Community Sustainability AmeriCorps VISTA

Job Title: Community Sustainability AmeriCorps VISTA, Neighborhood Housing Services of New Haven

Location: New Haven, CT

Duration: November 4, 2024 – November 3, 2025

Overview: Join Neighborhoods Housing Services of New Haven as a Community Sustainability VISTA to empower residents of disadvantaged communities in Connecticut as they transition to a clean energy future. In a state with some of the highest utility costs and energy burdens, this role is vital in advancing energy and environmental equity.

Program Description: For 45 years, NHS of New Haven has been dedicated to strengthening neighborhoods through affordable housing development, homebuyer education, and community empowerment. Our energy concierge program serves as a customer advocate, helping residents achieve their energy and comfort goals with resources often available at little or no cost. We guide residents to make informed decisions that enhance their homes’ health, safety, and energy affordability.

If you're passionate about improving daily lives while addressing climate change, this role is for you. The AmeriCorps VISTA member will support the energy concierge program by soliciting resident feedback and ensuring we meet their needs. Applications from local New Haven, BIPOC, and Spanish-speaking individuals are encouraged. Familiarity with Google Workspace, Salesforce, and Asana is a plus, but not required.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Program Communication:
2. Develop and revise materials that clearly communicate the benefits of the energy concierge program.
3. Assess and enhance existing promotional materials for accessibility and clarity.
4. Collaborate with the communications team to ensure cohesive branding.
5. Community Engagement:
6. Engage with residents and local partners in environmental justice initiatives.
7. Organize and host events to raise awareness about sustainability programs.
8. Collect feedback to understand residents’ needs and barriers to participation.
9. Data Management & IT Support:
10. Assist in developing and refining data collection and reporting systems to enhance program effectiveness.
11. Collaborate with staff to implement improvements in data management and storage.

Logistics of the program: The AmeriCorps VISTA program is a 1-year public service and capacity building program that is perfect for people looking to build their professional skills and get a foot in the door to their chosen field. Through the AmeriCorps VISTA program, the VISTA will benefit from a living allowance set by the federal program; access to childcare assistance if eligible; choice of education award or end of service stipend; healthcare coverage; relocation allowance if necessary; and on-the-job training. They will also have an opportunity to attend a NeighborWorks Community Leadership Institute, where they can network with public service professionals from across the country and learn new skills.

Why Join Us? Through this position, the VISTA member will have access to our rich local and national network spanning housing and residential services, energy and environmental justice policy education, and clean tech startups. Additionally, the VISTA member will be placed in New Haven, which is not only known for its vibrant urban experience, excellent universities, and rich architecture, but it's also recognized by the NY Times as one of the “52 Places to Go in 2023.” With its proximity to Boston and NYC, you’ll have access to a dynamic community while making a real difference.

1. How to Apply: To apply, send a resume and cover letter to kfay@nhsofnewhaven.org or call 203-562-0598 ext.

Together, let’s help our community transition to a clean energy future!