826LA is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting students ages 6 to 18 with their creative and expository writing skills, and to helping teachers inspire their students to write. Our services are structured around the understanding that great leaps in learning can happen with one-on-one attention and that strong writing skills are fundamental to future success. With this in mind we provide drop-in tutoring, field trips, after-school workshops, in-schools tutoring, help for English language learners, and assistance with student publications. All of our free programs are challenging and enjoyable, and ultimately strengthen each student's power to express ideas effectively, creatively, confidently, and in his or her individual voice.

826LA is looking for someone to join our hardworking, passionate team for twelve months as a full-time AmeriCorps VISTA Volunteer Training and Retention Coordinator. Learn the ins and outs of the volunteer program for a non-profit organization as you develop your skills during this one year of service at 826LA. This position offers a unique hands-on learning experience as part of a passionate and creative team. Support the development and implementation of training, resources and retention and systems that will help enhance and enrich the experience of volunteers at 826LA. 

Position responsibilities:

• Conducts outreach, ongoing recruitment, onboarding of volunteers 

• Schedules and leads volunteer orientations and training

• Responsible for ensuring appropriate volunteer numbers and participation in programs on a daily basis

• Supports coordination and implementation of volunteer training, appreciation and retention practices for volunteers through appreciation events, program-based engagement groups, and other organization-wide practices

• Supports all volunteer team-led initiatives, including best practices, training materials, DEI goals and practices, and is responsible for the implementation of these practices

• Updates and maintains volunteer database and tracking systems for volunteers

• Reports to the Director of Volunteer Programs

AmeriCorps VISTA Activities*:

• Implement  a volunteer learning management system or volunteers to enhance skills and improve services delivered to students in programs and virtually

• Support the implementation of an achievement-based volunteer engagement system;

• Create materials for volunteer retention at 826LA programs;

• Collect and share best practices and recommendations to provide for the sustainability of 826LA programs.

Successful candidates for this role will have the following skills:

• High school diploma or equivalent required;

• Experience with database management, with preference given to those with working knowledge of Salesforce;

• Familiarity with WordPress or similar online content management systems preferred;

• Strong analytical and problem solving skills;

• Spanish language skills preferred;

• A commitment to incorporating diversity, equity and inclusion in all aspects of our volunteer outreach, recognition and management efforts;

• Strong ability to multitask, be flexible, and solve problems creatively in a fast-paced environment;

• Exceptional communication skills, both written and interpersonal; 

• A strong work ethic, a collaborative spirit, and a sense of humor;

• Excellent organizational skills;

• A results-oriented spirit, and a willingness to grow and build toward the success of programs;

• A passion for writing, education and especially 826LA’s mission.

Benefits: AmeriCorps VISTA is open to all U.S. citizens, nationals, or lawful permanent resident aliens age 18 and older. VISTA members receive a modest, monthly living allowance to help cover the cost of food, housing, and other basic necessities during service. Amounts are low because VISTAs are expected to live at approximately the same economic level as the people you are serving. The current bi-weekly stipend for Los Angeles County is $697.20. VISTA members who successfully complete a term of service are also eligible to receive either a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $5,550 to pay for college or to pay off qualified student loans, or an end-of-service cash stipend of $1,500.

Mandatory VMO training: 

A Virtual Member Orientation this year, beginning August. There will be more info after offers have been accepted.

First day of service: February 16, 2021

Last day of service: February 15, 2022

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates must complete an application through the My AmeriCorps online portal no later than Friday, January 1.

To apply for the VISTA position, please:

Complete the AmeriCorps online application available here.

Applications close: Friday, January 1, 2021.

For more information, visit the AmeriCorps website.

Organization Details