Start with the general problem you're working on - A PROBLEM is a negative condition that people in your community are experiencing. A problem is always very general, affects several people or groups of people and if asked, most people will agree that it is a problem.
Examples of problems include: Crime on the streets,unemployment, substandard housing conditions.
Next, choose an issue that you're going to work on. An ISSUE is winnable or loseable. It is specific, relates to the problem, but not everyone is going to agree on it.
Examples of issues include: For the police and city to provide afternoon and evening youth programs and specialized activities for kids who are either gang members or are vulnerable to joining a gang.
The next step is to conduct research about the problem that is going to strengthen your case, and help you figure out who your adversaries are, and develop your tactics. (For example, what time do most crimes occur that involve gangs or the youth of the ages you're targeting. Who is being arrested? How many youth are at-risk in your community?)
Now decide what your Recomendations/Requests (demands) are. RECOMMENDATIONS/DEMANDS are the specific requests you're going to make that will address or solve the problem. Demands mist be specific and measurable so that everyone will know when you've achieved your goal or won your issue.
Examples of demands or recommendations could be: Demand that the city and police budgets include specific activities for gang members as well as non-gang members. Demand that the city include youth representatives from the community to participate in planning and organizing activities.
Next determine who your Advesaries/Enemies/Targets are. ADVERSARIES are the people who have the power to make changes on your issues or the problem, but are probably going to have objections. (You'll need to make a plan to overcome those objections in order to win - so the more information and research you can gather in the beginning, the better your chances are.)
The next step is to determine who your Friends and supporters are. FRIENDS are the people, groups, organizations and businesses you can count on to be on your side and supportive of your issues or who are working on the problem also. Figure out how closely they need to be involved (or will want to be involved) in working on this issue. Put together several different action plans requiring different levels of commitment and involvement. For example, a simple action could be to start a letter writing or petition campaign. People only have to write a letter (or sign onto one that's already been drafted), or sign their name onto a petition to show support. Create other actions with increasingly more involved levels of support, and put together all of the necessary materials, background information and resources that will be needed. To be effective you need to make it as simple to get involved as possible, and have something to do for each level of action you choose to have available.
Note: Whatever action you choose to take, make sure that it's within the experience of the people who are working on the issue. That's not to say that it has to be inside their comfort zone - it doesn't. But whatever action you take needs to be at their level of ability and capability, and they need to be invested in the success of the issue and of the problem.
Once you understand the problem, have your issue and your volunteers have decided on a course of action and developed a project (grassroots campaign), it's the VISTA Volunteer or Project Manager's responsibility to see that it's carried out. Not to do all the work yourself - but oversee the details and make sure that everything is staying on track.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Plan Your Service Project For National & Global Youth Service Day 2007
National & Global Youth Service Day, the largest service event in the world, is April 20-22, 2007. Resources are available to help you plan your service project:
*Order or download free planning resources: Planning Tool Kits, Service-Learning Curriculum Guides, posters are available at www.ysa.org/nysd/resource/planning.cfm.
The Planning Tool Kit is a comprehensive guide to help project planners identify their projects, recruit volunteers, generate media attention, raise funds, and more. The Service-Learning Curriculum Guide contains eight lessons to develop students' project management skills while planning projects for National & Global Youth Service Day. Classroom Posters are colorful tools to recruit volunteers and decorate project sites. The back of the poster contains a guide for teachers and activity sheets for students.
*Apply for a grant to support your project: Youth Service America is pleased to offer grants to help young people and organizations plan and implement service projects for National & Global Youth Service Day and beyond. Current grant opportunities include National Crime Prevention Council Grants; Red, White, and Green Climate Change Grants; and YSA Youth Venture Program Grants (to support sustainable social ventures). Visit www.YSA.org/awards for more information.
*Order or download free planning resources: Planning Tool Kits, Service-Learning Curriculum Guides, posters are available at www.ysa.org/nysd/resource/planning.cfm.
The Planning Tool Kit is a comprehensive guide to help project planners identify their projects, recruit volunteers, generate media attention, raise funds, and more. The Service-Learning Curriculum Guide contains eight lessons to develop students' project management skills while planning projects for National & Global Youth Service Day. Classroom Posters are colorful tools to recruit volunteers and decorate project sites. The back of the poster contains a guide for teachers and activity sheets for students.
*Apply for a grant to support your project: Youth Service America is pleased to offer grants to help young people and organizations plan and implement service projects for National & Global Youth Service Day and beyond. Current grant opportunities include National Crime Prevention Council Grants; Red, White, and Green Climate Change Grants; and YSA Youth Venture Program Grants (to support sustainable social ventures). Visit www.YSA.org/awards for more information.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
VISTA Volunteer Organizes Student Volunteers for Food Pantry and more...
Community groups support pantry
By Cathy Gilbertie Knipper
Friday, December 15, 2006 - Updated: 09:33 AM EST
They are businesses and community organizations. They are individuals and groups. Some, like the recipients who frequent the doors Cupboard of Kindness, Norton’s food pantry, come only for a short time, some are regulars, but all have a common goal — to support those in need.
Valerie Goddard, director of Cupboard of Kindness, says there are so many in town who help out, it is difficult to identify only a few groups. From Selectman Robert Kimball who found a permanent site for the pantry to the schools who run many food drives to individual businesses like Roche Brothers and Norton Car Wash which provide continual monthly support, Goddard said she welcomes all donations from the community.
“People ask, ‘What can we do to make a difference?’” Goddard said. “If every business had a food drive, that would make an enormous difference.”
For Ryan Henke, director of the Wheaton College Service, Spirituality and Social Responsibility office, the food pantry is part of the school’s mission.
“We like to show students there’s a need in your local community and you can make a difference where you are,” Henke said.
Henke , an AmeriCorps*VISTA member, began work at Wheaton in July, and reinstituted the freshman orientation community service program, where incoming students volunteer in the community. Four freshmen spent an afternoon cleaning and stocking the pantry during the first week of September.
During homecoming weekend, Wheaton’s Class of 1956 donated $1,500 to the food pantry and Henke challenged students, staff and alumni to meet the donation in a cans-to-dollars match. The three-week food drive netted 1,587 non-perishable items for the pantry.
Henke said students enjoy volunteering in the community, but for many students, transportation is an issue, which makes the pantry a perfect match. The pantry is a short walk from campus and he knows students are safe and welcome there.
To read the rest of this article that can give you some good ideas for volunteer projects, click the link.
By Cathy Gilbertie Knipper
Friday, December 15, 2006 - Updated: 09:33 AM EST
They are businesses and community organizations. They are individuals and groups. Some, like the recipients who frequent the doors Cupboard of Kindness, Norton’s food pantry, come only for a short time, some are regulars, but all have a common goal — to support those in need.
Valerie Goddard, director of Cupboard of Kindness, says there are so many in town who help out, it is difficult to identify only a few groups. From Selectman Robert Kimball who found a permanent site for the pantry to the schools who run many food drives to individual businesses like Roche Brothers and Norton Car Wash which provide continual monthly support, Goddard said she welcomes all donations from the community.
“People ask, ‘What can we do to make a difference?’” Goddard said. “If every business had a food drive, that would make an enormous difference.”
For Ryan Henke, director of the Wheaton College Service, Spirituality and Social Responsibility office, the food pantry is part of the school’s mission.
“We like to show students there’s a need in your local community and you can make a difference where you are,” Henke said.
Henke , an AmeriCorps*VISTA member, began work at Wheaton in July, and reinstituted the freshman orientation community service program, where incoming students volunteer in the community. Four freshmen spent an afternoon cleaning and stocking the pantry during the first week of September.
During homecoming weekend, Wheaton’s Class of 1956 donated $1,500 to the food pantry and Henke challenged students, staff and alumni to meet the donation in a cans-to-dollars match. The three-week food drive netted 1,587 non-perishable items for the pantry.
Henke said students enjoy volunteering in the community, but for many students, transportation is an issue, which makes the pantry a perfect match. The pantry is a short walk from campus and he knows students are safe and welcome there.
To read the rest of this article that can give you some good ideas for volunteer projects, click the link.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Low Income Families in Houston to Bridge the Digital Divide thanks to Habitat for Humanity and AT&T
Houston Habitat for Humanity Connects Low-Income Residents with Vital Technology Resources
Saturday December 16, 10:00 am ET
Through Nation's Largest In-Home Technology Access Initiative, AT&T AccessAll Will Provide Computers, Internet Access, Training to 300 Houston Families
HOUSTON, Dec. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Houston Habitat for Humanity announced today that it has teamed with AT&T to bring technology resources to 300 low-income Houston families under the three-year, $100 million AT&T AccessAll signature initiative. AT&T AccessAll is the nation's largest-ever program designed to provide in-home Internet and technology access, benefiting 50,000 low-income families across the country through a unique collaboration with One Economy Corporation, Habitat for Humanity affiliates and other low-income housing providers.
To read more about the technology resources and the AT&T initiative click the link.
Saturday December 16, 10:00 am ET
Through Nation's Largest In-Home Technology Access Initiative, AT&T AccessAll Will Provide Computers, Internet Access, Training to 300 Houston Families
HOUSTON, Dec. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Houston Habitat for Humanity announced today that it has teamed with AT&T to bring technology resources to 300 low-income Houston families under the three-year, $100 million AT&T AccessAll signature initiative. AT&T AccessAll is the nation's largest-ever program designed to provide in-home Internet and technology access, benefiting 50,000 low-income families across the country through a unique collaboration with One Economy Corporation, Habitat for Humanity affiliates and other low-income housing providers.
To read more about the technology resources and the AT&T initiative click the link.
Friday, December 15, 2006
The White House Summit On Malaria
On December 14, 2006, The President And Mrs. Bush Will Host The First-Ever White House Summit On Malaria In Washington, D.C. The White House Summit on Malaria will bring together international experts; corporations and foundations; African civic leaders; and voluntary, faith-based and non-profit organizations. The Summit's goals are to raise awareness of malaria and to mobilize a grassroots effort to save millions of lives in Africa. One American with just $10 can help save a life in Africa. A school, a church, or a team can help save a village. Together, Americans can help protect an entire continent.
The President’s Malaria Initiative Is Saving Lives. President Bush announced the President's Malaria Initiative (PMI) in June 2005. A five-year, $1.2 billion program, PMI challenges the private sector to join the U.S. government in combating malaria in 15 of the hardest-hit African countries. PMI's goal is to cut malaria’s mortality rate by 50 percent in these target countries, freeing these African nations and their citizens from the grip of debilitating disease.
* Through Partnerships Working In The First Three Target Countries – Angola, Tanzania And Uganda – Aid From The American People Has Already Reached About Six Million Africans. In 2007, 30 million more will receive life-saving medicines, sprays, and nets as the program expands. Other target countries include: Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, and Senegal.
* PMI Has Helped Deliver Bed Nets In Zanzibar In Tanzania Where Malaria Is The Leading Cause Of Death. In early 2006, PMI and the Global Fund collaborated to distribute more than 230,000 insecticide-treated bed nets to the people of Zanzibar. Zanzibar has seen a startling decrease in its reported malaria cases and quicker recovery for those infected:
o The number of confirmed malaria cases on Pemba Island dropped 87% from January to September in 2006 to 1,570 down from 12,531 over the same period last year, according to local health reports.
o In Zanzibar, malaria was greatly reduced among children under age five after new U.S. and other assistance began, according to local health officials. The success in Zanzibar shows that malaria can be controlled in larger regions.
The White House Summit On Malaria Will:
* Announce Eight New PMI Target Countries. The President will announce eight additional countries designated as PMI target countries: Benin, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia Madagascar, Mali and Zambia.
* Launch The Malaria Communities Program. The President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) will launch the Malaria Communities Program, a $30 million initiative to build independent, sustainable malaria-control projects in Africa by providing grants to African NGOs and religious groups to support their malaria-control work. These initiatives will protect children and families and will help citizens take charge of their own health.
* Create “Volunteers For Prosperity” Program For Malaria. Many groups fighting malaria depend on the generosity of skilled professionals like doctors and nurses, who volunteer their services far from home. Through the President’s Volunteers for Prosperity program, organizations involved in the President’s Malaria Initiative can receive grants for highly skilled volunteers to contribute their efforts to combating malaria in Africa.
* Designate April 25, 2007 As “Malaria Awareness Day.” The more people know about this disease, the more quickly we can defeat it. President Bush will designate April 25, 2007, as “Malaria Awareness Day.” African countries and other nations commemorate April 25 to raise global awareness of malaria, and to reaffirm their commitment to fighting this disease. The United States is proud to stand with them.
White House Summit On Malaria Themes
* The Challenge Of Malaria In Africa. One child dies in Africa every 30 seconds from malaria. At least one million infants and children under five in sub-Saharan Africa die each year from the mosquito-borne disease. Older children and adults who do get malaria lose an average of six weeks at school or work from illness. This disrupts business and leaves poor families short of income, food, and medicine.
* The Power Of Public-Private Partnerships. Mobilizing private sector support is a key component in controlling malaria in Africa. When governments partner with NGOs, corporations and foundations, faith-based and service organizations and private citizens, the combined effort can save lives, educate the public about malaria, and send a global message. Public-private partnerships enable the U.S. government and its other partners to maximize their effectiveness and support a comprehensive approach to control malaria.Organizations at the summit announced commitments to dedicate additional resources to put thousands of new boots on the ground and to help defeat malaria.
* Growing The Grassroots. Powerful grassroots movements can raise awareness of malaria, and highlight ways that organizations and individuals can get involved in combating this preventable disease in Africa. With new enthusiastic efforts from Malaria No More and other organizations, America’s corporations and foundations, NGOs and non-profit organizations, individuals and America’s young people are being challenged to save lives and build a bridge between peoples.
Partnering Together To Fight Malaria
No Single Organization Or Entity Can Solve Global Health Issues Facing Africa. Groups like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, ExxonMobil, the Global Fund, Malaria No More and Saddleback Church are rising to President Bush’s challenge and mobilizing private sector support to defeat malaria in Africa.
White House Summit On Malaria Partners Include:
* The Office of the Coordinator for the President’s Malaria Initiative at the U.S. Agency For International Development
* The Office of Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs at the U.S. State Department
* Malaria No More
The President’s Malaria Initiative Is Saving Lives. President Bush announced the President's Malaria Initiative (PMI) in June 2005. A five-year, $1.2 billion program, PMI challenges the private sector to join the U.S. government in combating malaria in 15 of the hardest-hit African countries. PMI's goal is to cut malaria’s mortality rate by 50 percent in these target countries, freeing these African nations and their citizens from the grip of debilitating disease.
* Through Partnerships Working In The First Three Target Countries – Angola, Tanzania And Uganda – Aid From The American People Has Already Reached About Six Million Africans. In 2007, 30 million more will receive life-saving medicines, sprays, and nets as the program expands. Other target countries include: Malawi, Mozambique, Rwanda, and Senegal.
* PMI Has Helped Deliver Bed Nets In Zanzibar In Tanzania Where Malaria Is The Leading Cause Of Death. In early 2006, PMI and the Global Fund collaborated to distribute more than 230,000 insecticide-treated bed nets to the people of Zanzibar. Zanzibar has seen a startling decrease in its reported malaria cases and quicker recovery for those infected:
o The number of confirmed malaria cases on Pemba Island dropped 87% from January to September in 2006 to 1,570 down from 12,531 over the same period last year, according to local health reports.
o In Zanzibar, malaria was greatly reduced among children under age five after new U.S. and other assistance began, according to local health officials. The success in Zanzibar shows that malaria can be controlled in larger regions.
The White House Summit On Malaria Will:
* Announce Eight New PMI Target Countries. The President will announce eight additional countries designated as PMI target countries: Benin, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia Madagascar, Mali and Zambia.
* Launch The Malaria Communities Program. The President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) will launch the Malaria Communities Program, a $30 million initiative to build independent, sustainable malaria-control projects in Africa by providing grants to African NGOs and religious groups to support their malaria-control work. These initiatives will protect children and families and will help citizens take charge of their own health.
* Create “Volunteers For Prosperity” Program For Malaria. Many groups fighting malaria depend on the generosity of skilled professionals like doctors and nurses, who volunteer their services far from home. Through the President’s Volunteers for Prosperity program, organizations involved in the President’s Malaria Initiative can receive grants for highly skilled volunteers to contribute their efforts to combating malaria in Africa.
* Designate April 25, 2007 As “Malaria Awareness Day.” The more people know about this disease, the more quickly we can defeat it. President Bush will designate April 25, 2007, as “Malaria Awareness Day.” African countries and other nations commemorate April 25 to raise global awareness of malaria, and to reaffirm their commitment to fighting this disease. The United States is proud to stand with them.
White House Summit On Malaria Themes
* The Challenge Of Malaria In Africa. One child dies in Africa every 30 seconds from malaria. At least one million infants and children under five in sub-Saharan Africa die each year from the mosquito-borne disease. Older children and adults who do get malaria lose an average of six weeks at school or work from illness. This disrupts business and leaves poor families short of income, food, and medicine.
* The Power Of Public-Private Partnerships. Mobilizing private sector support is a key component in controlling malaria in Africa. When governments partner with NGOs, corporations and foundations, faith-based and service organizations and private citizens, the combined effort can save lives, educate the public about malaria, and send a global message. Public-private partnerships enable the U.S. government and its other partners to maximize their effectiveness and support a comprehensive approach to control malaria.Organizations at the summit announced commitments to dedicate additional resources to put thousands of new boots on the ground and to help defeat malaria.
* Growing The Grassroots. Powerful grassroots movements can raise awareness of malaria, and highlight ways that organizations and individuals can get involved in combating this preventable disease in Africa. With new enthusiastic efforts from Malaria No More and other organizations, America’s corporations and foundations, NGOs and non-profit organizations, individuals and America’s young people are being challenged to save lives and build a bridge between peoples.
Partnering Together To Fight Malaria
No Single Organization Or Entity Can Solve Global Health Issues Facing Africa. Groups like the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, ExxonMobil, the Global Fund, Malaria No More and Saddleback Church are rising to President Bush’s challenge and mobilizing private sector support to defeat malaria in Africa.
White House Summit On Malaria Partners Include:
* The Office of the Coordinator for the President’s Malaria Initiative at the U.S. Agency For International Development
* The Office of Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs at the U.S. State Department
* Malaria No More
President Bush Recognizes Cairo Woman for Dedication to Volunteer Service
President George W. Bush will present the President’s Volunteer Service Award to Holly Theis when he arrives at the airport in Grand Island, Nebraska, on Sunday, November, 5, 2006. Theis is a volunteer with Grand Island Habitat for Humanity. To thank them for making a difference in the lives of others, President Bush honors a local volunteer, called a USA Freedom Corps Greeter, when he travels throughout the United States. President Bush has met with more than 550 individuals around the country, like Theis, since March 2002.
Theis has been a volunteer for two years with Grand Island Habitat for Humanity. She is currently assisting with the construction on her fourth Habitat for Humanity home. Theis also serves as the Family Support Volunteer who helps the Partner Family feel welcome in their new home and neighborhood. In addition, she participates in fundraising activities, serves on the Finance Committee and is the Habitat for Humanity liaison to the Central Nebraska Home Builders Association.
In his January 2002 State of the Union Address, President Bush called on all Americans to make a difference in their communities through volunteer service. He created USA Freedom Corps, an Office of the White House, to strengthen and expand volunteer service. Americans are responding to the President’s Call to Service. Go to www.volunteer.gov or call 1-877-USA-CORPS to find an existing volunteer service opportunity in your area or to find more information about service programs, including national service programs such as the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, and Citizen Corps. USA Freedom Corps is also highlighting youth volunteer service. Visit www.volunteerkids.gov for games and ideas designed to show how America's youth are making a difference.
The President's Volunteer Service Award was created at the President’s direction by the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation. The Award is available to youth ages 14 and under who have completed 50 or more hours of volunteer service; to individuals 15 and older who have completed 100 or more hours; and to families or groups who have completed 200 or more hours. For more information about the Award, please visit www.presidentialserviceawards.gov.
Theis has been a volunteer for two years with Grand Island Habitat for Humanity. She is currently assisting with the construction on her fourth Habitat for Humanity home. Theis also serves as the Family Support Volunteer who helps the Partner Family feel welcome in their new home and neighborhood. In addition, she participates in fundraising activities, serves on the Finance Committee and is the Habitat for Humanity liaison to the Central Nebraska Home Builders Association.
In his January 2002 State of the Union Address, President Bush called on all Americans to make a difference in their communities through volunteer service. He created USA Freedom Corps, an Office of the White House, to strengthen and expand volunteer service. Americans are responding to the President’s Call to Service. Go to www.volunteer.gov or call 1-877-USA-CORPS to find an existing volunteer service opportunity in your area or to find more information about service programs, including national service programs such as the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, and Citizen Corps. USA Freedom Corps is also highlighting youth volunteer service. Visit www.volunteerkids.gov for games and ideas designed to show how America's youth are making a difference.
The President's Volunteer Service Award was created at the President’s direction by the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation. The Award is available to youth ages 14 and under who have completed 50 or more hours of volunteer service; to individuals 15 and older who have completed 100 or more hours; and to families or groups who have completed 200 or more hours. For more information about the Award, please visit www.presidentialserviceawards.gov.
Intake Survey for Volunteer Managers
As you recruit for volunteers of all ages and abilities for your organization, you can conduct an intake survey focused on interests and experiences of volunteers to best determine if someone is a qualified individual for a service position. The Independent Sector, a non-profit organization created a survey to assist organizations in the recruitment and placement process of service members with and without disabilities. You can view this survey at http://www.independentsector.org/GandV/volunteer.htm.
The Independent Sector is the leadership forum for charities, foundations, and corporate giving programs committed to advancing the common good in America and around the world. This coalition of approximately 550 organizations leads, strengthens, and mobilizes the charitable community in order to fulfill the vision of a just and inclusive society and a healthy democracy of active citizens, effective institutions, and vibrant communities.
As always, the team at the National Service Inclusion Project are here to answer any questions you might have concerning the inclusion of people with disabilities in national service. Please contact us toll-free at 1-888-491-0326 voice/TTY or email us at nsip@umb.edu.
Lucy Bayard
Training Specialist
National Service Inclusion Project
www.serviceandinclusion.org
The Independent Sector is the leadership forum for charities, foundations, and corporate giving programs committed to advancing the common good in America and around the world. This coalition of approximately 550 organizations leads, strengthens, and mobilizes the charitable community in order to fulfill the vision of a just and inclusive society and a healthy democracy of active citizens, effective institutions, and vibrant communities.
As always, the team at the National Service Inclusion Project are here to answer any questions you might have concerning the inclusion of people with disabilities in national service. Please contact us toll-free at 1-888-491-0326 voice/TTY or email us at nsip@umb.edu.
Lucy Bayard
Training Specialist
National Service Inclusion Project
www.serviceandinclusion.org
Saturday, December 02, 2006
The Activist Guide Website
Well, I've been making some changes and updating the Activistguide.com Website. If you're looking for more information about "Life After VISTA" check out some of the related articles on building a resume, interviewing tips and creating the career of your dreams.
If you need more information about protecting your computer, getting rid of spam or updating your Website, check out the computer resources.
And as always, please feel free to leave your comments, drop me an email or submit an article or fact sheet.
If you need more information about protecting your computer, getting rid of spam or updating your Website, check out the computer resources.
And as always, please feel free to leave your comments, drop me an email or submit an article or fact sheet.
Friday, October 06, 2006
What a waste - food being thrown away
I just read this article in the Burlington Free Press written by staff writer
John Briggs about how $600 worth of food - expensive cheeses, marinated meatballs, tortilleni and a bunch of other yummy sounding goodies - got thrown in the trash because the local emergency food services progams in the area don't have a program in place to be able to accept food donations at night.
For want of staff members and a refrigerated truck, low-income people in the area are missing out on having enough food to eat.
You can read the article by clicking here:
This sounds like a perfect job for a VISTA Volunteer...
What about you? Do you work with an emergency food program? Do you have a program in place for picking up food at night from restaurants, caterers and the like? How is the program structured?
What are the pitfalls someone wanting to start such a program should look for?
Enquiring minds want to know!
John Briggs about how $600 worth of food - expensive cheeses, marinated meatballs, tortilleni and a bunch of other yummy sounding goodies - got thrown in the trash because the local emergency food services progams in the area don't have a program in place to be able to accept food donations at night.
For want of staff members and a refrigerated truck, low-income people in the area are missing out on having enough food to eat.
You can read the article by clicking here:
This sounds like a perfect job for a VISTA Volunteer...
What about you? Do you work with an emergency food program? Do you have a program in place for picking up food at night from restaurants, caterers and the like? How is the program structured?
What are the pitfalls someone wanting to start such a program should look for?
Enquiring minds want to know!
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Americorps VISTA Leader Opportunity in Monteray County CA
This just in from Sara:
AmeriCorps*VISTA Leader Opening in Monterey County, CA
When:
Open November 2, 2006/ Application Deadline Oct. 13
Who:
~Anyone who has previous VISTA or Peace Corps experience.
~Bachelor Degree highly preferred
~Must have reliable transportation
~Bilingual skills helpful, but not required
Why:
~You get excellent Leadership experience and a chance to grow personally as well as professionally.
~Live on California's beautiful Monterey Bay coastline (2hr South of San Francisco.).
~Option for $4,725 Educational Award or $1,200 cash upon completion of one year term.
~Housing provided for $250/month
~Living Allowance of $1020/month
~Professional Training Opportunities
~Student Loan Deferment
~Health Insurance
~Mileage Reimbursement
~Possible $300 Child Care Reimbursement
~Option to apply for Food Stamps
What:
VISTA H.O.P.E . (Homelessness Overcome by Personal Empowerment). The project works to improve services to homeless and very low-income families and individuals in Monterey County. The result is the improvement of the services that reduce and prevent homelessness and the hardships associated with poverty.
How:
Glorietta Rowland or Sara Brown
call: 831.883.3080 fax: 831.883.3085
email: mbvistaleader@gmail.com or chspmontry@aol.comAmeriCorps*VISTA Leader Opening in Monterey County, CA
Want to see what the area looks like first? Take a "virtual tour" by clicking here: http://www.inetours.com/CA-Coast/Monterey.html
It's beautiful - reminds me a bit of the French Riviera - and trust me, it's great to live in a place like this - sun, sea, scenery - it makes getting up to go to work a lot more fun!
AmeriCorps*VISTA Leader Opening in Monterey County, CA
When:
Open November 2, 2006/ Application Deadline Oct. 13
Who:
~Anyone who has previous VISTA or Peace Corps experience.
~Bachelor Degree highly preferred
~Must have reliable transportation
~Bilingual skills helpful, but not required
Why:
~You get excellent Leadership experience and a chance to grow personally as well as professionally.
~Live on California's beautiful Monterey Bay coastline (2hr South of San Francisco.).
~Option for $4,725 Educational Award or $1,200 cash upon completion of one year term.
~Housing provided for $250/month
~Living Allowance of $1020/month
~Professional Training Opportunities
~Student Loan Deferment
~Health Insurance
~Mileage Reimbursement
~Possible $300 Child Care Reimbursement
~Option to apply for Food Stamps
What:
VISTA H.O.P.E . (Homelessness Overcome by Personal Empowerment). The project works to improve services to homeless and very low-income families and individuals in Monterey County. The result is the improvement of the services that reduce and prevent homelessness and the hardships associated with poverty.
How:
Glorietta Rowland or Sara Brown
call: 831.883.3080 fax: 831.883.3085
email: mbvistaleader@gmail.com or chspmontry@aol.comAmeriCorps*VISTA Leader Opening in Monterey County, CA
Want to see what the area looks like first? Take a "virtual tour" by clicking here: http://www.inetours.com/CA-Coast/Monterey.html
It's beautiful - reminds me a bit of the French Riviera - and trust me, it's great to live in a place like this - sun, sea, scenery - it makes getting up to go to work a lot more fun!
Friday, September 22, 2006
Free Saturday
This is the first "free" Saturday we've had in a while. We don't have to go anywhere, do anything, see anybody...oops! There went the buzzer. Okay, AFTER the guy fixes the washing machine we've got a free Saturday. I'd forgotten about him. One thing I have to say is that repairmen in France are incredibly reliable and on time. Last week he said he'd be here on Saturday at 8:00 a.m. and he rang the buzzer at - 8:00 a.m.
So, this morning I'm going to check the press releases to see what you guys are all up to, and then I'm going to add a few training modules to the Activist's Guide Website, and then I think we're going to take off and go exploring.
In the meantime, I hope you're all having a wonderful weekend!
So, this morning I'm going to check the press releases to see what you guys are all up to, and then I'm going to add a few training modules to the Activist's Guide Website, and then I think we're going to take off and go exploring.
In the meantime, I hope you're all having a wonderful weekend!
Book is on sale, life is hectic - I love it!
Wow! I really meant to post the last few days - but the book went on sale, the shopping cart was messing up big time and didn't want to integrate with Paypal, I had some technical difficulties with the Website - basically, Murphy (of Murphy's Law) moved into my life and decided to stick around!
Anyway, tonight I've finally got time to catch my breath and feel like I can sit down without buzzers going off.
So, first things first: The Website still doesn't have a google rank, although now when you search for "Activist's Guide" on Google, we were number 3 when I last checked! Not too bad.
I've been posting some articles, training tools and resources as fast as I can get them up. Trust me - in two or three weeks, the Website is going to be amazing!
And I've been back in touch with some old friends. Like Ben Sheldon, who is putting together a "social networking site" for Americorps and VISTA members that I think you're going to love! Here's the announcement:
http://meetamericorps.com
MeetAmericorps.com allows anyone involved with national service to
easily create a profile and search for other people in their community
or across the country.
You can find service members:
* By location
* By organization
* By interest or service area
Once you've found someone, maybe a fellow alum, a volunteer doing
similar service, or even a neighbor you didn't know about, you can
easily contact them and start a conversation privately through email.
The goal of this website is to encourage interaction between
AmeriCorps and VISTA members beyond organizations and geography. A
well-connected volunteer is an effective volunteer. To learn more
visit http://meetamericorps.com/about
This is first official announcement of MeetAmeriCorps.com and we
encourage you to visit the website, register, and provide us feedback
on how we can improve the website and better meet your needs.
If you like the website and would be willing to promote it in your
organization or community, we have provided some simple outreach
materials: http://meetamericorps.com/outreach
Way to go Ben! I'm on my way over there now to check it out - I hope I'll see you there too!
Anyway, tonight I've finally got time to catch my breath and feel like I can sit down without buzzers going off.
So, first things first: The Website still doesn't have a google rank, although now when you search for "Activist's Guide" on Google, we were number 3 when I last checked! Not too bad.
I've been posting some articles, training tools and resources as fast as I can get them up. Trust me - in two or three weeks, the Website is going to be amazing!
And I've been back in touch with some old friends. Like Ben Sheldon, who is putting together a "social networking site" for Americorps and VISTA members that I think you're going to love! Here's the announcement:
http://meetamericorps.com
MeetAmericorps.com allows anyone involved with national service to
easily create a profile and search for other people in their community
or across the country.
You can find service members:
* By location
* By organization
* By interest or service area
Once you've found someone, maybe a fellow alum, a volunteer doing
similar service, or even a neighbor you didn't know about, you can
easily contact them and start a conversation privately through email.
The goal of this website is to encourage interaction between
AmeriCorps and VISTA members beyond organizations and geography. A
well-connected volunteer is an effective volunteer. To learn more
visit http://meetamericorps.com/about
This is first official announcement of MeetAmeriCorps.com and we
encourage you to visit the website, register, and provide us feedback
on how we can improve the website and better meet your needs.
If you like the website and would be willing to promote it in your
organization or community, we have provided some simple outreach
materials: http://meetamericorps.com/outreach
Way to go Ben! I'm on my way over there now to check it out - I hope I'll see you there too!
Monday, September 18, 2006
The book goes on sale tomorrow!
Wow! I'm really excited - I couldn't sleep at all last night. The book, "The Activist's Guide to Changing the World" goes on sale tomorrow. I'd read somewhere that having a book published is like giving birth - you do all this hard work, and your life changes while you're writing it - and then - it gets here - and you wonder if it's going to be an ugly baby...
Well, okay, that wasn't exactly what was said. I can't help it. I admit it, I'm nervous. I really want you to like the book. But, it's amazing to be done with it, and to know that it's finished and it's time for me to move on to something else.
Well, let me know what you think, okay? (But be gentle!)
Well, okay, that wasn't exactly what was said. I can't help it. I admit it, I'm nervous. I really want you to like the book. But, it's amazing to be done with it, and to know that it's finished and it's time for me to move on to something else.
Well, let me know what you think, okay? (But be gentle!)
Monday, September 11, 2006
Check This Out!
If you haven't used blogger lately, then you haven't used blogger! If you've been reading this blog over the weekend, you will have noticed that it's been a couple of different colors, it's been a couple of different styles - and now there are new labels added, to make it easier for you to find what you're looking for!
Blogger has gone Beta!
So far, I LOVE it! It's easy to use, it works great and, after going back in and adding labels to my posts, (I'm glad I only had 40 and not 400), I can say that I'm even more of a fan!
For the time being, I'm sticking with this one - these colors and this format. Let me know what you think. And if you don't already have a blogger account, get one!
Blogger has gone Beta!
So far, I LOVE it! It's easy to use, it works great and, after going back in and adding labels to my posts, (I'm glad I only had 40 and not 400), I can say that I'm even more of a fan!
For the time being, I'm sticking with this one - these colors and this format. Let me know what you think. And if you don't already have a blogger account, get one!
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Did you ever play a game called "telephone" when you were little?
Do you remember that game? It was usually played at parties when I was growing up. Everybody would sit or stand in a circle, and one person would whisper a "secret message" in the person's ear who was standing next to them...and that person would whisper to the next person, and so on and so on...
Today we have a new version of the game - it's called social networking. Places like "myspace", You Tube, even the badly maligned "friendster."
But it works on the same concept - I tell you something, you tell someone else who tells someone else, and so on and so on.
Does it work? I'm going to try an experiment to find out. Here's how: I've created a very unscientific poll on the Activist Guide Website. (You can find it here: http://www.activistguide.com/sept11.html ).
I ask the question - Did 9/11 have an effect on your life in terms of you wanting to make your mark or make a difference? Do you volunteer more now?
So, I'm inviting you to play the new version of telephone with me...go take the poll, and then tell just one person about it.
Pass it on...
Today we have a new version of the game - it's called social networking. Places like "myspace", You Tube, even the badly maligned "friendster."
But it works on the same concept - I tell you something, you tell someone else who tells someone else, and so on and so on.
Does it work? I'm going to try an experiment to find out. Here's how: I've created a very unscientific poll on the Activist Guide Website. (You can find it here: http://www.activistguide.com/sept11.html ).
I ask the question - Did 9/11 have an effect on your life in terms of you wanting to make your mark or make a difference? Do you volunteer more now?
So, I'm inviting you to play the new version of telephone with me...go take the poll, and then tell just one person about it.
Pass it on...
Progress - the blogs are listed
Well, that was fast - which proves these methods work, I guess! The blogs - even the wordpress one that I quit posting on a month or so ago - have both been indexed in the search engines.
Not the Website yet, and neither blog has a google pagerank. Plus, I haven't optimized for my keywords. But - still, not bad for 24 hours.
So - why is it important that you get started blogging and working on a content Website for your nonprofit organization?
Because you want people - and not just any people - you want the RIGHT people to find your site and take action.
It all goes back to strategy. (Or at least, the chapter in the book on "Harnessing the Power of the Internet" goes back to strategy). What are the top 3 reasons you want to drive "targeted" traffic to your Website?
For example, you might want to:
Then, every word you write needs to accomplish one of those three purposes.
And your next step is to begin optimizing your keywords - based on your strategy. That way, once people start doing a search for your keywords - they find you.
Pretty simple, right?
Well, guess what? There's a catch. If you do it wrong, one of two things could happen.
1. Nothing. Nobody notices, nobody comes, nobody does anything.
2. You could get banned from the search engines. It's called "black hat" SEO (remember SEO stands for "Search Engine Optimization"), and it's not only wrong, it's stupid. Why go to all that work, and take chances on getting your Website banned, when you can use "white hat" SEO, and go after the "long tail" searchers.
Well, more about that later. I'm going to go and start doing my keyword searching. And this afternoon, I've got to write my first press release. Wanna watch?
Not the Website yet, and neither blog has a google pagerank. Plus, I haven't optimized for my keywords. But - still, not bad for 24 hours.
So - why is it important that you get started blogging and working on a content Website for your nonprofit organization?
Because you want people - and not just any people - you want the RIGHT people to find your site and take action.
It all goes back to strategy. (Or at least, the chapter in the book on "Harnessing the Power of the Internet" goes back to strategy). What are the top 3 reasons you want to drive "targeted" traffic to your Website?
For example, you might want to:
- Inform your local community about your issues
- Recruit volunteers for an upcoming event
- Publicize your program, or attract donors
Then, every word you write needs to accomplish one of those three purposes.
And your next step is to begin optimizing your keywords - based on your strategy. That way, once people start doing a search for your keywords - they find you.
Pretty simple, right?
Well, guess what? There's a catch. If you do it wrong, one of two things could happen.
1. Nothing. Nobody notices, nobody comes, nobody does anything.
2. You could get banned from the search engines. It's called "black hat" SEO (remember SEO stands for "Search Engine Optimization"), and it's not only wrong, it's stupid. Why go to all that work, and take chances on getting your Website banned, when you can use "white hat" SEO, and go after the "long tail" searchers.
Well, more about that later. I'm going to go and start doing my keyword searching. And this afternoon, I've got to write my first press release. Wanna watch?
Saturday, September 09, 2006
So, where do you start getting traffic to your Website?
Okay, basically, there are some pretty simple things you can do. First of course, is getting links to your site. So, for example, if my blog was ranked or getting traffic, I'd put a link to the Website - http://www.activistguide.com
Or, vice versa - put a link to the blog from the Website. Unluckily, neither of them are known.
So, what I started doing instead is posting on some sites that are ranked. For example, I have a blog (okay, tonight was my first post) on "My Space". I added a link from there to here and to the Website.
Why "My Space"? If you remember from a post I did a while back, social bookmarking sites - myspace, U Tube and the like, are the places where people go to hang out, talk about their lives, their loves and (on U Tube right now) Lonelygirl 15...
So...if you've got an event, get somebody to tape it - and post the "movie" on U Tube. Create your own blog on My Space. Start getting the word out about your program, and your organization.
Or, vice versa - put a link to the blog from the Website. Unluckily, neither of them are known.
So, what I started doing instead is posting on some sites that are ranked. For example, I have a blog (okay, tonight was my first post) on "My Space". I added a link from there to here and to the Website.
Why "My Space"? If you remember from a post I did a while back, social bookmarking sites - myspace, U Tube and the like, are the places where people go to hang out, talk about their lives, their loves and (on U Tube right now) Lonelygirl 15...
So...if you've got an event, get somebody to tape it - and post the "movie" on U Tube. Create your own blog on My Space. Start getting the word out about your program, and your organization.
How To Get Your Blog or Website Listed on the Search Engines
Okay folks. In my book, "The Activist's Guide to Changing the World - for VISTA Volunteers" there's a chapter on "Harnessing the Power of the Internet". I give you some basic information about using blogs, RSS feeds and "white hat" SEO tools, to help you publicize your Websites, gain exposure for your programs and get the word out about what you're doing.
I've had some great teachers. And I've learned a lot. (I hope.) Why? Because it's time to put my money where my mouth is.
I'm in what is called the "prelaunch" stage of promoting the Website, and my book. Neither the blog or the Website are ranked yet, and they're not bringing any traffic.
So, I'm going to use the tactics I teach you in the book (and in some cases the book bonuses, written by experts in their fields), to see if I can get listed in the search engines and also, get the information out to the people I'm trying to reach - namely YOU.
And, I'm going to tell you what I'm doing and how I'm doing it. And together, we'll see if it works!
So if you want to get publicity for your program, your projects or your organization - stay tuned!
I've had some great teachers. And I've learned a lot. (I hope.) Why? Because it's time to put my money where my mouth is.
I'm in what is called the "prelaunch" stage of promoting the Website, and my book. Neither the blog or the Website are ranked yet, and they're not bringing any traffic.
So, I'm going to use the tactics I teach you in the book (and in some cases the book bonuses, written by experts in their fields), to see if I can get listed in the search engines and also, get the information out to the people I'm trying to reach - namely YOU.
And, I'm going to tell you what I'm doing and how I'm doing it. And together, we'll see if it works!
So if you want to get publicity for your program, your projects or your organization - stay tuned!
Whoo Hoo! Website is up!
Hi all,
I'm so excited about this I had to share! The Website is up and looking good. There are already some free resources you can download.
The name of the newsletter has been decided (Spotlight Ezine) and I've got the basic logo!
Plus, I'm going to do a ferature every month called "Spotlight On" - and I'll be featuring you and your organizations in it! That's right - you get all of this:
Yep, it's not going to cost you anything. Lots of great publicity, 0 cost.
Well, I've got lots of work to do - but hey, if you're just surfing and want to check out the site and give me your feedback, I'd appreciate it! Click here to go there~
I'm so excited about this I had to share! The Website is up and looking good. There are already some free resources you can download.
The name of the newsletter has been decided (Spotlight Ezine) and I've got the basic logo!
Plus, I'm going to do a ferature every month called "Spotlight On" - and I'll be featuring you and your organizations in it! That's right - you get all of this:
- A press release talking about you, your organization and your projects
- A page on my Website, linking to yours
- A "call to action"
- Entries in the "What's Happening" Event Calendar
- A 15 minute audio interview with a MP3 audio file for you to post on your Website, use as a recruiting tool or for just about anything else you can think of
- Publish an article in the newsletter which will also be posted in our RSS feed and stay online forever
- Be featured as the monthly expert on your issues in our blog and on our forum
- Plus lots more!
Yep, it's not going to cost you anything. Lots of great publicity, 0 cost.
Well, I've got lots of work to do - but hey, if you're just surfing and want to check out the site and give me your feedback, I'd appreciate it! Click here to go there~
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Share your story, gain publicity, make a difference!
from now through September 11th, we will be promoting a series of activities under the theme, “Serve to Remember. Remember to Serve.” We encourage you to join in this national call to service by finding ways to tie planned activities and events to this theme. Visit http://www.nationalservice.gov/pdf/katrina_project_toolkit.pdf to access the “Serve to Remember” toolkit, which contains a variety of tips, ideas, and templates to help you generate awareness and media interest at the state and local level.
Below is a list of the activities taking place at the national level:
- Gulf Coast Tour, August 28-30: Members of the Corporation’s Board of Directors, along with members of the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation, will tour a series of national service projects in Louisiana and Mississippi to gain a better understanding of our programs’ unique role and impact, and the continued need for volunteers in the region.
- National Service Anniversary Report: On Monday, August 28, the Corporation will release its one-year report on the contributions of national service programs to relief and recovery efforts. To date, more than 36,000 national service participants have contributed more than 1.6 million hours of service to relief and recovery efforts, and leveraged an additional 92,000 community volunteers.
- Media Outreach: The Office of Public Affairs is reaching out to national print and broadcast media to help ensure that the “volunteer story” is told within the media coverage of these two anniversaries. To help garner coverage, we are promoting the following:
- Service Projects – Through our earlier request for information, we have identified nearly 100 service projects or commemorative events that you have planned around the Katrina or 9/11 anniversary. We have been promoting these events through media advisories as part of a nationwide serve-a-thon that pays tribute to the compassionate response that took place in the wake of both Katrina and 9/11. You can promote your local service project as part of this national effort.
- Research – Several pieces of research examine the effects disasters have on Americans’ civic behaviors. A compendium of related research is included in the toolkit mentioned above.
- Compelling Stories of Service – Through your earlier submissions, we have been identifying unique perspectives and spokespeople to help demonstrate national services’ role in disaster response and community rebuilding. While we have identified several volunteer stories related to Katrina, we are still looking for stories related to 9/11. If you know of an individual who decided to volunteer or join a national service program as a result or 9/11, please send their name, contact information, and a brief description of their compelling story to smaynard@cns.gov.
If you have specific questions related to these “Serve to Remember” ideas, please feel free to contact one of the following Corporation staff:
- Siobhan Dugan at sdugan@cns.gov
- Sandy Scott at sscott@cns.gov
- Shannon Maynard at smaynard@cns.gov
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
