UServeUtah's AmeriCorps VISTA program focuses on alleviating poverty by building the capacity of organizations working in underserved areas of Utah and increasing economic opportunity for Utahns in impoverished communities. AmeriCorps members in the VISTA program work full-time with a host organization to engage communities and leverage resources to increase their impact and improve lives. UServeUtah serves as an intermediary, connecting organizations and AmeriCorps members, and ensures that the member’s service to the host organization is sustainable and beneficial in the long term.
UServeUtah supports six AmeriCorps VISTA host sites across the state. Through the Rural Economic Opportunity project, VISTA members play a key role in their communities by working to improve housing stability, develop the workforce, empower community members, and increase digital access, contributing to the overall growth and well-being of these areas. Members currently serve at the following sites:
Community Action Partnership of Utah
Community Action Partnership of Utah (CAP Utah) is utilizing AmeriCorps VISTA to improve digital access and reduce poverty in rural Utah. The VISTA member focuses on developing sustainable resources to enhance current efforts aimed at making internet more affordable, providing devices to those without access, and teaching basic digital literacy skills. By addressing digital access alongside educational, health, housing, and economic needs, the VISTA member is helping create long-term solutions that lift communities out of poverty.
Girls on the Run
Girls on the Run (GOTR) is a physical activity-based program that empowers 3rd-8th grade girls through running and life skills to navigate life’s challenges. Serving girls of all backgrounds and abilities across 15 counties in Utah, GOTR focuses on enhancing social, psychological, and physical skills to promote overall well-being. With a goal of expanding into rural areas, the AmeriCorps VISTA is developing a strategic recruitment plan to increase participation, supporting new sites, coaches, and volunteers. The VISTA is ensuring program readiness, assisting with communication efforts, and gaining experience working across all areas of the organization, contributing to GOTR’s mission of empowering girls throughout Utah.
Salt Lake City Corporation
Salt Lake City Housing Stability Division is working to improve housing outcomes for low-income renters with the Renters Housing Stability Roadmap. The AmeriCorps VISTA member is developing this comprehensive roadmap to help overcome barriers to obtaining and maintaining stable housing. In addition to creating the roadmap, the VISTA is also providing technical assistance to communities to support its implementation. Through this service, participating communities will be better equipped to meet the needs of low-income renter households, ensuring long-term housing stability.
Short Creek Dream Center
Short Creek Dream Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing critical needs and improving the well-being of residents in Hildale, UT, and Colorado City, AZ. The VISTA member plays a key role in expanding the center’s reach and impact by developing and coordinating outreach programs that increase visibility, volunteer engagement, and resource distribution. This role includes evaluating community needs, developing communication strategies, and supporting community partnerships to create sustainable, positive change in an area with a history of high poverty and severe mental health challenges.
Southern Utah University
Southern Utah University (SUU) is committed to enhancing the region’s workforce capacity by connecting adult learners to valuable skills training and employment opportunities. Through the Community and Workforce Development department, SUU provides accessible, short-term learning programs targeting industries such as healthcare, technology, advanced manufacturing, and tourism. The VISTA member is helping to expand workforce training by engaging local organizations, promoting certificate education, and creating pathways to access career opportunities. By supporting the development of a skilled workforce, this position contributes to the local economy, helping to reduce intergenerational poverty in Iron County and beyond.
Open Doors Utah
Open Doors Utah is dedicated to empowering families and individuals to overcome poverty and abuse, helping them achieve self-reliance. The VISTA member is building community partnerships in Davis County to decrease poverty. This role includes developing training programs, tracking team progress, and fostering cross-sector relationships to help participants achieve lasting success.
