Help strengthen Iowa’s Community Action Agency network and the LIHEAP program by improving data systems, field–state coordination, and workflow consistency. As a full‑year VISTA, you will support the Iowa HHS Division of Community Access & Eligibility and local Community Action Agencies in modernizing processes that serve low‑income households across the state.
This role is ideal for individuals interested in public policy, human services, data systems, or community development. You will build long‑term capacity by improving Salesforce data processes, documenting field operations, researching best practices, and developing sustainable tools—such as workflow maps, data dictionaries, communication templates, and resource guides—used statewide.
The VISTA will spend time with local partners such as IMPACT, gaining real‑world insight into how LIHEAP and Community Action services operate. This experience will help shape statewide improvements, enhance alignment, and strengthen Iowa’s effectiveness in serving low‑income Iowans.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conduct LIHEAP and Salesforce data cleanup to identify inconsistencies and improve data quality
- Develop data dictionaries, documentation, and templates to support long‑term system maintenance
- Support analytics and create repeatable reporting methods
- Spend time with local CAAs (such as IMPACT) to observe operations and document field–state workflow gaps
- Create tools, templates, and feedback loops that enhance communication between CAAs and Iowa HHS
- Research national best practices for LIHEAP and Community Action programs
- Develop workflow maps, process documentation, standardized guides, and job aids
- Support modernization and strategic alignment of LIHEAP with Iowa HHS priorities
- Build sustainability tools, training materials, and a final project summary for long‑term use
- Collaborate with the HHS Volunteer Engagement Coordinator to identify volunteer-supported roles and develop training or onboarding tools that strengthen agency capacity
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:
-
Strong research, documentation, and information‑gathering skills
- Comfort with data systems, workflow mapping, or process analysis
- Excellent communication and ability to engage with community partners
- Interest in human services, public policy, technology, or community systems
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams
Timeframe:
- Length of Commitment: 1 Year, Full‑Time VISTA Term
- Scheduling: Monday–Friday, standard business hours
- Worksite: Central Office (Des Moines) with hybrid options; travel to CAAs as needed
Benefits of Serving:
- Professional development and mentorship from Iowa HHS staff
- First‑hand experience with statewide human services operations
- Hands‑on involvement in data systems, community engagement, and process improvement
- Connections with CAAs, HHS divisions, and community partners
- A meaningful service year that strengthens your skills and future career opportunities
AmeriCorps VISTA Benefits:
- Living allowance paid biweekly
- End‑of‑service award (Segal Education Award or cash stipend)
- Relocation assistance if eligible
- Health coverage*
- Childcare assistance if eligible
- Access to AmeriCorps training and career development resources
*For details about VISTA healthcare benefits, visit https://americorpsvista.imglobal.com/.
Volunteer Agrees To:
- Follow guidelines provided by Iowa HHS and AmeriCorps VISTA
- Maintain a professional and respectful approach across all partner interactions
- Dedicate sufficient time and energy to meet position expectations
- Acknowledge that this is an AmeriCorps VISTA service position, not employment
