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.