Preparing an orientation binder for AmeriCorps*VISTA members
Abstract
A well-conceived orientation binder can get an AmeriCorps*VISTA member off to a good start for the program year, familiarizing them quickly to their new role as national program participant. With suggestions about what to include in an orientation packet, this effective practice was shared by Alisha Smith via ACList, the AmeriCorps e-mail discussion list, in August 2005.Issue
Orienting new members with information that is relevant to both their daily lives and the big picture of service can start members off on the right foot.Action
Alisha Smith, Volunteer West Virginia Program Assistant and Disability Coordinator for the West Virginia Commission for National and Community Service, recommends including the following materials and information in an orientation binder for new AmeriCorps*VISTA members.Downloadable documents and links are examples provided by The Resource Center. You may need to make adaptations or replacements for your particular program needs.- Media guide (local media contact info)
- A tip sheet on how to work with the media http://nationalserviceresources.org/filemanager/download/140/IX1.pdf [56 KB]
- Sample press release http://nationalserviceresources.org/filemanager/download/141/IX2.pdf [15 KB]
- Sample photo release form http://www.nationalserviceresources.org/filemanager/download/forms/EPC_photo_release.pdf
- Blank copy of member monthly report http://nationalserviceresources.org/filemanager/download/73/XV.J.1.pdf [23 KB]
- Blank copy of member time sheet http://www.nationalserviceresources.org/filemanager/download/56/XV.B.2.pdf [27 KB]
- Copy of member work plan http://www.nationalserviceresources.org/filemanager/download/87/V3.pdf [36 KB]
- Memo of agreement http://www.nationalserviceresources.org/filemanager/download/4/IB1.pdf [93 KB]
- Contact information of fellow AmeriCorps*VISTA members
- State Commission contact information http://www.cns.gov/about/contact/statecommission.asp
- State Corporation office contact information http://www.cns.gov/about/contact/stateoffices.asp
- Sample volunteer/training sign in sheet
- Benefit information (child care assistance)
- Asset mapping tips/resource tip sheet
- Calendar of events for the year (training schedule)
- Office forms
- National Service Day dates and expectations http://www.cns.gov/about/calendar/calendar_ac.asp
- Tips on maintaining an effective portfolio
- Journal pages
- List of good resource books http://nationalserviceresources.org/wgnsrclibrary/advancedsearch/
Context
This resource will be most useful to AmeriCorps*VISTA members who are beginning their term of service. It could contain everything from low cost restaurants to the AmeriCorps*VISTA project plan and survival guides to the sponsor's communication structure.Posted On
August 24, 2005For More Information
Alisha Smith
West Virginia Commission for National and Community Service
Volunteer WV Program Assistant & Disability Coordinator
601 Delaware Ave.
Charleston,
WV
25302
Phone: (304) 558-0111
Fax: (304) 558-0101
Website: http://www.volunteerwv.org
Email: asmith@mail.state.wv.us
Resources
The Resource Center's Sample Forms Collection may be useful when preparing your own orientation binder.
The AmeriCorps Listserv is a forum for AmeriCorps programs, state commissions, T/TA providers, staff of the Corporation for National and Community Service, and anyone else interested in AmeriCorps. Discussion focuses on training, technical assistance, and programmatic issues. Those without web access can subscribe to the AmeriCorps listserv by sending an e-mail message to join-aclist@lists.etr.org.