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.
My Name is Amy Mehaffey, and I am the Marketing and Communications VISTA serving with Collegiate Edu-Nation. When I was asked to create marketing materials for the TASA MidWinter Conference, I knew it would be a project that would challenge me. Armed with ideas, Canva, and a hefty dose of caffeine, I poured myself into the work. Every design, from booth materials to flyers, became a canvas for CEN’s story–and a way to connect them to industry leaders. Creating something visually compelling isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about communicating impact, resilience, and hope. With each design, I appreciated more about CEN’s vision and the power of clear, intentional communication. As the event approached, I could see the pieces coming together, each element helping to shine a spotlight on the vital role of rural education. It’s moments like these that make me proud of my role and excited to see where my design skills might take me next.