The Brainerd Public Library has the opportunity to recruit an AmeriCorps VISTA through the sponsorship of the Initiative Foundation.
AmeriCorps VISTA, founded as Volunteers in Service to America, is a national service program under the Corporation for National and Community Service. VISTA works to create or expand programs designed to bring individuals and communities out of poverty. The goal of AmeriCorps VISTA at the library will be to work to ensure that low-income youth in Brainerd receive improved access to new technologies and Makerspace programming that will help them increase academic success. The VISTA will develop programs using Sphero robots, Makey-Makey, Lego Robots and more to spark ideas and innovation throughout the community.
The VISTA position is a year-long, full-time commitment and in return for their service, VISTAs receive a modest living allowance and limited health benefit options during their service. They will also be earning money for higher education expenses or to pay off student loans. AmeriCorps VISTA members who successfully complete a year of service can opt to receive an education award of $5,815 that can be used towards qualified school loans and specific educational expenses or an end-of-service cash stipend of $1,500. AmeriCorps VISTA can service as a gap year to pay off loans or save for school as an individual plans for their future schooling or for entering the workforce.
The library will be recruiting for an AmeriCorps VISTA until June 12. More information can be found on https://goo.gl/QqZs59 or by calling Library Manager Jolene Bradley at 218-829-5574.
