NeighborWorks Way Finders Community Outreach VISTA

2026-27 Neighbor Works Way Finders Community Outreach VISTA

Way Finders is committed to advancing housing stability and economic mobility for low-income individuals and families across Western Massachusetts. The Community Outreach VISTA will strengthen systems that increase resident participation, expand leadership opportunities, and improve access to community resources in Springfield and Holyoke. This VISTA member will build sustainable outreach, communications, volunteer engagement, and partnership systems to support long‑term impact. The role focuses on empowering residents to actively shape their communities by enhancing leadership programming.

Individuals must have a commitment to serving communities experiencing poverty; strong communication and organizational skills, an ability to manage multiple projects and comfortable working with people from varied backgrounds and communities. The VISTA will support coordination efforts for resident‑led coalitions.

The VISTA member will support community coalition development by creating and managing systems and materials for community engagement, including intake forms, presentations, surveys, and developing and maintaining systems for tracking participation and program outcome. They will assist coalition initiatives in Holyoke and Springfield by supporting the coordination of meetings, supporting outreach strategies, and awareness campaigns through social media, community engagement and outreach.

The member will help develop and update training materials for a Resident Leadership Program, assess community resources, and identify opportunities for collaboration. Responsibilities also include improving communication across partner organizations, researching best practices, and recommending enhancements to strengthen programs, systems, and cross‑sector partnerships.

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

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

• Neighborhood Revitalization
• Community and Economic Development
• Housing
• Community Outreach

• General Skills
• Communications
• Leadership
• Team Work
• Recruitment
• Writing/Editing
• Community Organization
• Social Services
• Public Speaking
• Computers/Technology
• Conflict Resolution
• First Aid