Summer Anti-Hunger VISTA Associate

Positions Available

The Food Research & Action Center (FRAC), in partnership with Hunger Free America, has openings for anti-hunger VISTA Summer Associates in its state-based initiatives headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland to help build capacity for the federal nutrition programs in those states. These positions are a 10-week AmeriCorps/VISTA placement with FRAC’s Maryland Hunger Solutions program. FRAC is currently working on a hybrid schedule, this position will require you to do some in-person work.

Organizational Background – The Food Research & Action Center

FRAC works to improve the nutrition, health, and well-being of people struggling against poverty-related hunger in the United States through advocacy, partnerships, and by advancing bold and equitable policy solutions. To attain this mission, FRAC engages in research, policy analysis and advocacy, coalition-building, outreach, technical assistance and training, and an array of communications strategies. In partnership with hundreds of national, state, and local nonprofit organizations, public agencies, corporations, schools, and labor organizations, FRAC addresses hunger and food insecurity, and poverty as their root cause. Currently, FRAC is operating remotely, and this position will be remote as well.

Maryland Hunger Solutions (MDHS) is a FRAC initiative working to create local hunger-free communities and to improve the nutrition, health, economic security, and well-being of low-income residents of these communities. 

Organizational Background – The Hunger Free America Summer Associate Program

The Hunger Free America Summer Associate Program aims to create more food secure families and support nutritious food choices. Summer Associate members will expand and support access to nutritious foods in the summer for children, adults, and families by raising awareness of and eliminating barriers to SNAP and other food/nutrition-access services.

Goals and responsibilities of the summer associate include:

·       Assist in the management of the outreach for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in Maryland.   

·       Recruitment and training of SNAP outreach volunteers.

·       Assist in responding to the Maryland Hunger Solutions toll-free hotline.

·       Assist in educating SNAP customers.

·       Utilize social media to promote SNAP Outreach.

·       Assist in research projects documenting the use of federal nutrition programs. 

·       Collaborate with existing partner agencies- including community and faith-based organizations as well as local social service agencies.

·       Assist in strengthening the capacity of the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) by enhancing awareness and educating families.

Skills and Qualifications

·       Associate or bachelor’s degree, in progress; for a degree in a field related to social justice/anti-hunger.

·       Good oral and written communications skills. Ability to present and speak in public on behalf of the organization.

·       Detail-oriented planning and implementation skills.

·       Willingness to work varied hours.

·       Good organizational skills.

·       Self-starter; ability to work independently.

·       Excellent interpersonal skills; team orientation.

·       Evidence of commitment to social justice; experience with SNAP/food stamp program a plus.

·       Knowledge or interest in child nutrition and hunger-related issues.

·       Experience with Microsoft Office Suite products with ability to use Excel for data collection preferred.

·       Conversant in Spanish strongly preferred.

·       Ability to travel for local meetings and events.

Time Commitment

This is a short-term, 10-week, full-time position with an ideal start date in June. You are expected to be available for the needs of your community and project, including days, nights, and weekends. Because AmeriCorps VISTA service requires a full immersion in the project and community, Summer Associates may be able to have a part-time job outside of VISTA service; however, they will discuss this with their supervisor prior to starting their position. Also, AmeriCorps VISTA Summer Associates must adhere to some restrictions on political and religious activities while in service.

Housing

You are responsible for finding your own housing. No housing allowance will be provided.

Program Benefits

●      July 4 Holiday

.●      Experience in the nonprofit sector.

●      A network of over 180,000 AmeriCorps VISTA members and alums.

To Apply

Please click on the link below to submit a cover letter and resume, along with 2 references.

MDHS

To be considered for this position, you must also complete the AmeriCorps VISTA application at the link below.

https://my.americorps.gov/mp/listing/viewListing.do?fromSearch=true&id=89100

Please no phone calls.

 The position is available immediately. It will close when filled. However, FRAC seeks to hire a qualified individual as soon as possible. 

 FRAC is especially interested in candidates with lived expertise with hunger or poverty who can contribute to the diversity of the organization. 

 FRAC is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. FRAC is firmly committed to a policy against discrimination based on age, gender, race, religious creed, sexual orientation, disability, or ethnic or national origin.