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Below is some helpful information to make sure your term begins with a great start.

All AmeriCorps VISTA service members participate in the VISTA Virtual Member Orientation, often referred to as VMO. VMO is a self-directed online orientation that introduces VISTA members to the terms, conditions, and benefits of service and key programming principles at the start of their service. VMO includes tutorials, online readings, and two live webinars.

Lead Up to Your First Day

This three-part virtual preparation begins with the Countdown to Service webinar. Information on this session will be provided to you directly from the AmeriCorps VISTA training team via email. Generally, this session occurs about a week before your first day of service.

Prior to your start of service date, you must complete four key steps. If these are not completed by the Pre-Work deadline (communicated to you by the AmeriCorps VISTA training team, you will not be able to begin VISTA service.

Take the self-directed pre-service coursework on the VISTA Campus
Complete the onboarding forms provided to by the Stewards VISTA staff
Register for your two webinars: Countdown to VISTA Service webinar and Launching Your VISTA Service webinar
Attend the Countdown to VISTA Service webinar

Be sure to join each webinar at least 10 minutes before the start time.

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First Day Information

On your first day, your project site supervisor will walk you through the specifics of your VISTA service which marks the beginning of your On Site Orientation Plan (OSOP). This is created by your project site and will include pieces associated with their organization, the community, and the duties and responsibilities you’ll be tasked with throughout the year. OSOP will likely span a couple of weeks and involve both formal and informal learning.

Also, on your first day, you must attend Launching Your VISTA Service that afternoon. In this webinar, you will learn the VISTA program’s mission, discuss your VISTA Assignment Description (VAD), and get some direction on various resources and support. Most importantly, you will swear into VISTA service. There are some steps to follow after the webinar. Make sure to attend, to get sworn in to service, and to follow the steps to complete your onboarding as an AmeriCorps VISTA.

Orientation

In order for you to become familiar with what is expected of you during your term, you’ll participate in a few different, short orientations with each of the partners supporting you through your term. As mentioned above, you will be continuing your On Site Orientation Plan (OSOP) with your site supervisor, which generally lasts a few weeks. Tasks related to your OSOP will be specific to your term and information will be available by asking your site supervisor.

Additionally, the Stewards staff will provide direction and resources related to tasks such as tracking your service time, information on your living allowance and pay schedule, reporting on your activities, and participating in National Days of Service as they occur.

Please become especially familiar with the following:

Pay Schedule: Refer to as needed
Timesheet Reporting Instructions: Read within your first week
Federal Employees' Compensation Act Information: Review thoroughly and refer to if needed
Still have an unanswered question? Check out our full list of FAQs or reach out to your Program Coordinator.

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