Vista Web Page 2 — Stewards Individual Placements VISTA members work behind the scenes - not in direct service - creating tools, building systems, and strengthening partnerships so communities are better equipped to meet local needs without long-term federal dependence.

Advancing Local Solutions and Public Service

AmeriCorps VISTA launched in 1965 to strengthen local communities by building the capacity of organizations tackling poverty through long-term, results-driven strategies. For decades, VISTA has helped equip nonprofits, local and federal governments, and community organizations with the tools they need to serve more efficiently and grow their impact.

In 2002, Stewards Individual Placements – a program of the nonprofit Conservation Legacy - joined this mission by since placing over 600 dedicated individuals in positions that serve rural towns, historic communities, and public land areas across the country. Stewards has helped expand VISTA’s reach into regions that value tradition, self-reliance, and stewardship of natural and heritage resources.

In 2024, the Stewards VISTA program made significant strides in volunteer engagement and resource development. A total of 1,615 volunteers were recruited and managed, contributing 6,176 hours of service to community initiatives. Through strategic outreach and partnership-building, the program secured $364,320 in grant funding and leveraged an additional $40,802 in in-kind contributions during the reporting period.

Today, Stewards VISTA continues to uphold values of local leadership, public service, and practical impact by connecting dedicated individuals to communities that are ready to get things done.

VISTA Recruiter Contact: Addie Gilkerson - agilkerson@conservationlegacy.org

Serve. Contribute. Connect.

VISTA Members serve communities across the United States and support non-profit organizations and state and federal agencies to build capacity within communities. From community revitalization to public lands education, to community gardening programs, Stewards VISTAs can make a huge impact, and gain a great deal in return.
Engage and Envision

Training and Mentorship

Training begins with the AmeriCorps Virtual Member Orientation, followed by additional in-person or virtual sessions. Topics may include Community Asset Mapping, Volunteer Management, and Grant Writing/Funding Development. Participants benefit from a wide range of innovative host site and community mentorship initiatives.
Stewards VISTAs and Staff at AmeriCorps Headquarters in Washington D.C.

Uplift and Elevate

VISTA Oath: I will get things done for America – to make our people safer, smarter, and healthier. I will bring Americans together to strengthen our communities. Faced with apathy, I will take action. Faced with conflict, I will seek common ground. Faced with adversity, I will persevere.
Design and Enact

Behind-the-scenes planning and frontline implementation.

Other VISTA project goals include developing strategies to address the root causes of poverty; enhancing volunteerism and civic engagement; strengthening workforce development initiatives; promoting responsible natural resource management in rural areas; expanding educational and service opportunities for youth and veterans; and building sustainable systems and community partnerships that endure.