AmeriCorps VISTA - Sustainable Programs Develop- Paid Volunteer

AmeriCorps VISTA - Sustainable Programs Development

Join a unique opportunity to combine your passion for sustainability, data, and community impact in affordable housing where individuals and families succeed. Foundation Communities (FC) is seeking a person to commit to 12 months of service as a NeighborWorks AmeriCorps VISTA. At FC, our innovative model combines affordable housing with social services, empowering low-income residents and neighbors to achieve educational success, financial stability, and healthier lifestyles. We own and manage 30 properties, 27 in Austin and 3 in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Our goal is to end the cycle of poverty using our unique housing-plus-services approach.

As an AmeriCorps VISTA, you will work on the Sustainability Team to strengthen and expand sustainability programming through improved data systems, tracking, and engagement strategies. This role will focus on enhancing how FC uses data, particularly solar and energy data, to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve resource efficiency across properties. You will help develop tools and systems that support consistent program implementation, resident engagement, and continuous improvement of sustainability initiatives related to energy, water, environmental quality, and resident preparedness. This includes supporting the development of accessible resources and strategies that help residents better understand preparedness. Your work will help reduce residents’ utility costs, improve access to resource-saving practices, strengthen preparedness, and support long-term housing stability, while also increasing the organization’s capacity to deliver effective, data-informed programs.

Requirements:

• Experience leading or managing projects
• Strong quantitative skills (including fluency in Microsoft Excel)
• Strong communication skills (including writing, teaching, designing presentation materials)
• Experience in at least one of the following: data analysis, sustainability programs, developing training or tools for adult audiences
• Some work or internship experience
• Passionate and knowledgeable about sustainability and/or affordable housing
• Have your own transportation or be comfortable alt-commuting (bike/bus) between Austin locations

The position begins August 10th, 2026. Work from home up to two days a week. While you will be fully integrated as a member of the Foundation Communities Sustainability team, this is a full-time volunteer position funded by the NeighborWorks AmeriCorps VISTA program, not a conventional job posting.

AmeriCorps VISTA benefits include a monthly living allowance of $1,914/month, health insurance stipend, and, at the completion of service, an education award of ~$7,000 OR a cash stipend of $1,800.

Additionally, the selected VISTA candidate may be eligible for a housing benefit provided by Foundation Communities. This benefit covers the full cost of rent for a designated one-bedroom apartment at a Foundation Communities property (candidate must meet eligibility requirements for living at the affordable housing property in order to access this housing benefit). The candidate will be responsible for all utilities and other related living expenses (including electricity, internet, water, and personal services).

In accordance with IRS regulations, the assigned value of the housing benefit will be treated as taxable income. The candidate will receive an annual Form 1099-NEC reflecting the full value of the housing provided. Candidates are encouraged to consult a tax advisor to understand the specific tax implications of this benefit.

Foundation Communities is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation & gender identity.