The Ben D. Johnson Educational Center (BDJ Center) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit with the mission to build community in Natchitoches and give access to social and economic success to all its residents. The Legacy Youth Workforce Development Program serves young people 17 to 24 year olds who are out of work and school with barriers to employment. Through the Legacy Cafe, Corner Store and Garden, workforce participants receive job and life skills training which empowers them to lead independent lives.
The BDJ Center’s mission has been made possible by many hardworking, dedicated individuals, such as the staff, volunteers, and AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers (VISTAs) who come from all over the US to devote their time and service. The BDJ Center is recruiting to fill five VISTA positions in various areas and they want to share what being a VISTA is all about and how to apply.
VISTAs are “Volunteers In Service To America” who make a difference in communities all over the country, serving full time in one year terms, working to build capacity and sustainability for various projects. Benefits include a daily living allowance, health benefits, paid vacation and more. The contributions made by VISTAs secures the future of organizations like the BDJ Center and enables them to serve more people in years to come.
We asked Shannon Tucker, VISTA Leader at the BDJ Center, Why is this service important? She stated, “I’m starting my third year as a VISTA at the BDJ Center. This time has been full of personal and professional development for me and I am privileged now to share that same opportunity with others. This work has made a difference within me as much as I feel I have made a difference in my community..”
Claire Prymus, President and Founder, stated “We are looking forward to another year of partnership with AmeriCorps and all the bright, new, dedicated VISTAs who will join our team to help secure the future of our programming. Apply today to help our organization continue our mission.”
To apply, follow the step by step instructions shown in the PDF, Call (318) 460-7460 Monday – Friday, 8AM – 4PM.
The Ben D. Johnson Educational Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
