The College for All Texans Foundation: Closing the Gaps is a mission-driven nonprofit corporation that works to generate the resources necessary to ensure the success of the College for Texans Campaign. The College for Texans Campaign is part of the statewide higher education plan to build a college-going culture throughout Texas.
AmeriCorps*VISTA Members serve at GO Centers in K-12 schools in Houston and San Antonio. GO Centers are statewide networks of in-school academic engagement programs that provide students with the necessary tools and resources to plan and prepare for college enrollment. GO Center initiatives and activities often focus on the college admissions process, financial aid resources, career exploration and student and parental outreach and awareness. VISTA Members help students prepare for higher education by providing information about the admissions process and financial aid as well as motivating students to pursue higher education. VISTA members are also trained to recruit high school and college students and other community volunteers to provide Go Center services that facilitate the college-going message among students and their parents. AmeriCorps*VISTA members also collaborate with colleges, universities, and other community-based organizations and partners to promote college awareness and academic development among GO Center students and their families. VISTA Members also create and coordinate G-Force, student-led volunteer groups that increase momentum and awareness of college opportunities among their peers and help to sustain successful Go Centers. VISTA members receive training in college admissions and financial aid processes, G-Force recruitment and development, and program management and evaluation.
A College for All Texans AmeriCorps*VISTA Member may receive:
-a living allowance (approx. $865/month) paid every two weeks;
-an Education award of $4725 (for educational expenses at qualified institutions of higher education, educational training, or to repay qualified student loans) or end-of-service stipend of $1200 payable after completion of service <
http://www.americorps.gov/for_individuals/benefits/benefits_ed_award.asp>;
-Loan postponement and interest paid on qualified student loans <
http://www.americorps.gov/for_individuals/benefits/benefits_ed_award_repayment.asp>;
-Health coverage <
http://www.americorps.sevencorners.com/>;
-Liability insurance, life insurance, relocation allowance, service-related travel reimbursement, childcare assistance, training and professional development opportunities, and noncompetitive eligibility for future federal employment;
-Additional information concerning terms, conditions and benefits of service for the VISTA Program can be reviewed at <
http://www.americorps.gov/for_individuals/benefits/index.asp> and <
http://americorps.gov/help/vistahandbook/chapter1.html#>.
A College for All Texans AmeriCorps*VISTA Member must:
-be a U.S. citizen, U.S. National or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States;
-be at least 20 years of age with at least 60 hours of college coursework;
-be able to work full-time with no outside employment or education commitments;
-pass a criminal background check;
-commit to one full year of VISTA service;
-have reliable transportation.
Preferred Skills
-Commitment and dedication to service;
-Knowledge of college admission and financial aid processes or a willingness to learn;
-Interest or experience working with youth in diverse populations;
-Ability to work on a team, with excellent communication and collaboration skills
-Ability to complete some record keeping and data collection;
-Willingness to occasionally work evenings and/or weekend events;
-Experience in conflict resolution, counseling, education, fundraising, outreach, public speaking, recruitment, teaching/tutoring, writing/editing, mentoring, and youth development.
There are also opportunities to volunteer at local GO Centers across Texas.
