“Gathering with individuals from various backgrounds to help the greater good was inspiring. VISTA helped me grow and learn to look at the things going on in my backyard from a different perspective.” - Krystina Robinson (VISTA for Opioid Prevention, Grundy Safe Communities Coalition, 2018-2019)
“By far my favorite part of my VISTA experience was having my world view challenged by the people I met and worked with. As a recent college grad, I had very little “real world” experience and the VISTA program allowed me to explore my interests in public health, meet all kinds of new people, and learn and grow with the support of a fantastic cohort of peers and mentors. My VISTA project, The South Cumberland Summer Meals program, taught me the valuable skills I needed to be able to get further employment in grant coordination and public health work, and was essential in kick starting my career. Because of the work I did and the people I met in this program, I was inspired to pursue a Masters of Social Work degree with a concentration in food justice work. […] …my experiences in VISTA offered an important context to my work that highlights how all social determinants of health are linked, and that we collectively cannot solve one health issue without simultaneously addressing all others. I’m so thankful for the VISTA program and all of the caring, hardworking, and passionate characters I met whilst there.” - Liz Zaunick (VISTA for Hunger Relief & Literacy, Office of Civic Engagement, 2016-2017)
“My time as a VISTA made me a more empathetic citizen, friend, and (future) lawyer. I’m grateful for the experiences that I had and people that I met.” - Teressa Colhoun (VISTA for Community Outreach, serving at Grundy Safe Communities Coalition, 2020-2021)
“One of my favorite memories of being a VISTA was the ”Make A Difference Day”! It was such a wonderful event and I enjoyed watching the school and our team come together to repaint Swiss Memorial's cafeteria!... I am so grateful for the experience and skills that I gained while serving as a VISTA member and VISTA Leader!” - Julianna McBee (VISTA for Attendance & Academic Success, Grundy County Schools, 2018-2019 & SCP-VISTA Leader, 2019-2020)
“My VISTA experience allowed me to create life-long connections with other VISTAs, community partners, and key community leaders. I am thankful for my time and experience serving on the plateau.” - Morgan Peterson (VISTA for Communications & Outreach, South Cumberland Community Fund, 2016-2017)
