Description:
Serve with AmeriCorps VISTA at Habitat for Humanity of Dane County and help build long-term solutions to housing insecurity across Dane County. As the Fundraising VISTA, you’ll strengthen the systems that make affordable homebuilding possible; researching grants and donors, improving fundraising strategies, and enhancing donor data systems that support Habitat’s mission.
This is a full-time, one-year national service role, ideal for someone exploring a career in nonprofit fundraising, development, or community impact. Rather than direct service, you’ll focus on capacity building; creating sustainable fundraising and operational improvements that last beyond your service year.
You’ll gain hands-on experience in grant research, individual giving, donor databases, and nonprofit strategy while receiving professional development support, a housing allowance, and an education award. If you’re passionate about housing justice, eager to learn, and motivated to make a measurable difference, this VISTA role offers both impact and career-building experience.
What is AmeriCorps VISTA?
AmeriCorps VISTA is a national service program, similar to a public service fellowship. Members commit to one full year of service with a nonprofit or public organization that is addressing the root causes of poverty.
In this role, you would serve as a VISTA member placed at Habitat for Humanity of Dane County, supported by Habitat for Humanity of Wisconsin.
Time Commitment
- Service for 12 months
- 30 hours per week
- Flexible hybrid schedule (with weekly onsite expectations)
Compensation & Benefits
AmeriCorps VISTA members receive living supports instead of a salary:
- $957 living allowance paid every other week ($24,882 for the full 12-month program)
- $500/month housing allowance paid directly to a landlord or mortgage holder
- Education Award in the amount of $7,395 OR End-of-Service Stipend in the amount of $1800 upon successful completion
- Health coverage during service
- Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) membership
- Professional development, training, and networking opportunities
- Non-Competitive Eligibility (NCE) for federal jobs after service
- Student loan deferment or forbearance for qualified loans
- Student loan interest accrual paid for qualified loans
- Childcare assistance (if qualified)
Training & Support
- This is an entry level position, no industry specific training is required, just a heart for the mission
- AmeriCorps provides VISTA orientation and training
- Habitat staff will onboard you and provide role-specific training
- The role is intentionally designed as a learning and professional growth experience
Who Can Serve?
To serve as a VISTA member, you must:
- Be 18 or older
- Be a U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident
- Commit to the full year of service
- Pass required background checks
This role is especially popular with:
- Recent college graduates
- Career changers
- People exploring nonprofit, fundraising, or public service careers
What Happens After the Year?
At the end of the service term:
- The systems and projects you built are transitioned to staff
- You leave with tangible experience, professional references, and nationally recognized service
- Many VISTA alumni go on to careers in nonprofits, government, or graduate school
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for:
- Mission-driven work
- Professional skill-building
- A structured, supported entry into the nonprofit sector
- A meaningful way to make an impact through service
AmeriCorps VISTA offers a clear, guided, one-year pathway to do exactly that.
Requirements: