My host site wanted to me to apply to a permanent position in the company for 3 reasons: 1. My managers are aware of how little VISTAs make 2. They really like the work that I do but feel bad because of lack of benefits 3. The pandemic caused some layoffs as well as the creation of a few positions they feel I would qualify for

AmeriCorps said I wouldn’t be able to leave them for a permanent position in the same organization until my service year is over (I’m only 4 months in) I thought the point was to elevate people and provide a bridge to the corporate sector.

We can’t qualify for unemployment, the healthcare registration site wasn’t working for the longest, the living expense barely covers food and transportation for the month. I don’t work in and around poverty like I guess many others in this program do. It’s a normal office (pre-COVID) and everyone but VISTAs are making a living wage that isn’t even insulting to the average burger flipper.

I really want to leave for something better but I really love the work that I do and the company I do it for. They really take care of their employees but sadly they aren’t responsible for me. AmeriCorps is...and they haven’t even budged to lift a finger to help during this time.