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National Compassion Fund to Distribute Victim Funds

06/20/2022 |
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A version of this press release was originally distributed by the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund Steering Committee.

UVALDE, TEX. — Robb Elementary School victims’ support effort receives backing from leading national authority on mass-casualty crime. The National Compassion Fund (NCF), a subsidiary of the National Center for Victims of Crime, will assist a local Steering Committee in developing and implementing a fund distribution plan for the victims of the tragedy on May 24, 2022. The philanthropic effort will be called the “Uvalde Together We Rise Fund,” and will provide direct financial support to the families of those impacted that day.

NCF was founded in collaboration with parents and family members from mass casualty events such as September 11th, Columbine, Aurora, and Newtown. NCF has administered 22 of these funds nationwide.

A service agreement with NCF was established by the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country and the San Antonio Area Foundation to meet all service fees associated with the contract allowing 100% of donations to go directly to the established victim base.

NCF helps survivors navigate the process in a respectful, dignified, victim-centered manner. The organization also preserves the intent of donors who want to know that their gift is going directly to those harmed and will not be used for other purposes.

“Our hearts go out to the entire Uvalde community,” said Jeffrey Dion, NCF Executive Director.  “We are honored to join forces with Uvalde to increase charitable giving and help meet the overwhelming needs of the victims. We stand in solidarity with all of those impacted by this senseless violence.”

A volunteer Steering Committee will be responsible for setting the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund distribution policy with guidance from NCF. The Steering Committee members are:

  • Veronica Conoley, PhD
  • Erika Garcia, M.D. (Vice Chair)
  • Mickey Gerdes (Chair)
  • Sheri Rutledge
  • Bianca Spies, LPC
  • Virginia Sosa, OD
  • Edward Trevino
  • Julio Valdez
  • Anita Busch, President of VictimsFirst, co-founder of NCF, and currently serves as a Mass Violence Relief Specialist and Advisor to the Fund and recommended by NCF.
  • Paola Bautista, who was a survivor of the shooting at the Route 91 Concert in Las Vegas and recommended by NCF.

The National Compassion Fund has expertise on how victims are compensated for loss, will advise the Steering Committee, administer the victim application and vetting processes, and coordinate the distribution of proceeds from multiple fundraising campaigns.

The Steering Committee will ensure that the voices of the victims are heard, as they are integral to the distribution process. Experts with experience in mass-casualty survivor compensation and the needs of crime victims will also be asked to serve in a volunteer capacity. The Steering Committee’s work will be transparent and will inform the public of its deliberations in the distribution of funds.

Within the next two weeks, additional details will be provided about the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund’s process; the Steering Committee’s first working session is Wednesday, June 22, 2022. The Steering Committee will receive public input via town hall events to be scheduled in the near future and will keep the community updated about how the funds will be delivered.

At the time of this release, over $13-million in donations have been collected for victims through five primary accounts:

All of these funds will be pooled into the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund for distribution by the Steering Committee to victim families and others directly affected.

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About National Compassion Fund

The National Compassion Fund is a subsidiary of the National Center for Victims of Crime, the nation’s leading resource and advocacy organization for crime victims and those who serve them. The National Center for Victims of Crime is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and an authority on how victims are compensated for loss. The National Compassion Fund has led distributions to victims of mass events in Fort Hood, Chattanooga, Orlando, Las Vegas, El Paso, and Parkland, Florida.

About First State Bank of Uvalde

Founded in 1907, First State Bank of Uvalde has played an essential role in Uvalde’s growth and development. The Bank manages approximately $2-billion in assets and has locations Dimmit and Real counties in addition to its Uvalde County branches. The Bank is collecting donations for victims through the Robb School Memorial Fund. These donations will be pooled with the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund for distribution. To donate visit First State Bank of Uvalde , call 830-356-2273 or mail a payment to P.O. Box 1908, Uvalde, Texas 78802.

About OneStar Foundation

OneStar Foundation, based in Austin, is a nonprofit focused on strengthening Texas communities by creating pathways for individuals and organizations to engage, connect and accelerate their impact. It advances service and volunteering as effective solutions to our state’s toughest social challenges. As a nonprofit born from state government, OneStar carries out its unique mission with direction and guidance from the Office of the Texas Governor. OneStar Foundation has been supporting Uvalde by serving as the public charity receiving donations for the Robb School Memorial Fund in coordination with First State Bank of Uvalde. Based on the local steering committee’s direction, these funds will be pooled with the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund for distribution.

About Texas Bankers Foundation – Uvalde Community Response Fund

The Texas Bankers Association (TBA) and Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) have united to establish the Uvalde Community Response Fund under the auspices of the Texas Bankers Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit that provides disaster relief, financial literacy, and educational support. Donations are being collected from individual banks, their employees and customers as well as major national brands.  These donations will be pooled with the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund for distribution.  Individual donations to the Uvalde Community Response Fund may be made via the Texas Bankers Foundation HERE.  For corporate contributions, contact Foundation Director Jocelyn Carby.

About Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country

The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, based in Kerrville, is a public charitable foundation that makes grants to nonprofits and awards academic scholarships in 10 counties: including Bandera, Blanco, Edwards, Gillespie, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Mason, Real, and Uvalde. The Community Foundation is collecting donations for survivors through its Uvalde Survivors Fund. These donations will be pooled with the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund for distribution. To donate, visit Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country  or mail a payment to 241 Earl Garrett Street, Kerrville, Texas 78028.

About San Antonio Area Foundation

The San Antonio Area Foundation (SAAFdn) has served as the city’s community-giving headquarters for nearly 60 years, growing to become one of the top 20 community foundations in the nation. The Area Foundation serves as San Antonio’s most trusted and impactful philanthropic partner, managing more than 500 charitable funds nearly $1 billion in assets. The Area Foundation is collecting donations for survivors through its Uvalde Survivors Fund. These donations will be pooled with the Uvalde Together We Rise Fund for distribution. To donate, visit www.saafdn.org/Uvalde  or mail a payment to 303 Pearl Parkway, Suite 114, San Antonio, Texas 78215.

OneStar awarded $32.7 million in AmeriCorps funding for Texas

06/15/2022 |
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Record investment for national service in Texas will support more than 3,600 AmeriCorps members to meet local community needs

AUSTIN – OneStar announced today that Texas received $32.7 million from AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism. This funding will be distributed to 50 organizations across the state to engage 3,611 AmeriCorps members within in local communities.

This year’s historic funding represents the largest ever investment in national service in Texas and includes money from AmeriCorps’ $1 billion American Rescue Plan allocation, which supports efforts to respond to the public health, education and economic crises caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding also comprises grant awards for Public Health AmeriCorps, a partnership between AmeriCorps and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced this year to support the recruitment, training, and development of a new generation of public health leaders.

“This incredible investment in national service is a testament to the impact of our AmeriCorps members and the essential role they play in helping Texas communities thrive and build resilience,” said Chris Bugbee, OneStar President & CEO. “AmeriCorps gives Texans the opportunity to put their values into action and make a difference while also developing civic and leadership skills to last a lifetime.”

In the coming year, AmeriCorps members will address pressing social challenges in Texas through a variety of service opportunities. For example, AmeriCorps members may serve as tutors in low-income schools, advance college access for first-generation college students, train adults in job readiness skills, distribute food to children and families in need, provide support for those experiencing homelessness, respond to Texas communities recovering from disaster and much more.

The $32.7 million in funding, administered by OneStar, will be distributed to the following organizations operating in Texas. This year’s portfolio of grantees includes 11 inaugural AmeriCorps programs and seven recipients of Planning Grants, which support organizations interested in exploring and launching new AmeriCorps programs in the near future.

  • Amarillo Independent School District
  • American YouthWorks
  • Austin Achieve Public Schools
  • Big Thought
  • Boys & Girls Club of Pharr*
  • Breakthrough Central Texas
  • ChildFund International USA
  • City of Houston*
  • City of San Antonio*
  • City Year Dallas
  • City Year San Antonio
  • CitySquare
  • College Possible
  • Collegiate Edu-Nation*
  • Communities In Schools of Central Texas
  • Communities In Schools of North Texas
  • Communities In Schools of San Antonio
  • Creative Action*
  • Equal Heart
  • Fort Bend Family Health Center*
  • Front Steps
  • Generation Teach*
  • Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas
  • Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas*
  • Imagine Art
  • Interfaith Ministries of Greater Houston*
  • Legacy Community Health Services
  • Literacy Coalition of Central Texas
  • National College Advising Corps
  • Project Transformation
  • Reading Partners
  • Relay Graduate School of Education
  • Sewa International
  • Student Conservation Association*
  • Teach For America
  • Texas Network of Youth Services
  • Travis County
  • United Way of El Paso County
  • University of North Texas
  • University of Texas at Austin
  • University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
  • Vanguard Academy*
  • West Texas A&M University

Empty heading

Planning Grants

  • Campus Compact
  • City of Killeen
  • CLC Inc.
  • Health360 Inc.
  • Homeward Bound Inc.
  • Texas Association of Regional Councils
  • Texas Southmost College District

* New AmeriCorps Texas program

AmeriCorps State and National, a federal-state partnership with a central role for governor-appointed state service commissions like OneStar, develops and implements state-specific national service programs. These grants allow organizations to recruit, train and supervise AmeriCorps members who provide services in the areas of education, disaster response & recovery, health, environmental stewardship, economic opportunity and support for veterans & military families.

In addition to the grant funding, AmeriCorps will provide an additional $14.1 million in Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards for AmeriCorps members in Texas funded by these grants. After completing a full term of service, AmeriCorps members receive an award of approximately $6,500 that they can use for tuition at eligible schools and educational programs or qualified student loan repayment.

Programs across the state are currently recruiting AmeriCorps members to serve in the coming year. AmeriCorps Texas members may be eligible to receive benefits including a living allowance, health care, childcare, and the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award. Visit volunteertx.org to search and apply for AmeriCorps positions in Texas.

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About AmeriCorps

AmeriCorps, the federal agency for volunteerism and national service, provides opportunities for Americans to serve their country domestically, address the nation’s most pressing challenges, improve lives and communities, and strengthen civic engagement. Each year, the agency places more than 250,000 AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in intensive service roles; and empowers millions more to serve as long-term, short-term, or one-time volunteers. Learn more at AmeriCorps.gov.

About OneStar

OneStar strengthens Texas communities by creating pathways for individuals and organizations to engage, connect and accelerate their impact. We advance service and volunteering as effective solutions to our state’s toughest social challenges. We are recognized as a statewide voice for the Texas nonprofit sector and a respected partner to foundations, state agencies and the business community. Born from state government in 1974, we carry out our mission with direction and guidance from the Office of the Texas Governor. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.

OneStar in support of the Robb School Memorial Fund | Donate Now | Administered by First State Bank of Uvalde

Donate now to support the Uvalde community

05/26/2022 |
UPDATE: OneStar is no longer accepting donations to the Robb School Memorial Fund, in accordance with protocols developed in partnership with survivors and the local community. If you are interested in exploring other ways to support the Uvalde community, please email donate@onestarfoundation.org.

OneStar joins our fellow Texans in grief and disbelief at the horrific loss at Robb Elementary School this week. We are heartbroken at the innocent lives lost and trauma endured. Our hearts are with the students, families, faculty, volunteers, and the whole Uvalde community who have been forever impacted.

Accompanying our condolences is an opportunity to take action to support our neighbors in Uvalde. In partnership with the Uvalde CISD, First State Bank of Uvalde has created the Robb School Memorial Fund to assist the families and community affected by this tragedy. Click here to learn how your donations will be distributed to provide direct support to victims.

Here are ways you can give to support this local fund.

Donate by credit card

Visit OneStar’s Donate page and select Robb School Memorial Fund in the donation options. 100% of donations received by OneStar will be given directly to the Robb School Memorial Fund.

(Note: Due to heavy traffic on our website, you may encounter technical difficulties or slow loading times. If you are unable to submit a credit card payment, we encourage you to donate via OneStar’s PayPal Giving Fund.)

Donate by PayPal

Click here to make a donation via OneStar’s PayPal Giving Fund. 100% of donations received by OneStar will be given directly to the Robb School Memorial Fund, and PayPal covers all transaction fees.

Donate by Zelle®

Make an online donation via Zelle®, available on most banking apps. When recipient information is requested, please enter the following:
  • First Name: Robb
  • Last Name: School
  • Email: robbschoolmemorialfund@gmail.com

Donate by check

Make all checks payable to the Robb School Memorial Fund. Checks can be dropped off at any First State Bank branch location or mailed to PO Box 1908, Uvalde, TX 78802.

Donate by phone

For questions or to make a donation by phone to the Robb School Memorial Fund, please call (830) 356-2273.

If you would like to donate via wire transfer/ACH or give stock, please email donate@onestarfoundation.org, and we will respond promptly with transfer instructions.

Four principles for enhancing AmeriCorps member recruitment | AmeriCorps Recruitment Institute

04/26/2022 |

The key to a successful AmeriCorps program starts with finding people who have the skills & commitment to “get things done” and are ready to take action on issues facing Texas communities. Serving with with AmeriCorps is a valuable, life-changing experience, but lack of awareness or an unfocused strategy can make recruiting members a challenge.

This spring, OneStar hosted the AmeriCorps Recruitment Institute to equip national service programs operating in Texas with best practices at all stages of member recruitment, with a specific focus on developing a diverse talent pool and increasing local partnerships. Delivered via four virtual interactive workshops, the AmeriCorps Recruitment Institute built a solid foundation for recruitment planning and empowered participants to develop a customized framework tailored to their unique recruitment needs. While each program requires a distinct approach, here are a few key principles we learned for laying the groundwork for a strong recruitment strategy:

  • Begin with the end in mind. Based on historical data, have a clear target of how many individuals you need at each stage of the prospect journey and deeply understand who your desired audience is.
  • Time and resources are finite. Be strategic in what types of recruitment activities you participate in and ensure you define what success looks like when engaging in them.
  • Don’t let your messaging get stale. Each interaction, whether in-person or through an email, should be aligned to the individual you are trying to attract. Practice your elevator pitch or get feedback on your written messages from the members in your programs to evaluate their effectiveness.
  • Create an equitable screening process by being transparent with candidates about what they can expect and set them up for success at each stage. Ensure your interview is free of personal bias by using a set of competency-aligned questions with standard rubrics.

Texas communities are stronger because of dedicated individuals committing to a term of service. You can support building momentum for AmeriCorps in Texas, by promoting AmeriCorps opportunities and making connections within your network — check out sample social media posts and messaging in the AmeriCorps Values: What’s at your CORE? campaign toolkit! You can learn more about serving in AmeriCorps here, and find and apply for all current AmeriCorps position openings in Texas here.

Special thanks to to the Schultz Family Foundation for advancing national service as a pathway of opportunity and supporting the AmeriCorps Recruitment Institute through the National Service Challenge grant!

Nominations now open for the 39th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards

04/20/2022 |
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A version of this press release was originally posted here by the Office of the Texas Governor.

Governor’s Volunteer Awards honor those who have made a difference through service across Texas

AUSTIN — Just in time for Global Volunteer Month, nominations are now open for the 39th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards. The Governor’s Volunteer Awards are administered by OneStar Foundation and are an opportunity for the state of Texas to honor the exemplary service and volunteerism of individuals and organizations making a significant impact in communities across Texas even as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded.

“Promoting volunteerism and service throughout Texas is my top priority,” said Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott. “Greg and I are inspired by the organizations and individuals across Texas who are making a difference in their communities, and we are honored to recognize them through the Governor’s Volunteer Awards. The true strength of the Lone Star State is in our people, and nothing brings us more joy than celebrating the spirit of service that is a hallmark of being Texan.”

Nominations for the awards are open in nine categories:

  • Governor’s Lifetime Volunteer Achievement Award
  • First Lady’s Youth Volunteer Rising Star Award
  • Volunteer of the Year Award
  • Volunteer Family of the Year Award
  • Corporate Volunteering Champion Award
  • Service-Learning Champion Award
  • Innovation in Volunteerism Award
  • Excellence in Disaster Volunteerism Award
  • National Service “Make a Difference” Award

For descriptions of the award categories or to nominate an individual or organization, visit onestarfoundation.org/governors-volunteer-awards.

A list of last year’s 2021 Governor’s Volunteer Award winners can be found at onestarfoundation.org/first-lady-cecilia-abbott-onestar-announce-2021-governors-volunteer-awards-recipients. (Previous award winners may be available for media interviews upon request.)

“As Texas communities address the needs that have emerged in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, nonprofits are more dependent than ever on the generosity of volunteers,” said Chris Bugbee, President & CEO of OneStar Foundation. “We are grateful to Texas Governor Greg Abbott and First Lady Cecilia Abbott for their enduring commitment to promoting service and volunteering to strengthen and uplift every community in our great state.”

The National COVID-19 Community Impact Survey conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank in August 2021 found that nearly 70 percent of the nonprofits surveyed experienced an increased demand for their services compared to pre-pandemic levels. When needs increase, volunteers stand in the gap to address the growing and evolving issues facing local communities. However, surveys found that total volunteers declined by 33 percent on average in 2020, with nonprofits in rural areas experiencing the largest declines. This has resulted in challenges for nonprofits relying on volunteer resources. Meanwhile, 40 percent of these community organizations experienced a decline in staffing levels.

“The Governor’s Volunteer Awards offer a unique opportunity to honor the individuals and organizations that took action in their communities when they were needed most, despite the challenges of the pandemic,” says Bugbee. “They set an example for others to give back in their own communities and show us what’s possible when we work together. Just look around you, and you’ll find that volunteer heroes can come from anywhere. We hope to inspire all Texans to consider how you can make a difference through service.”

Nominations will close Friday July 29, 2022. Awardees will be honored during next year’s Global Volunteer Month in April 2023 at an evening reception at the Governor’s Mansion. For more information visit onestarfoundation.org/governors-volunteer-awards.

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About OneStar

OneStar strengthens Texas communities by creating pathways for individuals and organizations to engage, connect and accelerate their impact. We advance service and volunteering as effective solutions to our state’s toughest social challenges. We are recognized as a statewide voice for the Texas nonprofit sector and a respected partner to foundations, state agencies and the business community. As a nonprofit born from state government, we carry out our unique mission with direction and guidance from the Office of the Texas Governor. Learn more at onestarfoundation.org.

 

Celebrating the recipients of the 2020 & 2021 Governor’s Volunteer Awards

04/20/2022 |

To commemorate National Volunteer Week and Global Volunteer Month, OneStar was delighted to honor past recipients of the Governor’s Volunteers Awards with a special reception hosted by Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott at the Texas Governor’s Mansion on April 19.

Due to COVID-19 public health concerns, awardees from 2020 and 2021 were recognized in online Zoom-based ceremonies. After two years of virtual recognition, we appreciated the opportunity to physically gather with our inspiring awardees and celebrate their extraordinary achievements in person. Our thanks to Mrs. Abbott and Texas Governor Greg Abbott for their continued support of volunteerism in Texas! View photos from the event here.

Governor’s Volunteer Awards honor the exemplary service & volunteerism of individuals & organizations making a significant impact in communities across Texas. Our most recent winners in particular have exhibited an enduring commitment to service in extraordinary circumstances and rose to the challenge of meeting exceptional community needs. We extend our gratitude and congratulations to these inspiring award recipients!

“Our award winners are the people that take action in your communities when you are needed most, with many of you serving despite the challenges of the pandemic,” said Chris Bugbee, OneStar President & CEO. “You truly are incredible, and your personal volunteerism, or the programs you run that harness other volunteers – your stories are helping us to inspire others to get back out there to volunteer and serve.”

Do you know volunteers who deserve statewide recognition for their exemplary service to Texas communities? We are now accepting nominations for the 39th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards!

Governor's Volunteer Awards Reception Celebrating 2020 & 2021 Award Recipients

“AmeriCorps completely reshaped my concept of what it takes to be part of a solution to a societal problem” | AmeriCorps Week 2022

03/18/2022 |
This AmeriCorps Week, March 13-19, we invited OneStar staff who served with AmeriCorps in Texas to share their experiences and words of wisdom. We are so grateful to all AmeriCorps members and alums who made a commitment to serve and have contributed their time, passion, and skills to strengthening Texas communities. OneStar is a proud Employer of National Service!

Vanessa Gutierrez has completed two terms of service with AmeriCorps: first serving in an early childhood literacy program with Jumpstart in Washington, then returning to her home state of Texas to serve with Front Steps to support shelter case management for those experiencing homelessness. 

Vanessa’s AmeriCorps experience catalyzed a diverse career in direct client service in the for-profit and nonprofit sectors. In addition to her recent work in the local tech industry, she previously supported the foster-to-adopt program at Amara in the state of Washington and provided supportive services as a case manager with Front Steps at the Austin Resource Center for the Homeless. She now serves as a Program Officer with OneStar to promote the development and administration of AmeriCorps Texas.

What made you decide to join AmeriCorps?

I think everyone who has the means, access, and opportunity to serve with AmeriCorps should make that commitment. It really gives you insight into how community-based programs and nonprofits work. As a member, you get the opportunity to be a direct part of the solution to a variety of society’s major issues. 

I personally joined my first term of AmeriCorps service to gain experience working with children. I knew I already had an interest in social work when I started my college career. I had just ended my work study term working for a local adoption agency, and I wanted to explore what it was like to work directly with children. As a sociology major, I was learning a lot about inequities in the world, and I deeply wanted to do the work. AmeriCorps gave me that opportunity—twice!

How did AmeriCorps affect your perspective on service and your community? What insights did you gain about your community through AmeriCorps?

AmeriCorps completely reshaped my concept of what it takes to be part of a solution to a societal problem. Starting my service as a very independent passionate person with a desire to change the world, I soon realized that this experience was not about me and my search for self-fulfillment. I left my terms of service truly understanding just how important it is to work together to create systems change and gained insight into the power of the collective.

Do you have a notable memory from your time in AmeriCorps that illustrates the impact service has had on you?

One of my proudest memories was gaining an understanding of the value of one-on-one time with students and cultural competency in the classroom. During my first term of service, I was able to serve as a teaching aid for a classroom of over 30 pre-kindergarten students who faced a variety of obstacles that were impacting their progress in literacy. Because I was able to give the students individualized attention, I learn that one of my students never spoke because he only verbally communicated in Spanish, that one of the students learned and communicated differently because he presented signs of autism, and that one of my students struggled with aggression because this was the way her family communicated at home. As an AmeriCorps member, I had the capacity to devote one-on-one time to each of the students I served, and because of this, I was able to be a small part of what helped them reach their reading goals. The most joyous time was seeing each one of my students cross the stage with pride at their pre-K graduations in their little caps and gowns.

What skills or experiences did you gain during your AmeriCorps service that you use in your current career?

I gained several skills during my AmeriCorps terms that I use daily in my current career. I learned the value of collaboration and teamwork, the importance of strong communication skills with my AmeriCorps cohort and site supervisor, and ultimately just how pertinent self-care is when serving others. I continue to work towards improving each of these skills daily, and I am so grateful that I had so much support from my site teams and supervisors when learning these lessons in AmeriCorps. I do not believe that I would have had access to that caliber of wisdom and support had I just jumped into this career without serving with AmeriCorps first.

What advice would you give to AmeriCorps members to make the most of their service experience?

My advice to members is to talk to and network with as many people as you can, and to say yes to any opportunity that arises. Being in AmeriCorps puts you in a unique position where you can explore a variety of careers or interests with training wheels on. As a member, I had an entire network of people who were going through similar experiences as me, and I always appreciated the ability to learn and experiment. Remain steadfast and remember that you are not alone—you are a piece of a larger network of passionate folks who are also working toward a solution. 

“I wanted to wake up every day knowing the work I was doing was making a difference” | AmeriCorps Week 2022

03/16/2022 |
This AmeriCorps Week, March 13-19, we invited OneStar staff who served with AmeriCorps in Texas to share their experiences and words of wisdom. We are so grateful to all AmeriCorps members and alums who made a commitment to serve and have contributed their time, passion, and skills to strengthening Texas communities. OneStar is a proud Employer of National Service!

Sarah Beckmann completed two AmeriCorps terms in Austin as an AmeriCorps Access Coach at College Forward and an AmeriCorps VISTA Leader at Texas Association of Charitable Clinics. After completing her service, she returned to College Forward to join the staff as a Program Manager, supporting AmeriCorps members in growing professionally and effectively serving students.

Sarah joined the OneStar team this year to support the OneStar AmeriCorps VISTA Project in recruiting and managing members.

What made you decide to join AmeriCorps?

I joined AmeriCorps to start my career in nonprofits and education. I had an interest in working with students and wanted to try something that would help me gain hands-on experience while also giving back to the community I was serving in. People should join AmeriCorps if they are looking for a fun way to engage with their community and develop professionally in their fields. AmeriCorps is an incredible networking experience to find people that want to give back and serve their community like you. I’ve made some of my best friends from my service terms, and I am so thankful to have been part of some amazing cohorts of other members.

How did AmeriCorps affect your perspective on service and your community? What insights did you gain about your community through AmeriCorps?

AmeriCorps was the first time I truly engaged in full-time service. I came from a more “office job” kind of background and wanted to feel more connected to the community around me in my day-to-day work. I wanted to wake up every day knowing that the work I was doing was actually making a difference. AmeriCorps gave me the opportunity to do that in both my service terms and helped me realize the passion that I had for helping others. It also helped me learn more about the amazing work being done in the community I lived in every day.

Do you have a notable memory from your time in AmeriCorps that illustrates the impact service has had on you?

One of my most notable moments from my AmeriCorps experience was the VISTA convening myself and other VISTA managers and leaders put on during my second term of service. This conference brought together VISTA members serving from around Texas for a chance to learn and develop together. It was also the first time I had met many of my own team members in person, and the experience really brought us together as a group. It was a great event to plan and helped me connect with members from all over Texas, both in my program and so many others. 

What skills or experiences did you gain during your AmeriCorps service that you use in your current career?

I truly believe the best professional experience I’ve gained in my career was during both of my service terms. I was able to learn so much through hands-on service and learning with my peers. I learned how to be a better team member and leader, as well as how to help others develop alongside of me. From working with students on FAFSA applications to creating volunteer programs for medical clinics, I learned so much about the education and healthcare fields just from being around other AmeriCorps members and staff that I worked with. It was an experience that I am so thankful for, and I still use the skills I developed during service to this day.

What advice would you give to AmeriCorps members to make the most of their service experience?

My biggest piece of advice to AmeriCorps members is to be open and ready for anything. You have no idea what amazing opportunities are out there for you until you open up to them. I think everyone has the chance to grow during their service terms if they put themselves out there and takes risks at new things they are interested in. Take advantage of this time to learn what you like and don’t like to do. I learned so much about myself and my career goals from both of my terms, and I am so glad I made an effort to branch out of my comfort zone to make the most of my experience.

“My service gave me an understanding of the importance of collaboration” | AmeriCorps Week 2022

03/15/2022 |
This AmeriCorps Week, March 13-19, we invited OneStar staff who served with AmeriCorps in Texas to share their experiences and words of wisdom. We are so grateful to all AmeriCorps members and alums who made a commitment to serve and have contributed their time, passion, and skills to strengthening Texas communities. OneStar is a proud Employer of National Service!

Shelby Thomas served in AmeriCorps from 2016-2017 as a Disaster Recovery VISTA for the Greater Houston Storm Recovery Network at Alliance of Community Assistance Ministries. She helped the Greater Houston community recover from major storms by providing support in resource development, project management, network communication, and data analysis for a collaborative of over 30 nonprofit & faith-based organizations participating in long-term recovery. Her diligent work was recognized during the 2017 Governor’s Volunteer Awards.

Shelby’s AmeriCorps service sparked a new interest in disaster recovery and emergency management, which led her join OneStar’s Disaster Resilience team. She then moved into the role of a specialist with the OneStar AmeriCorps VISTA Project, where she oversaw recruitment and member outreach. She currently works as a Grants Officer with the AmeriCorps Texas team.

What made you decide to join AmeriCorps?

It’s a great opportunity to develop your professional skills but also give back at the same time. After college, I knew I wanted to serve, but I was also figuring out my next steps and focusing on what skills I could gain. My AmeriCorps experience allowed me to work with individuals who had a heart for service, and it was rewarding to see that in action. It also allowed me to grow personally and professionally.

How did AmeriCorps affect your perspective on service and your community? What insights did you gain about your community through AmeriCorps?

In my AmeriCorps service year, I gained a better understanding of poverty and how it can affect people on an individual level. I saw how different organizations were collaborating to address poverty and how they worked directly with the community to provide critical services. My AmeriCorps service helped me understand what was being done to address the significant gaps in services.

Do you have a notable memory from your time in AmeriCorps that illustrates the impact service has had on you?

The success of my entire service year is a result of effective mentorship, leadership, and organizational structure that allowed me to see how a nonprofit organization can be run to strengthen its community. We were able to provide disaster recovery support to many different communities and partner organizations in the midst of Hurricane Harvey. I was extremely grateful for the opportunity to help others during a time of need. During my AmeriCorps year, I received a Governor’s Volunteer Award, which felt like recognition of not only my service, but of how much we achieved collaboratively. The award represented what we were trying to accomplish to help the community get back on its feet and affirmed the impact that we had created by working together.

What skills or experiences did you gain during your AmeriCorps service that you use in your current career?

My AmeriCorps service helped me develop the foundational and transferable skills that I needed for any career. Prior to AmeriCorps, I did not have any professional experience with nonprofits, so during my VISTA service, I gained knowledge about nonprofit operations and grantmaking and developed a passion for the nonprofit community. As someone coming into the workforce right after college, it exposed me to a professional environment and taught me how to communicate in a professional space. My service also gave me an understanding of the importance of collaboration and it developed my problem-solving skills, technical skills, and capacity building skills. I currently use those skills in my current career.

What advice would you give to AmeriCorps members to make the most of their service experience?

Use every opportunity to observe the workings of an organization, including training, resource development, and program development. Go above and beyond, be open to all opportunities, and make sure you are being an engaged AmeriCorps member. Try to find joy and motivation in all aspects of your service. Be adaptable, be flexible, and network!

“The decision to serve would send my life in an entirely new and meaningful direction” | AmeriCorps Week 2022

03/14/2022 |
This AmeriCorps Week, March 13-19, we invited OneStar staff who served with AmeriCorps in Texas to share their experiences and words of wisdom. We are so grateful to all AmeriCorps members and alums who made a commitment to serve and have contributed their time, passion, and skills to strengthening Texas communities. OneStar is a proud Employer of National Service!

Taylor Wolter served two terms as an AmeriCorps member with the Texas Conservation Corps at American Youthworks. Following his service, he took over the program in 2015 and continued to engage in numerous disasters, scaling the Disaster Response Program into a key asset for disasters in Texas and around the country.

Taylor came on board with OneStar in 2017, just days after Hurricane Harvey made landfall in Texas, and led the State of Texas in a forward direction as the Federal Taskforce Lead for Volunteer and Donations Management. Taylor is now the manager of OneStar’s Disaster Resilience initiative and is the lead for the state’s national service programs in times of disaster.

What made you decide to join AmeriCorps?

I was 25 years old working in the private sector when I had a moment of clarity. I realized that I was working a job that had no connection to my sense of service and wanted to help those who are underserved or unable to help themselves. My younger sibling had already done a term with AmeriCorps NCCC and loved it, so I made a split-second decision, sold everything I owned, and joined the Texas Conservation Corps as an AmeriCorps member, focusing on environmental conservation and disaster response. Little did I know that the decision to serve would send my life in an entirely new and meaningful direction.

How did AmeriCorps affect your perspective on service and your community? What insights did you gain about your community through AmeriCorps?

Prior to joining AmeriCorps, I thought volunteering was a noble thing that some people did, but I personally had no idea what to do or how to get involved. After learning about AmeriCorps, I was all in! During my service, I had the opportunity to live and work in communities across Texas and the United States, where I was exposed to folks from a wide range of backgrounds, belief systems, and world views. This was the first time I experienced systemic generational poverty, racial prejudice, and inequities in the federal support systems for those in need. As a result of my AmeriCorps service, I have a far more empathetic and well-rounded view of those who are challenged due to circumstances out of their control. These experiences left a forever impression, leading me to build a career in the social impact sector, where I am fortunate to continue to support those in need through my work each day.

Do you have a notable memory from your time in AmeriCorps that illustrates the impact service has had on you?

As an AmeriCorps member I spent several years deployed to natural disasters across the United States and its territories worldwide. I remember being deployed to the San Marcos/Wimberly Floods of 2015, which was only my second disaster deployment ever. I quickly got the hang of disaster work, and my superiors in the community took note. As the impacts from the disaster (an 80-foot wall of water resulting in widespread flooding) continued to grow in scale, so did our operation. On day 27 of the deployment, I was asked by the Emergency Management Director to oversee all operations in the City of San Marcos for 24 hours to allow for his team to rest and visit with their families.

This was a hugely impactful moment as I realized in an instant that my efforts and ideas as an AmeriCorps member were not only embraced, but also were recognized at the highest levels of my field, resulting in me being identified as the stand in incident commander when the government officials needed a break. For a guy who didn’t know how to connect to volunteer opportunities two years before, it felt incredible to know that I had made a tangible impact that was being recognized by professionals in my field.

What skills or experiences did you gain during your AmeriCorps service that you use in your current career?

Coming out of the private sector, I honestly wasn’t sure what experiences or skills that I would gain through my service with AmeriCorps. I quickly discovered though that it was up to me to seek out the skills and experiences I had an interest in. For me, this meant becoming the go-to member for all disaster deployments that my program was involved with. By voluntarily deploying to more than 15 disasters while in service, I developed a superior set of skills around planning large-scale disaster responses, managing large amounts of disaster volunteers (at times more than 2000 a day), and developing coalitions of individuals and organizations from a diverse set of background, world views, and political beliefs to work toward a common goal of recovering from the event. 

Following my service, I was hired to run the disaster program that I served with and eventually was hired by OneStar in the early days of Hurricane Harvey to lead FEMA’s Volunteer and Donations Taskforces and oversee the largest disaster deployment in AmeriCorps’s history at that time. And it all started with the choice to do a year of service and see where it went.

What advice would you give to AmeriCorps members to make the most of their service experience?

Go all in! Take advantage of every opportunity that is presented to you to learn about nontraditional jobs and paths to success from professionals in positions you can see yourself in. Realize that unlike some traditional jobs, your AmeriCorps service is supported by professionals that want to see you grow into the best version of yourself. I always encourage anyone joining AmeriCorps to make the experience work for you. This means seeking additional opportunities to engage with work you are passionate about, exploring new career fields, and asking to be involved in initiatives and programs that are important to you as an individual. By doing all these things, you just might find a new path that you didn’t know you were looking for—I sure did.