Community Spotlight: AmeriCorps VISTA

The AmeriCorps VISTA is a member of a unique and dedicated group of individuals serving in the trenches of society to fight poverty in America. Their time and commitment are invaluable to the nonprofits serving in the direct line for services. This national service program, founded in 1965, was the brainchild of President John F. Kennedy. In 1993, Volunteers In Service To America (VISTA) was incorporated into the AmeriCorps network of programs. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the program and we need them now more than ever. According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, more than 46 million Americans live in poverty today. AmeriCorps VISTA taps the skills, talents and passion of more than 7,000 Americans annually to support community efforts to overcome poverty.

VISTA PLEDGE

I will get things done for America — to make our people safer, smarter and healthier.

I will bring Americans together to strengthen our communities.

Faced with apathy, I will take action.

Faced with conflict, I will seek common ground.

Faced with adversity, I will persevere.

I will carry this commitment with me this year and beyond.

I am an AmeriCorps member, and I will get things done.

Meet Brandi Skinner, an AmeriCorps VISTA Leader for 5 AmeriCorps VISTA in the state of Idaho. Supervised under the United Way of Kootenai County, Skinner comes to our area as a third-year veteran of the program. Her background is one of trial, challenge and triumph as a single mother with three children that fell into hard times and got a “hand up” to get back on her feet.

“I have been there,” said Skinner, “What I represent to those we serve is the possibility for hope and overcoming the barriers and obstacles that can keep you from being successful.”

Skinner’s personal experience is what led her to become a VISTA. A back injury led to poor choices and faced with homelessness, Skinner was fortunate to receive a spot in transitional housing for women and children. The staff recognized her desire to learn and serve, to become more than a statistic. There was a bulletin about the need for AmeriCorps VISTA and she applied with the support of the housing staff.

“It was a second chance to rebuild my resume,” said Skinner. The AmeriCorps VISTA program focuses on building participant skills through extensive training opportunities. Skinner’s first year experience was as an AmeriCorps Washington State Reading Core Tutor in the Central Valley School District in Spokane. Skinner developed literacy programs for grades 2-5 at a local elementary school. She received training in first aid and CPR, shelter operations, numerous parenting and caregiver courses, anti-bullying, suicide prevention, and complex trauma. Through reporting procedures, Skinner was also able to build up confidence in her customer service and soft and technical skills.

Following Skinner’s first year, she received the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award. This award is granted as a post-service benefit received by participants who complete a term of national service in an approved AmeriCorps program--AmeriCorps VISTA, AmeriCorps NCCC, or AmeriCorps State and National. The $5,700 educational benefit assisted Skinner in repaying student loans she had accumulated while attending college.

Skinner returned to the VISTA program for a second year as a Volunteer Coordinator for Hearth Homes through the Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners. The goal of the project was to develop a strong volunteer program for the nonprofit organization and create a volunteer committee of leaders in fundraising, maintenance, horticulture and life-skills. For this service, she earned a cost of living stipend.

Skinner relocated to Coeur d’Alene in January 2015, and once settled, found her place as the AmeriCorps VISTA lead in her third year of service.

“We are excited to be working with the Coeur d’Alene School District, Family Promise of North Idaho, and three other United Ways across Idaho,” said Mark Tucker, Executive Director for United Way of Kootenai County. “The project is titled ‘Better Futures for Idaho Youth’ and focuses primarily on advancing literacy among low-income youth,” he added.

When asked about her favorite memory in serving as a VISTA, Skinner shared, “It has to be spending time with the kids and accessing the amazing training I have received. It has made all the difference in my future.”

By serving with AmeriCorps VISTA, you can make a tangible difference. The VISTA finds fulfillment that comes from using their knowledge and skills to help those in disadvantaged circumstances turn their dreams into reality. For more information on how to become an AmeriCorps VISTA, visit http://www.vistacampus.gov/how-apply-americorps-vista.

Skinner is an Inland Northwest Native and single mom with 3 children, ages 22, 12 and 10 years of age. She firmly believes that “second chances build confidence!”

Volunteer opportunities:

The North Idaho AIDS Coalition (NIAC) is seeking volunteer board members — one of the most critical jobs in the organization: leadership and governance. This opportunity requires participants to have qualities that will help the board function better, have an understanding of our community and its needs; a passion for the cause;a willingness to commit time for board meetings, committee meetings, planning sessions, special events; Team player — works well in a group; and someone who listens well, is thoughtful in considering issues. The term of office is for two years. NIAC holds a Board meeting on the fourth Monday of every month from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Make-A-Wish Idaho seeks volunteer wish granters. In this rewarding role, you will be paired with another trained volunteer to work directly with wish kids! Your role is to interview the medically eligible child to help determine his or her one true wish, act as a liaison to the program staff at Make-A-Wish Idaho, and ensure a unique, unforgettable wish experience for the child! Volunteers must be at least 21 years old and be able to pass a criminal background check. Participation in an orientation training course is mandatory. Opportunities to volunteer are available statewide.

For more information on how to register for these volunteer opportunities, visit www.Volutneer.KootenaiUnitedWay.org, to view this listing and other volunteer opportunities in YOUR community, or contact Jeanette Laster at United Way of Kootenai County, (208) 667-8112, Ext. 108.

The United Way of Kootenai County Volunteer North Idaho

GET CONNECTED!

• “One-Stop Volunteer Resource Center” for the whole community

• Ongoing and one-time volunteer opportunities

• TAKE ACTION

(208) 667-8112

visit the United Way’s Volunteer Center website: www.Volunteer.KootenaiUnitedWay.org

GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER