The CHASM Family Resource Center is looking for five high school graduates interested in working full-time to assist Dallas County’s various community outreach agencies.

CHASM-which stands for Caring, Helping, Aiding, Supporting and Mentoring-recently received a grant to hire five employees for an AmeriCorps VISTA program.

The AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service To America) members would work under the guidance of CHASM Executive Director Rev. Carl Rawls to help other agencies solve problems such as outreach and public relations, grant writing, youth development and volunteer development.

“They will not have to do tutoring or hands-on building,” Rawls said. “They will be working independently with agencies on resource development and creating stability.”

Rawls said CHASM plans to hire two AmeriCorps VISTA members in June, and another three in April.

Each AmeriCorps VISTA member would receive a stipend, money for education, and, if needed, relocation assistance and childcare.

Applicants for the program must be at least 18-years-old or older, cannot be employed or in school full-time, and have computer skills and experience in recruiting and fundraising.

“With AmeriCorps VISTA, we are able to expand our resources,” Rawls said. “CHASM will serve as an umbrella agency to help these other organizations.”

Rawls said he is specifically looking for people who have good communication skills, are hard workers and self-motivated.

Those interested in applying for the program should contact Rawls at 334-875-3285.