OSMRE VISTA Program
The OSMRE/VISTA Program is designed to partner with eligible applicants that have access to AmeriCorps Volunteers in Service to America (hereinafter referred to as VISTA) positions through partnership with the Corporation for National and Community Service, or other intermediary organization, to administer the OSMRE/VISTA Program. The OSMRE/AmeriCorps Program was developed to provide an opportunity for OSMRE to increase its engagement with young people with skills and interest in activities aligned with the OSMRE mission. Recipients of OSMRE/VISTA Program financial assistance will support an innovative partnership, working directly with OSMRE in the following areas: (1) community and environmental reclamation, (2) community environmental stewardship, (3) economic improvement, (4) educational opportunities, (5) research, and more. The program places mission-oriented adults as VISTAs in communities impacted by pre-regulatory mining practices to serve for a period of one (1) year. A VISTA is an individual who engages in national service through an activity approved by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), or an intermediate organization. VISTAs receive a living allowance and other benefits while serving. Upon successful completion of their service, VISTAs may earn a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award from the National Service Trust that they can use to pay for higher education expenses or apply to qualified student loans, or a cash stipend. VISTAs who successfully complete their term of service also receive non-competitive eligibility for Federal jobs.