SOUTH BEND The Pacific County Emergency Management Agency has been awarded an AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) member position for the 2011-2012 program year. 

The VISTA member will support the Disaster Preparedness Public Education Outreach project. The member will build and strengthen the local volunteer base by developing a strong public education outreach program to enhance disaster preparedness and response needs in Pacific County with a focus on low income and vulnerable communities.

  VISTA program benefits include a living allowance, health coverage, childcare assistance if eligible, training, and choice of education award or end of service stipend. Interested parties should apply online at http://www.americorps.gov/. Applications will be accepted through July 31, 2011.

  AmeriCorps VISTA is the national service program designed specifically to fight poverty. Founded as Volunteers in Service to America in 1965 and incorporated into the AmeriCorps network of programs in 1993, VISTA has been on the front lines in the fight against poverty in America for more than 40 years. 

  VISTA members commit to serve full-time for a year at a non-profit organization or local government agency, working to strengthen community groups, build organizational capacity, help communities respond to disasters, and much more. 

  For more information about the VISTA member position or project, contact Denise Rowlett at (360) 875-9338 or email drowlett@co.pacific.wa.us.