Resource Development VISTA - 2026-27

Posting Description

Resource Development VISTA  

For one year, get paid to build sustainable solutions in a community, gain valuable hands on experience and prepare for your future. Thisfull-time AmeriCorps service position offers a great opportunity to make an impact in the lives of others while building your own knowledge and skillset.   

AmeriCorps VISTA members areVolunteers in Service to America who perform indirect service to build capacity and sustainable solutions. 

What will you do?  

The resource development VISTA member creates, documents and implements a plan for donor engagement, tracking and recognition in order to increase the overall donor experience and donor buy-in to Habitat's mission. Each strategy should be well documented and evaluated to ensure sustainability beyond your service. 

• Research, develop and document a resource development and marketing plan, including targeting local individuals, businesses, faith organizations, school groups, civic groups and other community organizations.  

• Research, develop and implement systems to track donor contacts and donations and develop a donor recognition plan to recognize donor loyalty and/or milestones. 

This position will focus on resource development aspects of Habitat affiliate operations.

Where will you serve?  

• Organization name:  Niagara Area Habitat for Humanity  

• Nearest metropolitan area: Buffalo–Niagara Falls metropolitan area   

• Full-time staff:  5

• Expected number of AmeriCorps members:   2

• Number of homes to be built:  3, plus 12-18 repair projects

• Activities and attractions: Located in Western New York, this area offers access to a wide variety of cultural, recreational, and natural attractions. It is best known for the world-renowned Niagara Falls and Niagara Falls State Park, as well as the scenic Finger Lakes Region with its lakes, wineries, and outdoor activities. Residents enjoy proximity to the vibrant cities of Buffalo and Niagara Falls, along with the shores of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, which provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and waterfront recreation. The region is also home to notable attractions such as the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the Buffalo Zoo, and a passionate sports culture anchored by the Buffalo Bills, making it an appealing destination for individuals and families seeking a blend of urban amenities, outdoor adventure, arts, and entertainment.

• Unique projects: This AmeriCorps position will provide essential support to increase funding streams and brand awareness for Niagara Area Habitat for Humanity (NAHFH). They will create a fund development plan, apply for grant funding, plan and facilitate fundraisers, and support NAHFH in garnering new funding streams to support our mission. In addition, the VISTA will create promotional and marketing materials to support the various fund development initiatives and increase awareness of NAHFH.

When will you serve?  

Start dates are flexible and based on this location’s availability. Talk to the hiring manager for this position about start dates during your interview process. The start date will be 4-6 weeks from receiving an offer and no earlier than September 2026. 

Benefits of AmeriCorps service 

• Annual living allowance of  $25,637.60

• Segal Education Award of $7,395, upon successful completion of service.   

• Forbearance for most federally guaranteed student loans.  

• Health care benefits and enrollment in Employee Assistance Plan.   

• Ten personal and 10 medical leave days.  

• Personal and professional development opportunities.   

• Childcare benefits, if you qualify.  

• Noncompetitive eligibility status for federal employment for one year after successful completion of service.  

• Relocation travel assistance for members relocating more than 50 miles to serve  

Minimum Requirements 

Applicants must be a U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident at least 18 or older and have a high school diploma or GED. 

What are we looking for?  

Our ideal candidates:  

• Are passionate about serving the community through direct service. 

• Demonstrate respect for diversity of opinion, experience, and background. 

• Desire to gain hands-on experience in the affordable housing and nonprofit sector.  

• Have experience working on a team. 

• Possess stellar interpersonal communication skills. 

• Are motivated and committed to serve full time and in person. 

• A personal vehicle is required for service. 

• Position Category: Volunteer Opportunity
• Position Type: AmeriCorps
• Location: Niagara Falls, NY