Americorps*VISTA
Maggie Ashmore and Isaac Fields
PMSS is currently accepting applications for an AmeriCorps*VISTA position to begin in late July 2011 and end in late July of 2012.
AmeriCorps*VISTA Community Technology Coordinator
The coordinator will build upon the work of community members, previous AmeriCorps*VISTA members and the PMSS staff during the last year by: supporting and working with local members of Pine Mountain Residents for Broadband, a group formed by area residents to find a broadband Internet solution for residents of rural communities on the north side of Pine Mountain; identifying solutions to meet the need for community-wide broadband Internet access; working with community members and campaign organizers Appalshop and the Center for Rural Strategies on a national universal broadband access public-awareness campaign; creating a community web forum for area residents; designing a website for Pine Mountain Residents for Broadband; developing a multi-layered GIS community map that engages and trains community volunteers; designing a series of basic computer skills workshops for community members; conducting a digital story-telling project for the 2011 PMSS Day Camp programs; collecting oral histories in the community; providing technology support and training opportunities for PMSS staff; and raising at least $7,500 to support projects embracing technology that benefits the community.
The ideal candidate should be able to work independently and have a strong passion for rural communities and technology; computer, grant-writing, and GIS-mapping skills; a valid driver's license and a reliable method of transportation; and experience in community organizing.
The VISTA Assignment Description, a more detailed list of goals, objectives, and benchmarks for these positions are available upon request.
VISTA, Volunteers in Service to America, was created by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964 as part of a federal effort to address the root causes of poverty in the United States. Volunteers commit to serve one year with a non-profit or local government agency to create or expand programs designed to improve the lives and overall well-being of individuals and communities in underserved areas.
VISTAs also receive:
• A $5,350 Segal AmeriCorps Education Award or $1,600 post-service stipend
• Modest living allowance
• Healthcare benefits while in service
• Childcare assistance while in service (if qualified)
• Student loan forbearance or deferment while in service
• One year of noncompetitive status for a federal government job
• Access to the network of VISTA & VISTA alumni (170,000 strong)
Service Term: The individual selected for this position will be required to attend the VISTA Orientation training prior to starting the service term at PMSS.
To qualify for the AmeriCorps*VISTA program, an applicant must:
• Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident
• Be willing to take on a wide range of challenges with flexibility and strong organizational skills
• Have a college degree or at least three years of related work experience
• Be over the age of 18
• Have strong writing skills and hands-on skills specific to the project goals
• Be available to serve full-time for one year without any other employment
For more information about Americorps*VISTA and eligibility, visit: www.americorps.org/for_individuals/ready/eligibility.asp. In addition to the AmeriCorps*VISTA online application process, all applicants must send a letter introducing themselves and their interest in this specific position to the project supervisor PMSS at the same time the online application is submitted. The AmeriCorps*VISTA application process also requires a criminal history background check to ensure community members with whom we work are protected, particularly children, individuals with disabilities, and individuals over 60 years old.
Pine Mountain Settlement School is a 97-year-old institution with a history of service to the local community and an award-winning environmental education program. The School is a National Historic Landmark and offers historic preservation programs, cultural events, and community programming. The position is ideal for a person who appreciates rural life, values the natural environment, and has a strong desire to serve a rural Appalachian coalfield community. Pine Mountain Settlement School offers dormitory-style housing, some meals, and community garden space to the individual selected for the position.
All applications must be made through the AmeriCorps*VISTA website. Please also send a letter of interest and a copy of your resume to vista@pinemountainsettlementschool.com.
For more information, visit www.pinemountainsettlementschool.com/VISTA, or contact the AmeriCorps*VISTA project supervisor, Cassie Pfleger, at 606-558-3571 or vista@pinemountainsettlementschool.com.
The Pine Mountain Settlement School is an equal opportunity employer and provider.
If you wish to reach the AmeriCorps*VISTA Office please contact:
Maggie Ashmore
AmeriCorps*VISTA Agriculture Coordinator
mashmorevista@pinemountainsettlementschool.com
(606)558-3416
Isaac Fields
AmeriCorps*VISTA Technology Coordinator
ifieldsvista@pinemountainsettlementschool.com
(606)558-3416