VIP Leader Reflections, Part II

2012-2013 VIP Leaders share reflections of their AmeriCorps service, including what they've learned, successes and accomplishments, challenges overcome, and advice to the next group of AmeriCorps members.

When I started as the Lead here at Jewish Family Service, I was literally wide-eyed and fresh-faced. Right out of college, I was given real and tangible responsibility, a position of great potential growth, and a chance to understand the nonprofit world from within. I cannot express my gratitude enough not only to the AmeriCorps program, but also to JFS for taking a chance on me. My responsibilities ranged from volunteer interviewing, placement, and screening. Meanwhile my professional development expanded in leaps and bounds (almost unbeknownst to me!). I got to offer support to my VIP team, participate in JFS events, and get to know my own leadership style and strengths. I have the utmost respect for my coworkers and the fellows of the VIP program here in San Diego.

If you are considering applying to this wonderful program, I would like to take a moment to encourage you to do so. If you are looking for work experience, the VIP program offers its members a chance to get nonprofit experience, work on a team, develop some serious people skills, and provide an invaluable service to the San Diego community. If you are looking to utilize your creativity and ingenuity, the VIP program provides a space for members to build infrastructure—sometimes out of nothing! If you are interested in networking in the field, VIPs not only work side-by-side with the other staff members of their host organization, but also with the many partner organizations within the VIP program. Being an AmeriCorps alum is a prestigious title, but being a VIP alum is a designation I carry closer to my heart and wear with pride.

Margot Schein, VIP Leader at Jewish Family Service of San Diego

This past year as a VIP Leader has been a gift, both personally and professionally.  Professionally, I have honed my experience in leading and facilitating meetings and trainings, learning strategies to engage both fellow VIPs and volunteers alike.  Personally, I overcame the challenge of being both a role model and a friend, learning how to create a balance between the two.  In my second year with the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles, I was excited to be the lead on KOREH L.A.’s library restocking event this year, working with the administration of a partner school to manage the donation of over 1,000 brand new books to their school library.  My advice for future VIP Leaders would be just to relax and enjoy your time, because the friendships you make in AmeriCorps will be some you will treasure forever!

Kelsey Larsen, VIP Leader at the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles

Top 5 Things You Should Know About Being in AmeriCorps

5. Do not procrastinate. Even though you have 12-months, do not wait until the end of your term to finish any sustainability projects because anything and everything will come up to distract you.

4. You will have busy and slow days. You should take initiative in different projects in your organization and/or find new volunteer opportunities in the community.

3. Member Development can be fun! This is a chance for you to learn new things as well as have some fun with other AmeriCorps members. 

2. Your cohort can be a great support system. The other AmeriCorps members are probably the only people where you do not have to explain your circumstances (ex. we are the “domestic” Peace Corps).

1. You made a commitment to serve as an AmeriCorps member, and you will get things done for America and your community. There are days that might feel less eventful or meaningful, but remember that each day that you serve is a day that you made a difference.

Jobelle Duka, VIP Leader at HandsOn Central California

As I reflect on my year of service, I can't believe that a year has already come and gone. When I decided to take on the position as the VIP State Leader I immediately felt honored. Having not only the opportunity to be in AmeriCorps, but to also lead, mentor, and coach a coalition of volunteer coordinators seemed both exciting and daunting. 

The one thing I learned from this year of service is that in order to grow, either professionally or personally, individuals must be willing to push themself out of their comfort zone.  Try new things. Take risks. Accept more responsibility. Engage and listen to individuals whom you know nothing about.  These can create profound impacts in not only yourself, but also within the communities you serve.

I want to thank CalSERVES, Lauren and Sara for believing in me and allowing me the chance to take part in the VIP program. This organization will continue to do amazing work throughout California and I’m excited to see the results. 

Lastly, to the next cohort of VIP Fellows I hope your AmeriCorps year pushes you out of your comfort zone, produces positive change, conveys pride, and that you continue to uphold the ideals of service with you for a lifetime. 

Cody Cibart, VIP State Leader at CalSERVES

VIP Leader Reflections, Part I

2012-2013 VIP Leaders share reflections of their AmeriCorps service, including what they've learned, successes and accomplishments, challenges overcome, and advice to the next group of AmeriCorps members.

I think that one of the things I am most proud of from my year as a VIP Leader is the strength and camaraderie of our AmeriCorps team. I have worked hard to provide fun activities for each meeting, celebrate birthdays, plan get-togethers outside of work, and to create a sense of comfort and support. Each AmeriCorps knows that they can talk about their issues, whether it is work related or personal, to both me and their team. I think this has created a strong bond amongst our members, but it has also allowed us to catch and solve issues as they arise and before they are too late. This is the first year that HandsOn Inland Empire has had, that we have not lost a single VIP. While I can’t take all of the credit for that, I do think that the safe haven and open door policy I have created has definitely helped some of the AmeriCorps through their year. My suggestion to future VIP Leaders is to ensure that you are not only managing the AmeriCorps, but that you are also supporting them. This year is not easy. For many it can be a first real job. And with the low pay and stress of the job, it can be tough. But working through it as a team, can give them the support they need to continue their year successfully. 

Erin Weaver, VIP Leader at Inland Empire United Way

As I finish my third term with AmeriCorps and get ready to move onto other areas of life, I am proud of having accomplished many things I set out to do this year, not only professionally, but personally. I wanted to take on the role as leader of a crew to challenge myself to be able to meet deadlines, encourage others and tackle my arch-nemesis: Paperwork.  I can successfully say I have not only accomplished these goals, but have also grown in my abilities to communicate and interact in many challenging situations. If I could impart any advice to an AmeriCorps member, no matter if you are brand-spanking new or an old hand at this: remember to approach every situation with an open heart and a mirror. The open heart allows you to be impacted by those around you, not just impart “wisdom” to those whom you think need to hear it; and the mirror allows for you to see yourself and the ways in which you can grow and change. I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of AmeriCorps and this year’s Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County AmeriCorps crew. 

Jennifer Harman, VIP Leader at the Santa Cruz Volunteer Center

HARD WORK!!! Is the first thing I think of when it comes to being a VIP lead. It has been a very fast, busy year for me! I truly have loved every minute of the experience, every conversation filled with laughter and love I’ve been able to give and receive. I’ve made friends in my fellow VIP members that will last me a lifetime of memories. I’ve learned to trust myself more than I ever have before. I’ve learned that it really is the smaller things in life that keep your heart whole. My advice to anyone coming in would be stay committed to the journey you are about to go on, enjoy the relationships you will build in the process, and allow your heart to grow with every experience! Best of Wishes!

Airika Narcisse, VIP Leader at City of Duarte

Today is my last day, and looking back over all of the challenges, successes, failures, relationships, volunteers, team meetings, and everything else that has happened throughout the course of the year, knocks me off my feet a little bit. To see the growth of all of the VIP Fellows serving with CalSERVES, and those serving around the state, is something we should all take a moment to reflect on and be proud of. 

Together we have achieved the goals set out for us at the beginning of the year. We have recruited thousands of volunteers, who have served hundreds of thousands of hours, to support the communities we serve. But perhaps more importantly is the intangible achievement that we see everyday as volunteer managers. We got our organizations to improve their services at the giving hands of volunteers. We got things done for America in the truest sense of the phrase. 

I'm thankful to Sara Sitch and Lauren Serpa  for achieving a vision they had for VIP that provided all of us the opportunity to serve communities throughout California this year. their tireless leadership is an inspiration, and shows how much positive change can happen if you have a vision, determination, and are willing to put in extraordinary effort. 

Alex Rowan, VIP Leader at CalSERVES

Volunteer Management

 by Alex Drey-Mulari, AmeriCorps VIP Fellow at THINK Together in Ontario, CA

HandsOn Inland Empire (HOIE) is the volunteer department at Inland Empire United Way. In conjunction with hosting volunteers at the United Way, HOIE manages a website that allows volunteers and non-profits in the area to come to one place to connect. The department also organizes two large-scale school makeovers a year, manages corporate volunteer groups, and trains community members to become Volunteer Leaders. Through the department’s combined knowledge of volunteer programs and management, they are able to successfully support 7 AmeriCorps VIP Fellows. Alex Drey-Mulari is one of the Fellows currently hosted by HOIE. Alex works at THINK Together as a volunteer coordinator and he wrote the following from his experience throughout the year.

Volunteer Management is a huge umbrella term, and there are certainly many ways to approach it. Here at THINK Together, an academic support program in Southern California, we get to oversee all aspects of volunteer management. Over my term of service I had the wonderful opportunity to develop and strengthen many skills related to volunteerism. Here are some of my personal experiences with coordinating volunteers, and I hope that you can gain some insight into what it takes to work with volunteers.

First, always be present in your job, by being energetic and engaged. This does not mean that you need to a social butterfly if you are not that type of person. You should always look happy while doing your job, especially when interacting with current or potential volunteers. Always remember that volunteers are giving their precious time, and they want to feel excited about what they are doing. Your position is key to taking the volunteer’s desire to serve, and making it as enjoyable as possible. Also being energetic is more fun anyway.

Next, I would suggest getting to know your volunteers. This could be in the form of a volunteer interview, included in their volunteer application, or even just asking them questions. Volunteers serve for a myriad of reasons, and it is important to understand why each individual is volunteering. If they want to spend time tutoring children, then do not assign them to spreadsheets. Also, find out what kind of recognition the volunteers like. If they want a standing ovation in front of everyone that’s great, but maybe a hand-made thank you card is more their style. Taking that extra time to be on a first name basis with all of your volunteers really helps keep volunteers around, and again the experience is more fun this way.

The last skill I think that is essential to effective volunteer management, is scheduling of time. Many a time during my service, even today as I am writing this piece, scheduling has been an issue. I had volunteers scheduled to attend orientation to work for our summer programs, and turns out the summer ended before they could even start. Due to this interference I fell behind in other work, and had to scramble around last minute. This is a terrible position to be in, so being on top of everything is much more preferable. Learn what needs your immediate attention, and what other tasks can wait until later. Managing volunteers starts with managing your own time properly, and that is a skill I am continuing to develop.

Alex (on the far right) with VIP Fellows from HOIE.

The Volunteer Round Table Seminar

Our local VIP Fellows serving at CalSERVES and Extended Child Care have partnered up to facilitate a monthly Volunteer Roundtable (VRT) seminar.  These seminars provide a unique professional development opportunity for the dedicated volunteers throughout our partner site programs.  Volunteers have the chance to network with volunteers at different organizations, and learn about topics ranging from leadership to emotional intelligence.  The VRT also gives our VIP Fellows the opportunity to develop their own leadership skills by creating and facilitating the seminars.  

Capacity building is an important aspect of the VRT that has made it a focus to our local team.  By giving volunteers additional training they develop into even more high value volunteers and they also feel more connected to our programs because of the opportunity to participate in such a unique seminar series.

An important aspect of the VRT is the emphasis on open discussions.  The volunteers delve into issues and come up with creative ideas about leadership that they can use in their volunteer roles.   By creating a space for the volunteers to have their perspectives heard, we have open and useful discussions around leadership topics.  It makes for an interactive and engaging seminar. 

The VRT is also a sort of appreciation for our volunteers.  It allows us as facilitators to show that we care about their own development as volunteers and as individuals.  What’s more, by learning new leadership skills, the quality of their service also increases, and everyone comes out on top.  

The VRT has been a success in our program, and we encourage other volunteer programs to develop similar enrichment programs for volunteers. You will be amazed at how thankful volunteers will be for a worthwhile training experience!

VIP Fellows Meghan Schuttler, CalSERVES,  and Sydney Tanimoto, ECC,  appreciate their volunteers at the VRT

Volunteer Training Program @ CalPoly San Louis Obispo

By Nick Bilich, VIP Lead with the Gender Equity Center, a partner site of CalPoly San Luis Obispo

An aspect of capacity building that we’ve implemented this spring at the Gender Equity Center is our updated volunteer training program.  A crucial aspect of designing any capacity building project is answering the “why?” question for potential volunteers—Why volunteer with our organization?

Our Center is (like a LOT of nonprofits) focused on aspects of social justice.  Many potential volunteers can be unaware of:

1. the ability to become involved in a movement they’re passionate about, and 
2. that our site provides the opportunity to exercise their energy and talent towards an important goal.  

Thus, this training project is designed to educate our community about WHY our Center exists, and show people the impact volunteers can have by investing in the Gender Equity Center.

A specific tip I’d like to highlight as we’ve designed this training is how it’s marketed to highly invested volunteers AND marginally invested volunteers.  The first group is comprised of those passionate about gender identity education, feminism, and social change.  These volunteers are attracted to the potential ability to impact our community through the education they receive, and the subsequent application.  It takes less of an effort to attract these volunteers, because they seek out these opportunities and education.  

The second group however, is not as deeply concerned about the goals of the volunteering, but is looking for some added value gained in the experience.  For us, it’s important to emphasize that our volunteer training is a GREAT resume builder!  Socially competent employees are very attractive in today’s job market, and our volunteer training can provide someone education to increase their understanding of what types of people could potentially be in their workplace.  Also, volunteering gives the individual opportunity to cite the hours they’ve devoted to our Center on their resume.  Mentioning all these aspects of the volunteer training allows us to throw the net wider than we might have otherwise.

I would encourage those developing similar programs/trainings to consider how they can market to groups who might be in the “marginally invested” category.  You might get more volunteers than you think!

Nick (bottom left) and other VIP Fellows as part of a human mesa.

US Volunteers Continue to Produce Results

by Cody Cibart, VIP Statewide Leader 

Good deeds aren’t just limited to the holiday season. According to Volunteering and Civic Life in America, a report issued by the Corporation for National and Community Service, 64.3 million Americans (more than one in four adults) volunteered through a formal organization last year. That’s an increase of 1.5 million people from the year before. 

California volunteers alone contributed 977.9 million hours of service, valued at $20.9 billion. 

The report goes on to highlight the support and contributions of AmeriCorps and Senior Corps programs that serve communities throughout the U.S. “Every day, AmeriCorps and Senior Corps members help more than three million disadvantaged youth by serving as teachers, tutors, mentors, and counselors,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.

With the national volunteer rate reaching a five-year high, civic engagement is as prominent as ever. As residents become more involved within their neighborhoods it creates a ripple effect that inspires others to do the same. 

CalSERVES VIP is proud that our dedicated AmeriCorps members continue to bridge local organizations with volunteer support. Thank you to our program participants for your hard work and continued contributions! 

Explore more information about volunteering in America here.

Celebrate Volunteers 55+ and the difference they make: May 7-11 is Senior Corps Week:

This week is the second annual Senior Corps Week, celebrating the service and community contributions of volunteers ages 55 and over.  These Baby Boomer volunteers make up a large and vital part of the service movement in our country.  Did you know that there are over 300,000 senior citizens serving through Senior Corps programs like RSVP, Foster Grandparents, and Senior Companions? 

See the Huffington Posts's story about Senior Corps Week and post pictures of senior citizens volunteering.  Or, get news from the Senior Corps on Facebook.

And, did you know that President Obama declared May Older Americans Month in this proclamation from last week?  This month is a great time to appreciate the older and wiser citizens around us, especially if they serve around you.

How will you be appreciating older Americans this week and month?

Nominate a Champion of Change

The White House Champions of Change program is looking for nominations of individuals who exemplify the Life and Legacy of Cesar Chavez by living our Chavez's core values: service to others, sacrifice, helping the most needy, acceptance of all people, celebration of community, non-violence, knowledge, and innovation.

Do you know an exemplary volunteer, VIP Fellow, or staff member at one of our partner sites who exudes the values and service of Cesar Chavez?  Nominate them here by midnight on February 24 (that's tomorrow... so get a move on!).

Happy Valen... er, Generosity Day!

The 14th of February brings a lot of mixed emotions - we all know people who absolutely love it and people who try to pretend that it doesn't exist.  It's a sweet idea, showing love to the people in your life, but... why not show love to everyone?  Why not show your love through service and generosity?

Let's help reboot Valentine's day.  Let's join in the movement, and make it Generosity Day.

Give of yourself - your heart, your time, and your resources today.  not just to that "special someone" - take the challenge, take the pledge, and be generous with everyone around you today.

Enjoy this great video from the Generosity Day cause to get a little inspiration for a day of giving in love and service:

Resolve to Give this Year

What did you give in 2011?  Chances are you gave at least some of your time, skills, and resources to those around you need - be it family, friends, or complete strangers you served through a nonprofit or other cause.

How did giving make you feel?  It probably made you feel pretty good.  And if it did - why not do it more?

Maybe next year you'd like to increase your skills?  Make new friends?  Make a difference in the world?  Well: then volunteer!  Volunteering will help you better yourself and your community all at once.

Let's make this year make a real difference - let's make a year when we give more of ourselves and our tie to the causes we care about.

Cheers to a fulfilling and impactful 2012!

Generosity Day?

So, everyone in the United States has probably heard of Thanksgiving.  But what if there were a holiday about giving thanks by showing generosity?  What if there were a day when everyone were called to serve and to give to the causes around them?

Enter: Generosity Day.

Generosity Day, a small movement started just a couple of years ago, seeks to "Re-boot Valentine's Day."  The idea: show love, show your thankfulness, and do it by giving generously to those around you.

I love this idea - what if we all decided, on one day, to serve.  What if it were a national holiday, like Thanksgiving is?  Thanksgiving is so inspiring - everyone appreciating what they have, enjoying the community around them, and many choosing to serve.  How inspiring would it be to see our communities come together on another day - all around generosity?

I hope you have a great Thanksgiving, and show your thanks for your volunteers, the staff at your organization, and your community support.  But let's start the call to turn it back around into giving.  Let's turn that idea of appreciation into a day of special projects, good deeds, and a call to our community to lend a giving hand to give-back generously!

Ever wonder who volunteers?

Check out this great infographic put together by the Corporation for National and Community Service:

Great video on nonprofits!

In VIP, many of our Partner Sites are nonprofit organizations, so many of our AmeriCorps members spend their 1700 hours getting to know their organization in great detail.  But have you thought about the impact of nonprofits in the US as a whole?

Check out this interesting video with a great list of statistics on US nonprofits - anything in  this video surprise you?