AmeriCorps VISTA position working with Preble Street Maine Hunger Initiative to fight hunger in Maine through increased access to USDA nutrition programs in underserved communities. VISTA members will provide Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) outreach and application assistance and assist in the implementation and expansion of the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), recruit volunteers, increase enrollment and participation, and develop outreach activities in Cumberland, Sagadahoc (assigned to Mid Coast Hunger Prevention Program), and Hancock County (assigned to Healthy Acadia).
This position requires a college degree and a reliable vehicle. VISTA members will need knowledge of hunger and poverty issues, government benefit programs, and the emergency food system and should have experience with or knowledge of volunteerism, fundraising, grant writing, and group facilitation and the ability to work effectively across different sectors (public/private). VISTA members will need excellent communication skills and strong computer skills and will need to be highly organized, detail oriented, flexible, and a team player who can also work independently.
Duties can include working in and around crowded and busy food pantries, lifting and moving food, and driving extensively throughout southern and mid coast Maine and Hancock County.
This is a 12-month full-time position beginning Feb 2013 and may require occasional evening and weekend hours.
Some member benefits include $973 (before taxes) monthly living allowance, choice of a $5,550 education award or $1,500 cash stipend upon successful completion of service year, relocation assistance for members moving more than 50 miles to serve, health coverage including emergency dental coverage, and noncompetitive eligibility status for federal jobs.
Leave time includes 10 personal days, 10 sick days, and 12 holidays during the year.
