October Professional Development

As we do not have an All VISTA Meeting (AVM) this month each member should check out the newly revamped Training page on the VISTA Portal.

The Training page can be found under the Activities tab. On the months where there are no AVMs members should complete three trainings from the list on the Trainings page; some of these are required trainings. Members can complete the trainings at their own pace and self-select optional trainings that best fit their interest and needs of their position during service.  

MN Power Rate Discount
For VISTAs who pay for their electricity bill and have their Minnesota Power account in their name, sign up here for a discount on your bill. All VISTAs will qualify based on income!

Taking effect last year, households that are income-qualified and use less than 1000 kWh per month can receive a discount on their first 600 kWh. 

Creating Connection: Authentic Listening and Speaking
Participants will learn the basics of Nonviolent Compassionate Communication (NVC) an internationally known model of communication. This workshop is designed to present practical and constructive approaches for dealing with conflict and stressful relationships through authentic communication. To register visit www.juniorleagueduluth.org 

VISTA Campus Training: Using Digitial Tools to Make Volunteering More Accessible
October 25, 2023
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM

This webinar will explore best practices in digital marketing for adapting volunteer position descriptions to make them more accessible for the audience. The session will examine different methods for reaching your target audience in your community in an equitable and inclusive manner.

September AVM: Self-Determination Theory

Thursday, September 14th
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Eco3 Office – 2014 W. 3rd St. 

Our mandatory bi-monthly All VISTA Meeting is coming up! Reese will be presenting on social science theory and how to use motivation to make a difference in your community. Reminder: Performance Measures are due at this time (not new VISTAs). 

Professional Development Opportunity: MN Council of Nonprofits Annual Conference

September 20 – 21 
Duluth Entertainment Convention Center (DECC)

Join hundreds of nonprofit staff, board members, volunteers, and allies as we take part in two days of learning, community, recharging, and celebration of YOU, Minnesota’s amazing nonprofits. 

There is a Pay What You Can model that  VISTAs can utilize to get discounted admission for $69. Registration includes 40+ breakout sessions on topics with skill-building, facilitated networking opportunities, admission to an exhibitor hall with 40+ vendors, and wellness activities. 

VISTA Campus Training

AmeriCorps VISTA Campus offers optional trainings for VISTA Members. Check out what is coming up in the next couple weeks!

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness: A Primer for AmeriCorps Grantees and Members
  September 20
  4:00 PM –  5:00 PM
  Webinar for all AmeriCorps members, alumni, grantees, and sponsors.
  Join AmeriCorps and the U.S. Department of Education to learn more about how AmeriCorps members and alumni can take advantage of federal student loan relief efforts. During this event, Dept. of Education officials will provide an overview of the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, recent changes to PSLF and income-based student-loan repayment plan options, and special considerations for AmeriCorps members. 
• Developing a Work Plan from Your VISTA Assignment Description
  September 27
  3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
  Webinar for VISTA members
  A detailed work plan is an essential tool to help you understand your AmeriCorps project and community, and it is a great way to establish realistic goals for your service with your supervisor. This webinar will present a strategy and template for creating a monthly work plan to map out the year, recommendations for updating and managing changes that occur during your service, and tips for using the work plan as a sustainability tool for your project and a career development tool once your service ends.