Please note that this is a full time, one year service term, AmeriCorps VISTA Position. This position therefore falls under the Federal Agency, the Corporation for National Community Service, which works to eliminate poverty. It will require initiative, drive and a passion to affect change in low income communities by building the anti-poverty capacity of programs that serve those in need. In return for their service, VISTAs receive a modest living allowance, health benefits, and the option of receiving a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award or post-service stipend.
About the Alliance for Multicultural Community Services
The Alliance for Multicultural Community Services is a community-based organization devoted to serving refugees, immigrants and low-income populations in Houston. The Alliance provides comprehensive services to assist individuals of all nationalities and backgrounds in becoming economically self-sufficient and improve their quality of life. The Alliance also strives to ensure that newly-arrived Americans are integrated into the mainstream community and understand American culture and traditions.
PR & Development VISTA duties
The VISTA Member will build internal and external relations and outreach capacity to bring attention to the unmet needs of Houston’s refugee and immigrant individuals, families, and communities. The VISTA will generate support for The Alliance’s programs which create opportunities for clients to achieve their goals for self-sufficiency and well-being. The VISTA Member will need to have strong technical and creative writing skills. Some activities include: Draft press releases, emails, and other communications to media and supporters that will generate interest in The Alliance’s activities and accomplishments related to client impact; Assist with creating framework for Speakers Bureau; Develop best practices, guidelines, or trainings for staff specifically focused on media preparation, public speaking, and how to strengthen prescribed writing skills amongst staff; and Assist in grant writing activities and the development of a grants management database.
https://my.americorps.gov/mp/listing/viewListing.do?id=80248&fromSearch=true
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent preferred all Majors welcome
- Service oriented with a desire to learn more about nonprofit work
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
- Exceptional organization and time management skills with an attention to detail
- Self-starter with the ability to work independently or in a team
- Flexibility, with a strong work ethic and ability to multitask
- Highly adaptable to culturally diverse individuals and work environments
- Previous experience or service in refugee or low-income communities a plus
- Proficiency in navigating web-based applications including calendars, email, and social media
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
AmeriCorps VISTA Benefits
- Choice of $5,920 Segal Education Award or $1,800 End of Service Stipend upon completion of service
- VISTA members can receive funding matches for the Segal Education Award from select higher education institutions for a variety of majors including but not limited to law, public health, medical, and education.**
- VISTA Living Allowance for Harris County (received in bi-weekly payments)
- Choice of Basic VISTA Health Benefits or VISTA Health Allowance
- Childcare Assistance (if eligible)
- Federal Student Loan Postponement and Interest Payments available
- 1 Year of Federal Employment Non-Competitive Exclusion status after successful completion of service
AmeriCorps VISTA Terms
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must be a U.S. citizen, national, or legal permanent resident alien
- Ability to pass a background check
- Ability to commit to full year of service starting August 2018
- Ability to attend a Pre- Service Orientation (PSO) - All expenses will be covered
- Relocate to Houston, Texas if necessary (relocation allowance available)
- AmeriCorps VISTA is a Federally funded program, all VISTAs are subject to the Hatch Act
AmeriCorps VISTA Application Information & Deadline
- Complete the application form on the My AmeriCorps portal
- Application are now opened and interview are ongoing. No applications after June 15, 2018 will be considered.
Questions? Feel free to contact: Selene Escalera at 713-776-4700 or sescalera@TheAllianceTX.org
