Anyone work with Americorp or Vista?

[graywarrior]

I need pro's and con's.

[lizziegrace]

1. We have some type of relationship with Americorps

at Habitat for Humanity. I'll ask around at work tomorrow for you.

[graywarrior]

2. Thanks. I'm applying for some of their positions, but

I need to know what the downfall is.

[yewberry]

3. I do.

What kind of program are you looking at?

[graywarrior]

5. It's a health program in Lubec Maine

[yewberry]

7. Well

programs are REALLY different and how they work seems to depend on how the program is administered.

My group is administered by a non-profit whose mission is anti-poverty & anti-racist, so we do a lot of work specifically around those issues. It's strange--while we're essentially a bunch of lefties out doing what we can, we do work for the feds.

I work a lot--52 hours this week--but I'm a stipended worker, so I'm "paid" well below the poverty level. There is insurance--it's not great, but it's better than nothing. At the same time, the work is tremendously fulfilling; I am literally changing kids' lives. That feels damned good.

Are there any specific questions that I could anwer? Feel free to PM me.

[graywarrior]

9. Thanks, that is great.

I will PM you, for sure. Let me put my questions together. I have lots.

[greatauntoftriplets]

4. My company is a sponsor of the Chicago City Year team.

http://www.cityyear.org/

[graywarrior]

6. Do you have direct contact with any Americorp staff?

I just need to get an idea of what they are like. See if I'd be a good fit.

[Gormy Cuss]

8. Check this report

On Americorps impacts and outcomes (nonpartisan research, lead author is an expert in this area.)
http://www.abtassociates.com/reports/COMSRVS.pdf.

I've worked with community service sites that have Americorps volunteers as part of the staffing. Usually it's seamless integration in terms of day to day activities, except where program rules restrict it. I haven't dealt with Americorps volunteers in a health setting.

I know former VISTA program participants from the Portland area but no recent Americorps members in Maine.

[graywarrior]

10. Thanks, that is so helpful.

[greatauntoftriplets]

11. No, I am afraid not....

Good luck, though.