Description:
SUMMARY OF POSITION:
The AmeriCorps* VISTA member project activities will be directed to increasing the capacity of local community partnerships to address the disaster and emergency preparedness and response needs of low-income and underserved parts of their community. Member will build on prior service over the three year course of this project with the goal of extending capacity deeper and wider.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
Member activities and tasks of the project will include:
• Development, coordination and delivery of community-based and language appropriate preparedness and safety training to better prepare communities for emergencies and disasters;
• Capacity building activities such as the development of various tools accessible to non-English and low proficiency readers (i.e. database creation and updating, resource directories);
• Working to enhance, strengthen and diversify the organizational partnerships, networks and collaborations working in preparedness and safety and strengthening their links with under-served communities;
• Integrating representatives from low-income and underserved communities into the organizational partnerships, networks and collaborations working in preparedness and safety;
• Working to increase the capacity of communities to recruit, register and engage diverse spontaneous, unaffiliated volunteers in preparedness and safety and in periods of disaster; • Research, identification and locating of low-income and underserved parts of the local community;
• Identification and connection with leadership from low-income and underserved communities;
• Working to implement Volunteer Reception Centers and Volunteer Coordination Teams prior to and following a major disaster, emergency or act of terrorism; and,
• Resource development, to include writing proposals and soliciting in-kind donations.
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VISTA Requirements
• In collaboration with others, coordinate a special project relating to the accomplishment of VISTA goals and objectives.
• Participate in member development and days of service activities of the VISTA.
• Complete VISTA Member Hour/Activity Report each week
• Complete monthly progress report of activities and accomplishments
• Complete VISTA Member Portfolio.
DISASTER RESPONSE
• In the event of a major disaster VISTA members will be asked to serve on national disaster assignments, either within the chapter jurisdiction or outside the area, supporting Red Cross relief efforts to provide emergency assistance to families affected by disasters.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:
*An interest in disaster and emergency preparedness and response;
*A commitment to serving the needs of low-income and underserved communities;
* Completion of college degree or equivalent;
*Excellent writing skills;
*Computer literate and able to use common software applications;
*Ability to efficiently conduct internet research;
*Experience in community organizing is desirable;
*Proficiency in Spanish and/or locally predominant Asian/Pacific Islander languages;
*Possession of Valid Drivers' License; and,
*Reliable transportation
