Here’s how it works:
Other guidelines for potential VISTA project site partners:
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Potential partnering organizations must be one of the following:
- Public, private, or faith-based nonprofit organization (must have 501c3 status)
- Local, state, or federal agency
- Tribal government
For-profit entities—even those that are active in the community and/or are designated as a social enterprise—are not eligible to apply for a VISTA. We encourage you to connect with our business development services team if you would like support in expanding your business.
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Organizations must have a focus on fighting poverty in the community as VISTAs are not to be used for the purposes of providing general services; they may only focus on poverty alleviation.
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Organizations will be asked to clearly demonstrate how their proposed VISTA programs address systemic rather than immediate needs.
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Sites must be willing to follow all federal regulations concerning the VISTA program, one of which is a prohibition on members performing direct service.
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Members cannot replace staff or fill a position that was recently vacated by staff.
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Host organizations must provide a physical office location, substantial supervision, adequate organizational infrastructure, and all materials necessary to completing the VISTA project.
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Most years, we require a cash match of between $5,000 and $7,000. We endeavor to keep our match as low as possible while ensuring a high-quality experience for our members.
We operate two recruitment cycles. Our Request For Proposal (RFP) is typically released August and due by mid-September for sites that will commence in February/March. Another RFP is opened in January and due by early March for sites that will commence in late August.
If you are a qualified agency with a project focused on economic development, housing, job skills training, or asset building, and interested in developing a VISTA project for your organizations, please contact:
Matthew Cramer
VISTA Program Director
Phone: (503) 896-5074
Email:mcramer
