AmeriCorps and Disaster Response

When a disaster strikes there is a pressing need for volunteers and resources. AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteer in Service to America); a program of the Corporation for National and Community Service, continually plays a role in responding to these events by sending volunteers to assist in the recovery and reconstruction of ravaged areas. Before the 2006 hurricane season AmeriCrorps saw that the need for support, assistance, and new preparation was greater than ever. As a result, a program called Helping to Rebuild Communities in the Gulf Coast was developed. VISTA volunteers were recruited for year-long commitments to do things such as building and enhancing volunteer centers to ensure a ready source of volunteers, building and renovating homes, schools, and public buildings, and providing intake and referral for people displaced and homeless. The VISTA members were provided a number of benefits that are available to every volunteer who serves as a VISTA. These benefits include a living allowance, health benefits, training, student loan forbearance, and the choice of a $4,725 Education Award or a $1,200 post-service stipend.

The desire to respond did not end there. When floods overwhelmed Cedar Rapids, Iowa in the spring of 2008 AmeriCorps began recruiting 200 VISTA Summer Associates to be a part of the VISTA Corridor Flood Recovery Program. These volunteers were stationed in Cedar Rapids for 8-10 weeks and provided a living allowance and an end-of-service Education Award of $1,000. Thirty full-time, year-long VISTA volunteers were also recruited and provided the benefits previously listed.

As disasters continue to occur AmeriCorps will be working around the clock to recruit and train volunteers who are eager to respond and aid in recovery and reconstruction efforts.