Community Spotlight: AmeriCorps VISTA

Brandi Skinner, our local AmeriCorps VISTA leader

The AmeriCorps VISTA is a member of a unique and dedicated group of individuals serving in the trenches of society to fight poverty in America. Their time and commitment are invaluable to the nonprofits serving in the direct line for services. This national service program, founded in 1965, was the brainchild of President John F. Kennedy. In 1993, Volunteers In Service To America (VISTA) was incorporated into the AmeriCorps network of programs. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the program and we need them now more than ever. According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, more than 46 million Americans live in poverty today. AmeriCorps VISTA taps the skills, talents and passion of more than 7,000 Americans annually to support community efforts to overcome poverty.