Since 1994, Rural Action has hosted a highly successful AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteer In Service To America) program focusing on rural development. Through this program, more than 345 volunteers have committed over 600,000 hours of service to the communities of Appalachian Ohio.  By incorporating the AmeriCorps VISTA mission of fighting poverty in the United States, VISTA members have worked to build the capacity of local nonprofit organizations; created income opportunities for local landowners and communities; addressed the effects of resource extraction and pollution; and fostered youth leadership, environmental education and service learning through innovative and creative programs.

2009 will bring a transformation to our long-standing collaboration with the Corporation for National & Community Service as our AmeriCorps VISTA program concludes in December and our new AmeriCorps State Watersheds programs kicks off in August.  Watch for exciting details of our upcoming AmeriCorps VISTA Celebration event scheduled for late September.  We encourage you to join us as we honor our extraordinary VISTA members and their amazing accomplishments over the past 15 years.