Supporting Community Development for All People

As the Engagement VISTA at Community Development for All People (CD4AP), Kayla Long’s goal has been to advance the visibility and effectiveness of programs offered by her site. In service of this mission, she has leveraged social media, community partnerships, and volunteers.

Although the pace of her work has sometimes felt slow, Kayla has come to reframe her goals and expectations, and she feels proud of her contributions as a VISTA. One of her most significant professional accomplishments has been participating in the Health Literacy Learning Collaborative. She has also been proud to earn a Certificate in Digital Marketing & Fundraising, as well as a Certificate in Social Media Marketing & Fundraising. She is grateful for the opportunities she has had to grow professionally through service and is excited to carry these skills into future professional pursuits.

“I certainly would recommend national service to others, especially young people unsure of what career path to venture into,” Kayla says. “This experience has provided me with knowledge and growth that I wouldn’t otherwise have. I am beyond grateful for the opportunities that AmeriCorps has provided for me.”

Kayla’s service has also provided her with a deeper understanding of her community. Although she was born and raised in Columbus, being a VISTA has still impacted her perspective of her city.

“Personally speaking,” she says, “my level of respect for disenfranchised community members has only grown, and I plan to continue lifting up my community throughout my career.”

Kayla believes that her capacity-building efforts will make a difference at CD4AP for years to come, and she plans on continuing to make an impact by completing an additional service year after finishing this term.

Great work, Kayla, and thanks for your service!