The AmeriCorps VISTA Experience with LEAP (Now Hiring!)

Looking for a job after graduating with a college degree can be intimidating for some. Many are simply looking to get their foot in the door and have an employer take a chance on you. Even during my studies, I was disappointed to see many job openings that I thought I’d be qualified for requiring 3-5 years of experience.

To be completely candid, my confidence was dropping every day that I didn’t get that dream job right after college. I wanted to have meaningful work with a mission-aligned organization in my community, but I also wanted an opportunity to do things I had never done before. I wanted to grow, learn and be allowed to face adversity, although many entry level jobs don't provide that kind of opportunity.

That’s where AmeriCorps VISTA was a blessing for me and my future as a professional.

I joined the LEAP team as a VISTA back in the summer of 2019. (Boy, does time fly by!) At the time, it felt like I was drinking out of a firehose -- and I loved it. During the first few weeks of my year-long service term, I realized VISTA service was right for me.

I was talking with my supervisor about how I could utilize my passions and skills to further LEAP’s mission and build increased capacity across the organization. When I wrapped up, I was asked a question I wasn't expecting. "Well, we know your passion and philosophy matches our organization, but what do you want out of this experience?"

Boom! While my skills would benefit the organization and the community, I was allowed to grow as a professional as I helped folks in my own backyard. I, along with the community, got to grow together, and it still holds true today. It was the dream scenario to fall into an opportunity like this, one that just needed a LEAP of faith. (See what I did there?)

Why am I sharing my story? Well, because I know my story isn’t unique, and guess what, we have more VISTA openings! If you or someone you know may be a good fit to serve our country and local community, send them this link. We’re looking for a Housing Development Coordinator and Public Relations Coordinator, learn more on our job board.

VISTAs (Volunteers in Service to America) is essentially the domestic PeaceCorps, working full time (40 hours/week), providing $15,000/year paid by AmeriCorps, a $6,000 education award after one year of service, a monthly housing stipend and additional benefits. Any and all education, skill and experience backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

What we are doing today will long outlast our time in Boise, join the LEAP team as an AmeriCorps VISTA today! Not sure if AmeriCorps VISTA with LEAP is right for you? Send any of your questions to zeb@leaphousing.org