AmeriCorps VISTA in Alaska
Summary of Projects
The VISTA Program has made a solid contribution to a variety of local economic development initiatives. Having VISTAs in small communities throughout Alaska has allowed those communities to focus on the factors needed to build and maintain solid economies. Some VISTA projects have focused on economic development, while others have focused on the social and infrastructure needs necessary before economic development can occur. VISTAs often bring technical expertise and professional experience that many of the communities served cannot afford to purchase. In addition, VISTAs often provide motivation and guidance, even when the VISTA is not directly involved in community programs. However, the biggest factor indicating success is if the project the VISTA has begun continues after their year of service.
Current VISTA Projects
| Organization | Community | Project Description |
|---|---|---|
| UAA Center for Economic Development | Anchorage | Marketing for CED |
| Southwest Alaska Municipal Conference (SWAMC) | Anchorage | SW Alaska rural energy and environment |
| Alaska Statewide Comprehensive Development Project | Anchorage | Tracks and monitors economic indicators |
| SEAtrails- Southeast Alaska Trails | Sitka | Community and tourism enhancement |
| Kenai Peninsula Economic Development District |
Coordinates rural economic planning | |
| AK Marine Science & Fisheries Career Coalition | Anchorage | Develop fisheries/marine science careers |
| Ketchikan Youth Initiatives | Community outreach and support for local nonprofits | |
| Alaska Process Industry Careers Consortium (APICC) | Anchorage | Work on the Alaska Priority Occupation report for the oil/gas/mining industries; provide information access for job seekers in these fields |