Information for Host Sites
Is your nonprofit organization, school, or government agency addressing poverty in Northwestern Pennsylvania? Do you engage residents of the low-income community in creating sustainable solutions? Read below to see if hosting a VISTA is right for you.
Host Site Responsibilities
Our project wants every member to have a rewarding experience when they serve. Therefore, organizations must adhere to our project guidelines and policies as stated below.
Contribution
Host sites must contribute $4,500* to support project administration and member development. They also must provide Lake Effect Leaders with in-kind support valued at at least $1,000.
*Contribution amount is subject to change year-to-year. For more information, contact the Project Director.
Supervision Support
Providing VISTAs with weekly supervision and support almost always ensures a successful service year. This means site supervisors must:
- Ensure that VISTA members are working on appropriate assignments that build capacity within the organization, as outlined in the member's VISTA Assignment Description.
- Support VISTAs participation in project activities such as trainings, national service days, and professional development opportunities.
- Communicate with Project Director if concerns arise during the term of service.
Resource Support
Host sites must provide VISTA members with resources to perform their tasks, i.e. adequate work-space, computer, telephone, consumable supplies, etc. VISTAs must also be reimbursed for on-the-job transportation expenses.
Agreement with Allegheny College/Lake Effect Leaders
Host sites must sign a Memorandum of Agreement with Allegheny College and the Lake Effect Leaders AmeriCorps VISTA Project before receiving a service member.
Host sites must also offer a VISTA position with your organization regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, or disability.