Two Americorp VISTA members join United Way
A Middletown native and one from Lafayette to complete their year of service here in Madison County
ANDERSON, IN– Kateland Blackburn and Travis Doto, AmeriCorp Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) members, joined United Way of Madison County to complete one year of volunteer service. This is United Way’s third year as VISTA sponsor.
Kateland Blackburn from Lafayette, Indiana is a graduate of Purdue University and brings a degree in Mass Communication and a minor in Anthropology. An exchange program to Singapore in college heightened Kateland’s awareness of poverty on a global matter and influenced her to find a way to make a difference back home. Kateland brings a strong work ethic and compassionate heart in hopes of making a difference in Madison County.
Travis Doto from Middletown, Indiana graduated from Ball State University where he studied business information systems and English. He has volunteered with The Boys and Girls Club of Delaware County and The Animal Rescue Foundation. He is also a member of non-profits such as Oxfam, NRDC, and ASPCA to name just a few. He is driven to make a positive impact on his community and the people around him in any way that he can. Travis said, “I’m excited to begin this year of service and to help make a difference in my community.”
VISTAs receive a modest living allowance and health care coverage through the Corporation for National and Community Service during their year of service. Upon completion, they receive a choice of an education award or end-of-service stipend. Many VISTAs use the education award toward graduate studies.
VISTAs are full-time volunteers and are prohibited from engaging in outside employment. The work plan submitted by the sponsor must focus on alleviating poverty and must not include direct service or any activities that are support staff functions. Sponsors are required to submit periodic reports of work progress and to regularly certify that the VISTAs remain engaged with the organization.
About United Way of Madison County
United Way of Madison County is improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of community by focusing on the building blocks to a good life: Education, Income and Health. United Way of Madison County collaborates with over 35 local programs to create “Better Tomorrows” in Madison County. Governed by a 24 member volunteer board of directors, United Wayof Madison County has been a member in good standing of United Wayof Americasince 1973. For more information, contact 765-643-7493or visit our Web site at www.unitedwaymadisonco.org.
Source: United Way of Madison County
