The University of Toledo began hosting an AmeriCorps*VISTA on campus in 2001 through Ohio Campus Compact. The VISTA position is only a year-long commitment with the opportunity of a second year if desired by the VISTA. Therefore, the University usually hosts a new VISTA each year.
What is Americorps*VISTA?
AmeriCorps*VISTA is a national service program in which volunteers live in the communities they serve, designing programs that will continue after they complete their service. Created in 1965, VISTA (Volunteers In Service To America) was designed to meet the needs of underserved communities and to address and combat poverty. In 1993, AmeriCorps was created and merged with the existing VISTA program. The Corporation for National and Community Service, also created in 1993, has oversight for all AmeriCorps*VISTA programs.
What is Ohio Campus Compact?
Ohio Campus Compact (OCC) is the state affiliate for National Campus Compact, implementing the mission and goals of the national organization at the state level. OCC promotes community service that develops students’ citizenship skills and values, encourages collaborative partnerships between campuses and communities, and assists faculty who seek to integrate public and community engagement into their teaching and research. The Ohio Campus Compact AmeriCorps*VISTA program was created in 1998 with six VISTAs focusing on literacy. In 2004 the program grew to 22 VISTAs on 20 member campuses assisting their colleges and universities to enhance and expand the civic engagement of students and faculty in their respective communities.
At the end of each year, the VISTA(s) must present their White Paper, which is their end-of-the-year report about the past, present, and future of service programs and service-learning at The University of Toledo.
AmeriCorps*VISTA Application
Please visit the OCC website (www.ohiocampuscompact.org) for specific information about the benefits of becoming a VISTA volunteer.
