This section provides the basics to get your VISTA orientation up and running. On-site orientation and training (OSOT) is the second step in the VISTA training continuum. It builds on knowledge introduced and developed at the Pre-Service Orientation. It:
- Introduces the member to the sponsor, community, goals and operation of the VISTA project
- Provides the basic knowledge and skills members need to get started.
OSOT outcomes
By the end of OSOT, your VISTA member should have gained:
Understanding of common expectations and agreements for working relationship between VISTA and supervisor:
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- Supervisor's other roles and responsibilities
- Supervisor's management style
- Meetings/Interactions between VISTA and supervisor
- Clear understanding of the lines of communication between VISTA and supervisor
- Clear understanding of the support provided to the member
- Clear on the terms and conditions of VISTA service
- Clear on the chain of command
Understanding of the culture and mission of the sponsoring organization:
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- History of organization
- Organizational mission
- How it functions as a non-profit, municipality, state, county or federal entity
- Its role in the community
- Introductions to staff
Knowledge of the bigger picture related to the VISTA project and the community:
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- The VISTA project and its history
- How and where does the VISTA fit into it all
- Introduction to the community
- The socio-economic and political structure
- Potential resources that can be applied to achieve project goals
- History and present status of community self-determination and problem-solving efforts
Understanding of the organization's VISTA Policy:
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- Roles and responsibilities
- Time and attendance, duty hours
- Annual leave
- Sick leave
- Mileage reimbursement policy and procedure
- Working with the media
- Fund raising activities
- Evaluation of individual VISTA and of the project
- Reporting requirements for the VISTA project
Developing a personal work plan with the supervisor that:
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- Specifies tasks and activities with goals and objectives in the project plan.
- Specifies training that builds upon PSO, OSOT, In Service Training and Close of Service activities and the personal and professional development of the VISTA member.
Building skills and knowledge needed to implement the Member Assignment Description:
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- Depending on the project, areas such as
- computer skills
- public speaking
- group facilitation
- conflict resolution
- needs assessment and asset mapping,
- proposal writing
- negotiation and interviewing skills
- Assignment-specific such as
- domestic violence hotlines
- early childhood literacy
- laws regarding foster care
- credit management
- micro-enterprise development
OSOT Agendas
Click here for sample OSOT agendas and planning materials that you can
adapt for your program.
OSOT Guidelines
Click here for guidelines on creating an efficient and meaningful OSOT.
OSOT FAQs
Click here to get answers to frequently asked questions.
OSOT Resource List
Click here for additional support and information.
Go on to VISTA OSOT Guidelines
