Specifically our VISTA project is to increase the capacity of our financial stability programs through partnerships, resource development, volunteer engagement, and program expansion. Utilizing our tax preparation program as the gateway, we increase financial literacy, encourage savings and asset development, and link to employment and other services. To be successful and to expand to meet the needs in our community, we have to increase financial and volunteer support which will form the core of this project.
Our VISTA member will start with orientating himself/herself with our work, then learning the community and our partners. He/she will map our current volunteers and develop strategies to recruit, train, place and retain volunteers in our tax preparation and supportive programs, including our employment work. He/she will support fundraising (grant research, writing and other fundraising) for all aspects of our work. Finally, he/she will work with us on program assessment to improve our financial stability services as well as the expansion and delivery of those services to diverse populations.
The VISTA will be part of a collegial team and will receive support when needed. The team allows much latitude for creativity and independent work. We strive for an open, collaborative work environment with openness to new ideas. We utilize many volunteers whose expertise and leadership are greatly valued. We also have strong partnerships with a variety of organizations.