AmeriCorps VISTA Celebrates 50 years of Service in Appalachian Region

Provided by Berea College

This year marks the 50th anniversary of AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers In Service to America), a program of the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). The central Appalachian region is celebrating the successes of anti-poverty service at the AmeriCorps VISTA 50th Anniversary Community Solutions Spotlight at Berea College on Monday, June 29. The event, one of only five national spotlights, will recognize the work being done to alleviate poverty in Central Appalachia and is expected to attract state and national officials.

“For 50 years, AmeriCorps VISTA has been at the forefront of helping communities across America,” said Paul Monteiro, director of AmeriCorps VISTA. “AmeriCorps VISTA is a key example of what works in service—with a 50-year history on the front lines in the fight against poverty, including in Central Appalachia. I look forward to seeing the impact of VISTA at this event, and hope the community will join us in this commemoration.”

AmeriCorps VISTA invites all who would like to participate in the celebration to register for the free event. Participants can take part in the afternoon track event.
 Track B begins at 12:30 p.m. and allows participants to engage in a community-based discussion of VISTA’s history in Appalachia before joining with Track A participants for the Community Solutions Summit and event activities.

AmeriCorps VISTA is also looking to reconnect with VISTA alumni members. If you or someone you know formerly served as a VISTA, especially in Central Appalachia, contact Chris Mackey at christopher.mackey@kycompact.org or (859) 572-7840 for more information.
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