FAQ About Being an OCC AmeriCorps VISTA

Where do OCCAmeriCorps*VISTA members serve?
VISTA members serve at colleges and universities across the state of Ohio. Our sites include public and private, as well as two and four year institutions. Check out our map where current VISTAs are serving!

Can I pick where I serve?
Yes! When applying, OCC VISTA members can pick up to 5 positions that they are interested in! You get to choose what campuses you apply to based on your own interests and preferences!

How long is my VISTA service?
VISTA members serve for one year (12 months). Members can (and many do!) sign on for additional years of service, for up to three VISTA terms.

When does the year of service start?
The year of service starts with a four day Pre-Service Orientation (PSO) which will be held from July 2010 in Indianapolis. OCC VISTAs will learn about volunteer management, grant writing, the history of AmeriCorps, and get to network with other VISTAs from the state! All travel, food, and lodging is covered by the Corporation for National and Community Service. After PSO, all VISTAs will return to their host campuses and begin.

What are the benefits?
OCC AmeriCorps*VISTA members receive a monthly living allowance (varies by region), student loan forbearance for qualified federally backed loans, health coverage (check out http://americorps.sevencorners.com for more info), travel to Pre-Service Orientation, a relocation allowance, room and board at their host campus, as well as a $1200 end of service stipend or Educational Award upon completion of service.

Can I get a part time job on the side?
All AmeriCorps*VISTA members are considered on the job "24/7." Therefore, members may not have any other outside employment or be enrolled in school full time.

I'm moving from out of state and I've never even been to the city where I'll be working. What do I do?
Don't worry! Your host site will provide an orientation to your campus and as you begin working, you will get to know your local community. We encourage OCC VISTAs to be proactive in networking with other young professionals around their host campus. We also encourage regional meetings of OCC VISTAs to network, share ideas, reflect, and just enjoy each others company!

What kinds of training opportunities are available to me as an OCC AmeriCorps*VISTA?
Each year, the VISTA Leaders and Program Director work together to create an OCC VISTA orientation to learn specifically about campus based programs, working with students, and learning about ways to address poverty alleviation through your host campus resources. This is held in early August. Training is continued throughout the year as OCC VISTAs continue to meet together at quarterly VISTA retreats, regional reflection meetings, and other conferences and trainings that are hosted by OCC.