Organization: Running Strong for American Indian Youth®

Term of service: June 11, 2012 - June 10, 2013 (We must fill position by May 2012)

Running Strong for American Indian Youth^® (www.indianyouth.org) is a national nonprofit organization founded in 1986 by Olympic Champion Billy Mills (Oglala Lakota) to meet critical needs on American Indian reservations and provide opportunities and hope for the future for American Indian youth. Many of our programs support the Lakota (Sioux) on the Great Plains, primarily on the Pine Ridge and Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservations in South Dakota, where the need is great.

Running Strong’s VISTA project has three long-term goals:

1.) develop a sustainable “Homes for Heroes” program to address the inadequate housing and overcrowding issues on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation,

2.) increase participation in our charity marathon team and expand to participate in four marathons a year by recruiting local volunteers in the race city to assist with logistics which will significantly increase funds raised to support all Running Strong programs as well as increase our visibility across the US, and

3.) build the capacity of our media outreach and volunteer activism, which will increase support for Running Strong programs, educate the general populace about issues facing American Indian youth today and establish key ways for supporters to get involved to find solutions.

Specific activities the VISTA member will perform include, but are not limited to:

• conduct research on housing programs,
• create application/nomination process,
• develop fundraising materials,
• establish partnerships with local school groups and companies,
• conduct outreach to local community and media,
• research other marathons throughout the country (entry requirements, registration, accommodations, etc.)
• revamp fundraising/training packet to be more engaging for the runner,
• develop application process for each new race,
• research spaces to host race-related events such as a team reception,
• create recruitment and management database for program staff and supporters,
• recruit volunteers and interns,
• expand website to be more interactive,
• organize fundraising events,
• research and write grants

Recommended skills and qualifications:

- Intermediate pc skills

- Interpersonal skills

- Proficiency in English

- Business administration skills

Contact Information: Megan Carter at (703) 317-9881
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VISTAs are full time volunteers who
build the capacity of nonprofits.

VISTA service is a one year full-time commitment. The term of service will be June 11, 2012 - June 10, 2013.

Outside employment is not permitted during VISTA service.

What are the basic benefits?

• A modest living-allowance
• Travel opportunities during service
• Training opportunities during service
• $1500 end-of-service stipend or a $5350 Education Award to pay-off qualifying student loans or put towards future tuition at many universities
• Basic health care coverage
• Relocation assistance
• Local transportation assistance
• Childcare assistance

Who qualifies?

You have to be at least 18 years old (but adults of all ages become VISTAs!) and you should have completed some college or other relevant training. Mostly you need to be qualified for the particular position for which you are applying.

http://www.americorps.gov/vista for information on the benefits of AmeriCorps VISTA service.