Benefits of Service

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VISTA members are compensated for their service through a living allowance worth $22,882 per year (VISTA Leaders receive $25,215). The allowance is broken down into bi-weekly stipends that can be deposited directly into your bank account. In addition, VISTAs are eligible to receive up to $8,150 in healthcare allowance.

Lake Effect Leaders participate in more than 80 hours of professional development trainings throughout their service term in order to successfully complete VISTA Assignment Descriptions. Additional free trainings and courses can be taken advantage of through the VISTA Campus website. 

Members who successfully complete a VISTA service year are eligible to receive either the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award (education award), or the VISTA end-of-service cash stipend. 

• The Segal AmeriCorps Education Award: The education award, which is valued at $6,895, is in the form of a voucher (not cash), and can be used for future educational training and related expenses at Title IV schools, and/or to repay existing eligible federal student loans (www.vistacampus.gov/in-service/benefits-service).*
  Some higher education institutions will match the Segal Education Award. You can find the full list of matching institutions by clicking here: Segal Ed Award Matches.

• VISTA End-of-Service Cash Stipend: The cash stipend is paid in your last two living allowance checks, and can be used however you like. The value of a cash stipend is approximately $1,800.* (VISTA Leaders receive a $3,000 cash stipend.)

*The value of both the Segal Education Award and the End-Of-Service Cash Stipend are subject to change year-to-year. 

VISTAs who complete their service receive one year of non-competitive eligibility for employment in the federal government.  

The Lake Effect Leaders offers a unique opportunity to serve with 20+ other VISTA members living in Erie and Crawford counties.

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