There are a number of topics that you would be well advised to cover during orientation, even if you plan to follow up later in the year through ongoing member development.

Of course, these depend on the particular circumstances of your program and staff. However, check out the following topics to see if they are appropriate for your orientation.

• Site orientation–See how different programs familiarize new members with their placement sites.
• Service preparedness–Adapt this PowerPoint, "Getting Geared Up for Service," to give an overview of AmeriCorps and VISTA service.
• Introduction to life as a VISTA member–Discover ways to help members explore the day-to-day personal challenges of VISTA.
• Orientation to community–Make sure your members get to know the local community, its issues, and opportunities.
• Reflection on member's history and reasons for choosing service–View video segments on a "Wall of History" activity, which is used at the beginning, middle, and end of service as a reflection and team building vehicle.
• Program orientation (history, culture, mission, etc.)–What's your program all about? Explore ways to help your members answer that question and carry out your mission every day.
• Inspiration–Service is inspiring, and understanding the role that inspiration plays can help make the year a success. Use this exercise to boost your members' motivation and inspiration.
• Warm-ups and Ice-breakers–Incorporate warm-up activities and ice breakers to help members get to know each other and feel part of a team.
• Risk management–See one program's risk management guidelines that you might want to adapt for your own program.

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