To start, there are a few sub-programs within AmeriCorps, including the Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) program. The VISTA program began as an idea conceived by President John F. Kennedy as a way to offer a domestic version of the Peace Corps. It is important to note that the AmeriCorps VISTA is not as similar to the Peace Corps as one might think. While the Peace Corps involves lots of direct service, the purpose of the VISTA program does not; instead, the members of this program do more of what could be considered the “behind the scenes work.” Continuing the work of his predecessor, Lyndon B. Johnson enacted the VISTA program as national service program with the goal of eliminating poverty:
to enhance the professional image of translators and interpreters of sign and spoken languages in all domains
to contribute to the improvement of the standards and professional ethics and practices of interpreters and translators
to strive to protect the rights and interests of all professional interpreters and translators
to increase professional and public awareness of the importance of providing qualified interpreters and translators
to provide an open forum for interpreters and translators to exchange ideas and experiences on a regular basis
Serving with as an AmeriCorps VISTA member with nonprofit such as KITA is absolutely amazing because it gives me the opportunity to combine a lot of my passion and skill while simultaneously learning something new. I am very happy to see how this position helps me learn more about the world of nonprofits, acquire new skills, and do what I love. In this position, I am eager to combine the skills I acquired from my liberal arts studies at Transylvania University with the knowledge I acquired through my experiences beyond the classroom in clubs, internships, and more. I am excited to use my skills and passion for philanthropy, community outreach, and public relations/marketing as I serve with KITA for the next year.
Please watch this video to better understand the AmeriCorps VISTA program.