Summer Program Associate - AmeriCorps VISTA

PLEASE NOTE: This position is part of the Ameri Corps VISTA program.  to learn more about Ameri Corps and how Ameri Corps VISTA service differs from a traditional full-time job.

Job Title: Summer Program Associate - Ameri Corps VISTA

Reports to: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Department: Education

The Center for Arts-Inspired Learning (CAL) programs address the needs of youth in under-resourced Northeast Ohio communities, which often lack access to paid workforce development experiences that build transferable skills, mentorship connections, and college/career readiness. Employers report difficulty finding candidates with communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Without structured opportunities, youth face barriers to postsecondary access and long-term economic mobility. Art Works addresses this gap through paid arts-based apprenticeships that integrate workforce training and social‑emotional learning.

This VISTA summer role will help CAL to sustain this program and continue to address this challenge for those we serve in Northeast Ohio. This summer marks the 20th Anniversary of Art Works, with expanded community programming and alumni engagement.

The Summer Program Associate will: Support program coordination and workshops, Assist with evaluation and data collection, Assist in Alumni communication and management, Help coordinate the enhanced 20th Anniversary Art Works Live! Celebration. We seek candidates committed to educational equity, workforce development, and youth leadership, with strong communication and organizational skills. The 20th Anniversary of Art Works provides a compelling opportunity to attract candidates motivated by impact and legacy.

• 40 hours per week for 10 weeks
• Occasional evening and weekend coverage may be required based on program needs
• Hybrid virtual and on-site work schedule

• Compensation: A modest living allowance of $957.46 biweekly is provided throughout the 10 weeks of service to cover basic expenses.
• End-of-Service Award: Upon successful completion, members can choose between a Segal Ameri Corps Education Award ($1,194.71 to pay for college or student loans) or a cash stipend ($230.00).
• Professional Development: Participants gain valuable nonprofit experience, networking opportunities, and skills in capacity building and project management.

Final date to receive applications: April 30, 2026

• Support coordination and implementation of the Summer Art Works session, including workshops, service-learning, and professional development activities for 50–80 youth.
• Assist with evaluation and data collection to track youth outcomes, alumni engagement, and program impact.
• Help manage alumni communications, reconnecting former apprentices as mentors, speakers, and success stories.
• Support planning and execution of the 20th Anniversary Art Works Live! Celebration, including youth showcases, alumni recognition, and community partner acknowledgments.
• Collaborate with teaching artists, program managers, and community partners to ensure smooth program delivery and meaningful youth experiences.
• Participate in training, supervision, and reflection opportunities to develop skills in youth engagement, workforce development, and nonprofit operations.

Commitment to Arts Education for Underserved Youth:

• A passion for arts education and a strong desire to provide equitable access to the arts for children in poverty
• Recognizing the arts as a powerful tool for breaking cycles of disadvantage and promoting academic success

Strong Communication

Skills:

• Effective written and verbal communication skills for outreach and engagement with community partners

Organizational

Skills:

• Detail‑oriented with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently

Technical

Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel

Team‑Oriented & Flexible:

• Ability to collaborate with team members to expand CAL’s reach
• Proactively assist senior staff in advancing CAL’s poverty alleviation goals through community‑based arts programming

• Must apply and be…