ST. MARYS — Headwaters Charitable Trust will accept concept applications from organizations for AmeriCorps VISTA programs.

The programs must aim to address the needs of low-income communities by building permanent infrastructure in organizations to help them more effectively bring individuals and communities out of poverty.

In 2015, Headwaters Charitable Trust was awarded a team of AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers to create and implement the Living Greener Program. This program supports a green economy by helping the most vulnerable populations develop skills to be successful, both in the workplace and in life. Participants learn about the region’s careers, major industries and natural resources.

In 2017, the VISTA team can be found in local jails offering inmates facing imminent release the opportunity to take a comprehensive Life Skills curriculum that prepares them for success personally and professionally, and places them in direct contact with local CareerLink offices.

As the team began working in communities, partnering organizations began to ask how they could put AmeriCorps to work for them.

Each member of VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) makes a year-long, full-time commitment to serve on a specific project at a nonprofit organization or public agency. In return for their service, AmeriCorps VISTA members receive a modest living allowance and health benefits during their service and have the option of receiving a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award or post-service stipend after completing their service.

Anyone who would like more information or who has a project or program that could use someone dedicated to bringing individuals and communities out of poverty is invited to reach out to Heather Conrad at 814-594-2339 or by email at hconrad@hwct.org. She will help determine if VISTA is right for each organization and help walk them through the application process.