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.