Dear AmeriCorps members, sponsors, and supervisors,

I am excited to share that as of Sunday, Sept. 8, AmeriCorps members and leaders serving in the VISTA program are now receiving their living allowance at the updated rates. This adjustment will be reflected in paychecks received at the end of September.

As we shared in messages sent to all members and sponsors on Tuesday, July 23, this year’s review took into account the national poverty threshold and county-specific cost of living data to determine the revised allowance rates for each service area. Additionally, AmeriCorps VISTA has raised the minimum living allowance to $24,962 annually (equivalent to $12 an hour). Thanks to these adjustments, all members and leaders serving in the VISTA program will benefit from an increase in their living allowance. The new rates by county are available to view.

Over the past year, members serving in the VISTA program have achieved outstanding results. They have secured more than $120 million in resources, mobilized more than 250,000 volunteers, reached more than 2 million youth, connected 60,000 individuals to substance abuse treatment, and supported more than 300,000 people experiencing homelessness. Despite facing budget cuts that have reduced the number of members nationwide, our teams have managed to extend their impact - particularly in addressing homelessness - and continue to maximize every federal dollar through locally raised cash and in-kind contributions, effectively doubling the value of our federal investment. These accomplishments not only reflect members’ unwavering commitment to alleviating poverty but also demonstrate the significant effectiveness and value of the AmeriCorps VISTA program.

Thank you for your unwavering dedication, passion, and resilience. Your service is truly inspiring, and we are deeply grateful for the positive impact you make every day.

In service,

Maggie Garvey, Acting Director
AmeriCorps VISTA