VISTA members to help communities and students connect in the tri-state area.  University students in the Interdisciplinary Education & Action, or "IdEA", Program and other university courses seek opportunities to address community needs through service-learning. The VISTA members will develop campus-community partnerships and service-learning initiatives with IdEA and other programs through the Center for Academic Engagement (www.usd.edu/engage).

Responsibilities: Work with low-income and challenged communities to identify service needs that can be filled by University of South Dakota students through service-learning in the Interdisciplinary Education and Action (IdEA) Program and other venues.  Assist in integrating community needs into portions of University curriculum so they may be addressed.

Application Procedure: Please provide a resume, 3 references with contact information, professional writing sample, and letter of interest to the Center for Academic Engagement, 414 E. Clark St., Vermillion, SD,

57069.    EEO/AA.

Application Deadline:  May 9, 2008 for June 23, 2008 start date and May 30, 2008 for a July 14 start date. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the due dates.

Questions may be addressed to: (605) 677-3139 or  engage@usd.edu.

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