In our VISTA Spotlight, our OneStar AmeriCorps VISTA members share in their own words about the transformative experience of serving with nonprofits and agencies in Texas working to eliminate poverty.
As I prepared to graduate from Louisiana State University with a BA in Political Science and African and African American Studies, I didn’t truly know what I wanted to do with my gap year. I investigated various programs but all I knew was I wanted to give back to my community. That’s when I came across AmeriCorps VISTA.
My uncle told me all about the wonderful work they do, and the educational benefits members receive. As a recent graduate looking to attend graduate school soon, this piqued my interest. The Assistant Director of Campus Life/LSU Food Pantry reached out to me about their own AmeriCorps program right here at LSU. Since I had worked with him for 2 years, he thought I would be a great fit. He gave me the whole run down and even let me speak with the current AmeriCorps member. While this opportunity seemed perfect, I knew I wanted to come back home to serve.
After graduating, I went back home and applied to a few AmeriCorps VISTA programs including Fifth Ward Community Redevelopment Corporation in Houston, TX. FWCRC seemed like the best choice after researching all the work they do such as increasing affordable housing, providing financial coaching, and continuing the arts and cultural legacy of Fifth Ward. My VISTA Leader, Madison, served as a guiding light for my transition into VISTA life answering every question under the sun.
FWCRC has been a welcoming place for me to grow as a young professional and prepare for graduate school. As I’ve served, I’ve seen how my previous work at the Houston Mayor’s Office prepared me to come into the economic development sector. I’ve seen many familiar faces throughout my service which relieves me and helps me continue those relationships.
It took some time for me to get used to the 9 to 5 after years in school, but my colleagues have helped me see that there is so much I can do outside of the job. Even though not every day is super exciting, and I could be stuck behind a screen, I live for the days that I get to see happy community members at events and community meetings! This experience has been a great transition into the “real world” after graduating and has allowed me to go into graduate school with perspective.
Halfway done with my year, I am saddened to be leaving my site in the summer, but I am proud and relieved to know that I will always have connections back at FWCRC.