The city of Phoenix Human Services Department is seeking eight VISTA members to participate in a year-long program that will serve the needs of local children, adults and families.

The VISTA team will work on a variety of projects including fundraising, community and marketing assessments, community outreach, volunteer recruitment and management, research projects, program and curriculum development and evaluation. They will have an opportunity to work with either senior, community, Head Start or Youthbuild programs.

“I’ve been a VISTA since August 2007 with the Head Start Program. It has been a great experience and has given me many opportunities to get more involved with our community, learn new skills and strengthen my work experience,” said Kayla Gundrum, a city VISTA member.

A four-day training program will take place in Denver during the month of August followed by a two-week orientation in Phoenix to define the VISTA projects. The team will begin their city projects in the fall 2008. Participants will gain valuable work experience with some of the best leaders in social services.

The city’s full-time positions are for individuals 21 or older who have had some college experience. Program benefits include health coverage, living allowance, training and a choice of an AmeriCorps Education Award of $4,725 to pay for college, graduate school or to pay back qualified student loans, or a $1,200 end-of-service stipend.

For more information on becoming a VISTA member or the VISTA program, contact Patricia Nightingale at 602-262-6663.