UCM VISTA Policy and Program Development Specialist

UCM VISTA Policy and Program Development Specialist

Join United Congregations of Metro-East (UCM) as an Ameri Corps VISTA Policy and Program Development Specialist! This service opportunity focuses on helping UCM expand the “Can We Breathe” campaign by supporting community-informed environmental education and building internal systems that improve sustainability. The VISTA will conduct community assessments, assist in developing educational materials, and help formalize partnerships to support outreach efforts in St.

Clair County. The position includes drafting internal documents and background summaries using publicly available data to support organizational decision-making and education. The VISTA will not participate in any form of advocacy, lobbying, or policy proposal delivery. Instead, they will strengthen UCM’s internal infrastructure and build tools that enable better communication, training, and fundraising capacity across the team. This role is ideal for individuals who are detail-oriented, systems-minded, and passionate about improving public access to environmental and health information.

By the end of the term, the VISTA will leave behind systems and resources that support UCM’s long-term ability to serve low-income communities in a clear and compliant way.

• Policy and Program Development: Conduct community needs assessments and support the development of long-term strategic plans to guide UCM’s environmental health initiatives. Create internal documents that summarize research and community input to inform future programming.
• Partnership Building: Collaborate with local organizations and agencies to strengthen community partnerships. Assist in formalizing joint efforts through written agreements, shared goals, and resource coordination.
• Fund Development: Research and track grant opportunities and other funding sources. Support staff in preparing fundraising plans and organizing outreach strategies to improve financial sustainability.
• Program Evaluation & Materials Development: Create tools to assess the effectiveness of programs and develop training and outreach materials to support consistent program implementation and staff development.

• Childcare assistance if eligible
• Training
• Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend
• Health Coverage*
• Living Allowance
• Relocation Allowance

For details about Ameri Corps VISTA healthcare benefits, please visit .

• Permits attendance at school during off hours.
• Car recommended.
• Permits working at another job during off hours.

• Community Outreach
• Environment
• Community and Economic Development
• Education

• Law
• Computers/Technology
• Writing/Editing
• Environment
• General Skills
• Team Work
• Youth Development
• Communications

Ameri Corps VISTA

01/12/2026 - 07/26/2026

Full Time

Some college

Minimum: 18

Illinois

English

From 12/16/2025 To 12/20/2026

Darnell Tingle
13 Vieux Carre Dr
East Saint Louis IL 62203

darnelltingle
https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

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