VISTAs engage in a number of activities designed to build the capacity of host organizations to meet the needs of people experiencing or at risk of poverty.  VISTAs engage in indirect service rather direct service.  Their focus is to  strengthen the community or organization to meet these long term needs.  Common VISTA activities include:

• Recruiting, and managing volunteers;

• Conducting needs and asset assessments; 

• Reaching out to targeted populations;

• Raising resources through grant writing and fund raising activities;

• Creating and/or strengthening strategic collaborative partnerships;

• Developing trainings and systems to improve quality and efficiency;

• Conducting public relations campaigns; and

• Developing and evaluating new programs or services.