A YEAR OF SERVICE
AmeriCorps VISTAs serve nationally to build capacity at local organizations that serve low income communities. At Turning the Page Chicago (TTP) they are fundamental to strengthening relationships with families and school staff and by developing long-lasting partnerships with local organizations, museums, and universities. VISTAs play a unique role in most aspects of TTP programs including volunteer outreach, development, communications, student curriculum development, and supporting Carpe Librum bookstores. Our latest VISTA Spotlight shines on Volunteer Recruitment Specialist, Emily Allen.
Name: Emily Allen
Hometown: Baltimore, MD
Favorite hobby: Painting with watercolors.
Favorite childhood book: Junie B. Jones.
Hats I wear at TTP: Volunteer Recruitment Specialist – all things Carpe Librum.
Why I chose to serve with AmeriCorps VISTA:
I chose to serve with Americorps VISTA because after serving as an Americorps member with City Year Chicago I knew there was still a lot I wanted to learn about the education landscape here in Chicago. Americorps has given me the opportunity to explore the ways in which non-profits function to create positive change in urban communities. Through Americorps, I knew I would have the chance to learn new skills like recruiting volunteers and finding interesting ways to fundraise, all things I have never done before.
Most interesting aspect of my service with TTP: In my role here at TTP I’ve experienced every aspect of working for a non-profit. I might start the day at a staff meeting here at our office in North Lawndale then travel to one of our bookstores downtown to meet with new volunteers and end the day back in the community working with students at a Community Night. I like that I get to experience all parts of our organization.
Biggest accomplishment at TTP thus far: My biggest accomplishment so far is organizing two new pop-ups for Carpe Librum, our bookstores. Last year, I discovered a unique pop-up model called Boombox. Boombox has created refurbished shipping containers that allow for businesses to activate unused spaces in neighborhoods they may not otherwise be able to afford. Through this opportunity we have popped up in two new neighborhoods. We have learned a lot about what works well and what doesn’t work as well for our bookstore fundraising model.
What I hope to gain from my time with TTP: I know I want to continue working in the education sector. I hope to gain a better sense of where I see myself fitting in based on my skills and values.