Wheelchair Ramp Accessibility Program VISTA

Wheelchair Ramp Accessibility Program VISTA WRAP (Wheelchair Ramp Accessibility Program) has provided safe home access for 20 years, ensuring individuals with mobility challenges can remain independent in their homes and engaged in their communities. To expand our impact, WRAP is launching an AmeriCorps VISTA initiative to increase our service reach, enhance volunteer and donor engagement, and build the infrastructure needed to serve more Iowans. This project will develop a scalable, "plug-and-play" package based on WRAP's proven best practices, making it easy for new communities to replicate our model. This package will include volunteer recruitment and training guides, donor outreach strategies, community engagement frameworks, and operational procedures for launching and sustaining WRAP satellites. By streamlining expansion, we will empower other Iowa communities to address accessibility challenges efficiently. The AmeriCorps VISTA member will play a critical role in this effort by assessing WRAP's current program, documenting additional standard operating procedures and best practices, and developing an adaptable implementation plan. They will collaborate with stakeholders to identify target communities, establish partnerships, and create sustainable funding strategies. Additionally, they will establish area volunteer engagement processes to ensure consistent service quality across new locations. Through this project, WRAP aims to expand into multiple counties, significantly increasing the number of low-income individuals served while fostering stronger local networks of volunteers and support. By strengthening WRAP's foundation and creating a replicable framework, this project will ensure long-term sustainability and accessibility improvements throughout Iowa. The VISTA will serve as a part of Volunteer Iowa's program. Volunteer Iowa is a state agency whose mission is to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic engagement through service and volunteering. Further help on this page can be found by clicking here. Member Duties : Our WRAP Growth VISTA will: Conduct a program audit to identify strengths, gaps, and growth opportunities. Document operations to streamline efficiency. Enhance volunteer and donor engagement by evaluating retention strategies. Develop a "plug-and-play" toolkit for launching WRAP in new areas. Create a leadership training program to ensure local engagement. Design a diverse funding strategy with grants, sponsorships, and community fundraising. Assess community needs to select high-impact expansion areas. Partner with nonprofits, agencies, and businesses to share resources. Develop a community-level plan for securing volunteers and leadership to ensure self-sufficiency. Host workshops to ensure partner commitment and long-term sustainability. Launch pilot programs with strong local leadership. Pair experienced WRAP volunteers with new local volunteers for mentorship. Evaluate success based on leadership, volunteer retention, and funding stability. Program Benefits : Relocation Allowance , Living Allowance , Health Coverage* , Training , Childcare assistance if eligible , Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend . Terms : Permits attendance at school during off hours , Car recommended , Permits working at another job during off hours . Service Areas : Housing , Veterans . Skills : Writing/Editing , Social Services , General Skills , Leadership , Veterans , Team Work .

Created: 2025-04-19