AmeriCorps*VISTA
AmeriCorps*VISTA is a federal service program designed specifically to fight poverty. Founded as Volunteers in Service to America in 1965, VISTA has been on the front lines in the fight against poverty in America for more than 40 years.
Since 1997, Campus Compact VISTA programs have grown to more than 600 VISTA members working on campuses and in communities across 30 state Campus Compact programs.
Campus Compact is a coalition of more than 1,100 college and university presidents who are committed to fulfilling the public purposes of higher education. AmeriCorps*VISTA helps individuals and communities implement grassroots solutions designed to alleviate poverty. Founded as Volunteers to Service in America in 1965, the program places individuals at nonprofit organizations and public agencies that are fighting literacy, improving health services, reducing unemployment, increasing housing opportunities, reducing recidivism, and expanding access to technology for those living in rural and urban areas of poverty across America.
Campus Compact VISTA programs join the mission of Campus Compact and AmeriCorps*VISTA through projects that build campus-community partnerships to fight poverty. Through the Campus Compact VISTA program, we alleviate poverty by strengthening communities and developing our leaders. Our state programs:
- Improve college access and success
- Bring community voice to campus
- Empower students to be community advocates
- Improve service-learning courses that address local, national, and global community issues
- Build the capacity of higher education institutions to strengthen communities
- Develop the skills of VISTA members and students in community organizing, volunteer management, and community partnership development
Contact Us
If you have questions about the MDCC VISTA program or are interested in applying to become a MDCC VISTA, please contact MDCC VISTA Leader Mari Poulos or visit the VISTA website .
VISTA Documents
2011-2012 MDCC-VISTA Concept Paper
2011-2012 MDCC-VISTA Blank Application
Guidance for Current-Potential Sponsors
VISTA Guidance for Alternative Spring Break & Similar Programs