Domestic Violence Crisis Center Capacity Building
In 2020, the Domestic Violence Crisis Center (DVCC) partnered with SBPC and became a Community Builder host site.
Through the Community Builder program, the DVCC was able to secure an AmeriCorps VISTA to support the DVCC develop sustainable strategies and programming that facilitated self-sufficiency and healthy behaviors for victims of interpersonal violence. This project also assisted with researching fund development opportunities for the agency to continue offering relevant client-centered programming.
The DVCC and SBPC recruited and selected Alexis in August 2020 to serve as an AmeriCorps VISTA for one year of service. During her year of service, Alexis proved to be a force the DVCC could not part with. In her efforts to build capacity for the DVCC, Alexis was able to secure a full-time employment position to continue her work in 2021. Read below to see what Alexis had to say about her experience.
My AmeriCorps Experience, by Alexis
I attended the University of Minnesota Duluth and graduated in May of 2020. I majored in International Studies and Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies with a minor in Political Science. Through my education, experiences as a volunteer, and as an intern at a variety of organizations, I knew my passion laid in the non-profit sector. AmeriCorps had always been something that I’ve considered post-graduation. It would be a great opportunity to grow professionally, make a positive impact, and help pay for student loans. I began looking for an AmeriCorps position that would fit my career path, passions and support my growth professionally. I applied and interviewed for a variety of positions. One of those interviews was with Souris Basin Planning Council (SBPC) and the Domestic Violence Crisis Center (DVCC) through the Community Builder Program. After my second interview with SBPC and DVCC, I knew these organizations would be a great fit for me. I accepted the position as a Development VISTA at the Domestic Violence Crisis Center in Minot, North Dakota.
As a Development VISTA, I had the opportunity to work with DVCC’s grant writer. Through this experience, I learned the importance of gathering a wide range of funding, having solid relationships within the community, and the importance of constantly adapting and learning. I think the most impactful part of this experience was the people. Being able to connect with people from vastly different life experiences was life changing. From chatting with fellow AmeriCorps members to DVCC staff that have been in this field for many years, I gained perspective and friendships from every interaction.
At the end of my year of service with AmeriCorps, I was offered a full-time position through the Domestic Violence Crisis Center. I happily accepted.
My AmeriCorps experience helped me grow personally and professionally. I gained perspective, experience, and friendships throughout my year of service. I’m extremely proud to have served as an AmeriCorps VISTA.
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