AmeriCorps VISTAs at UH Mānoa – University of Hawaii at Manoa

Join over 7,000 AmeriCorps members in the VISTA program who serve annually to alleviate poverty by helping local organizations expand capacity to make change. You can serve in any U.S. state or territory.

As an AmeriCorps member in the VISTA program, you will support an organization to make sustainable change in areas that effect poverty, including education, public health, climate, access to benefits, and more. Through activities such as fundraising, grant writing, research, and volunteer recruitment, you will gain professional experience and leadership skills. This opportunity prepares you for a life of service in the public, private, or nonprofit sector.

Meet Your VISTA Team!

Brianna Donnelly

Aloha! My name is Brianna Donnelly and I was born and raised in Philadelphia. I have also lived in Florida for 10 years. I studied Elementary Education at American University in Washington, D.C. I graduated in 2008 and have been an educator for the past 15 years. I have taught preschool elementary, middle school English, and physical education. I have also taught and lived abroad in South Korea, Panama, and Mexico City.

However, now, I am no longer teaching but know one of my purposes in life is to serve others. Therefore, AmeriCorps fits into my purpose. I am working for the Center of Resilient Neighborhoods with Kapi’olani Community College students along with communities on the island of Oahu.

Aloha! My name is Phil Lampron. I grew up in Connecticut and went to school at Post University, earning a B.S. degree in Management. I first worked in IT management, while also working as a photojournalist. Photography contract work included ESPN, Chicago Bears Report and Green Bay Packer Report. Covered the Yankees, Mets, Giants. Jets, Knicks, Nets, Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, as well as professional boxing.

Served as House Photographer for the prestigious Mohegan Sun Casino, covering high-end sports and entertainment. Recognized by People Magazine and US Weekly, among others, for Top Photos of the Year in 2007 for shots of a then very pregnant Jennifer Lopez. Also produced and hosted a weekly cable access sports television program for 10 years.

Joined the Peace Corps in 2008 and spent four years in Macedonia. Other volunteer experiences include: Habitat for Humanity in Macedonia, Mozambique, Budapest, and Kyrgyzstan. Also served as an VISTA volunteer for Food Bank of Alaska, Maya Angelou Schools in D.C, and Trinity Cafe (Dining with Dignity soup kitchen) in Tampa, as a Communications Specialist.

Recently been inducted into the Connecticut Fastpitch Softball Hall of Fame.

Phil Lampron

Christopher Pascua

Aloha! I'm Christopher Pascua, a VISTA member with the Center for Resilient Neighborhoods in O'ahu, Hawai'i. I have enjoyed being immersed in the Civic Engagement ecosystem for the last few years, I recently completed my undergraduate degree, and completed a project focusing my research on the needs of vulnerable community groups. Now, gearing up for a Master's in Public Administration post my VISTA term, my journey is driven by a passion for resilience and community engagement. Eager to integrate my experiences in resiliency and civic engagement, I aim to apply this knowledge to shape a more vibrant and resilient O'ahu. I have held two summer VISTA terms, and I'm enthusiastic about using these acquired skills and experiences to contribute to the brighter future I envision for my community. Committed to blending practical insights with my future academic learning, I aim to push O'ahu towards increased resilience and a bright future for all peoples.

Aloha! My name is Cleopatra Tauanu'u. I am from Honolulu, Hawai’i; Currently attending Kapi’olani Community College’s Hospitality and Tourism program. Before this I was a stay-at-a-home for the past 3 years; But thankfully, I found my way back to school and with the help of my counselors I landed this opportunity to serve those in need. My family and I were struck with homelessness in the beginning of 2023 Fall semester, so the struggle of keeping up with school, two kids, and maintaining a healthy overall well-being was borderline. This VISTA position allows me to not only provide income for my family but in return I get to supply the needy with sustenance. One of the projects that we are working on here at KCC is our Pohukaina food pantry. It is open to the community and exclusively KCC students.

Writing is my favorite hobby; I love to express myself through words; One day I will become an author and share my experience on this planet to be remembered by.

Cleopatra Tauanu'u

With AmeriCorps VISTA, you’ll address community challenges where the need is greatest. Serve in an office setting and help fight poverty while building your professional skills and earning additional benefits.

VISTA Position Options

Member
As a member in the VISTA program, you serve full time for one-year. You will build capacity in nonprofit organizations and public agencies to help them more effectively generate the commitment of private sector resources, encourage volunteer service at the local level, and empower individuals and communities. Find a service opportunity that fits your interests.

Leader
Have you previously served a full term of full-time service with any AmeriCorps program or with Peace Corps and demonstrate exemplary skills and leadership in community service? If so, you can expand and build the capacity of individual members serving in AmeriCorps VISTA while deepening your skills as a VISTA leader. Search for leader opportunities.

Summer Associate
Looking for a summer opportunity? The AmeriCorps VISTA Summer Associate program offers you the opportunity to become engaged in a community through an existing AmeriCorps VISTA project for 8, 9, or 10 weeks during the summer starting in May and ending no later than early September.

For more information, please visit the AmeriCorps VISTA website by clicking here: VISTA

Join thousands of members in the AmeriCorps VISTA program who are united in our mission to lift people and communities out of poverty.

APPLY TODAY!