AmeriCorps VISTA: Employment opportunity

El Centro of Topeka is now hiring an AmeriCorps VISTA position to start in Mid-February 2013.    El Centro of Topeka is currently accepting applications for an AmericCorps VISTA Development Coordinator. The Development Coordinator will help expand and strengthen the capacity of this organization by identifying new funding streams, planning fundraising events; creating fundraising material and more. This position will be rewarded with invaluable nonprofit skills in high demand as well as the gift of making a positive difference in the lives of struggling families. What is AmeriCorps VISTA? AmeriCorps VISTA is the national service program designed specifically to fight poverty. Founded as Volunteers in Service to America in 1965, VISTA has been on the front lines in the fight against poverty in America for more than 40 years. VISTA members commit to serve full-time for a year at a nonprofit organization working to fight illiteracy, improve health services, strengthen community groups, and much more.  VISTA members receive a living stipend and medical coverage. They also receive an education award at the end of their service to put towards students loans or grad school. Development Coordinator VISTA duties: -Build organizational capacity of the organization by researching prospective foundational grants; writing grants; -Planning fund raising event -Writing fund raising letter -Draft and edit community newsletter -Develop and maintain organizational database  Preferred Qualifications: Bachelors degree or higher. Grant writing/Fundraising experience a plus. Excellent organization and communication skills. Demonstrated desire to work for social change. Self-starter with capacity to follow through. Ability to manage multiple projects with varying degrees of complexity. Team player. Excellent writing skills. Experience in similar a program a plus. AmeriCorps*VISTA Benefits: A living allowance, dispersed bi-weekly An education award OR a stipend upon successful completion of service Health care Relocation Allowance Loan forbearance on qualified student loans Interest accrual payment on qualified student loans Child care (if eligible) Training and professional development opportunities Extensive network of AmeriCorps Alums Non-competitive eligibility for federal government service (for one year after service) For more information about the program and the position, please email Lalo Munoz at lmunoz@elcentrooftopeka.org