Americorp VISTAs

What is AmeriCorps VISTA?

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.

What VISTA Members Do

VISTA members commit to serve full-time for a year at a nonprofit organization or local government agency, working to fight illiteracy, improve health services, create businesses, strengthen community groups, and much more. With passion, commitment, and hard work, you’ll create or expand programs designed to bring individuals and communities out of poverty.

Contact Us

For more information, call our toll-free line at 800-942-2677 ( TTY: 800-833-3722). Or, you can email your questions to questions@americorps.org.

Email: carlos@thinktank-inc.org (937) 751-6921

Carlos Guajardo is currently attending Clark State Community College. He plans to further his knowledge in social work and possibly the field of law. Carlos was born and raised in Springfield, Ohio and is now working at Think Tank as an AmeriCorps VISTA. He is currently involved in: Clark County Circles Initiative, Getting Ahead Class, Bridges Out of Poverty Training, Nurturing Fathers for Life, and as a VISTA he is working with the Governor Strickland’s Anti-poverty Task Force for Ohio. Carlos also devotes time to church and attending N.A. meetings. Carlos feels very blessed to be a part of the Think Tank staff and is excited to be in a position where he can give back to his community. The experiences that he brings show that with help, people can make positive changes and find a better way of life.

Email: tim@thinktank-inc.org (937) 344-7303

Tim Zecchini has worked extensively in Prison Ministry in the Dayton Area. Tim has earned the designation of Interim Chaplain at Dayton Correctional Institution. He is a permanent volunteer for the Lost and Found Transitional Ministries program that is a transitional house that accepts men who are in the recovery process or returning to the community from prison. Tim has been married for 9 years and is a member of the Vineyard Church in Beavercreek Ohio.

Email: shelly@thinktank-inc.org (937) 751-6920

Shelly has been an active member of Clark County Circles for over 2 years. She is a certified Bridges Out of Poverty trainer and Getting Ahead facilitator. She has particpated in National and County-wide training events to promote the National Circles Campaign and is excited to be a VISTA member with Think Tank. Shelly is an active member of N.A. and the deaf community in Clark County. Shelly's future goals include furthering her experience in social services as well as obtaining a degree in American Sign Language and Interpretation. Shelly has two beautiful daughters ages 5 and 4.