Holistic Defense Development AmeriCorps VISTA

Want to make a real impact while gaining hands-on experience at the intersection of law, social work, and public policy? Join the Missouri State Public Defender (MSPD) as a Holistic Defense Development VISTA and be a part of the transformative shift toward holistic public defense. Many MSPD clients face criminal charges stemming from circumstances caused by poverty and unmet behavioral health needs. Once they enter the criminal legal system, these issues are only exacerbated. Holistic defense seeks to address these clients’ underlying needs beyond traditional legal representation, working to break the cycle of criminalization. Although this is a great opportunity for those considering law school, no law degree is required, just a passion for social justice and a commitment to learning.

The VISTAs’ primary goal will be to collaborate with attorneys, social workers, AmeriCorps Holistic Advocates, and MSPD leadership to build up the holistic practices at MSPD by increasing MSPD’s capacity to address client needs, improving the wellbeing and economic opportunity of clients, and winning better case outcomes. VISTAs will develop skills in data collection and analysis, grant writing and reporting, communications and design, resource mapping, and developing community partnerships while building a network of professional contacts in the legal and advocacy fields.

Specifically, VISTA members will:

• Develop an understanding of criminal law/public defense and the problems afflicting MSPD clients
• Build up the Holistic Defense Services unit to increase service offerings and enhance best practices
• Maintain and build upon existing program partnerships, resources, guides and manuals
• Develop a framework for maintaining and expanding grant funding, training initiatives, and volunteer networks related to the holistic representation of MSPD clients, and more

Qualified candidates will be inquisitive, collaborative, resourceful, open-minded, effective at expressing complex concepts, and passionate about public service. Preferred candidates will have demonstrated interest in social work, the law, criminal justice, or psychology and have strong computer skills. A one-year commitment is required, and volunteers will begin their service term in the summer of 2025.

Program Benefits

Full-time VISTA members will receive a living allowance of $24,894 for the duration of their service and a choice between an end-of-service-stipend ($1,800) or an AmeriCorps Education Award ($7,395). Many universities offer scholarships, application fee waivers, and other benefits to AmeriCorps members.

Other benefits include health coverage, childcare assistance if eligible, 13 paid holidays, 4-day work week, MSPD training events, and relocation allowance when applicable.

Potential Placement Locations

MSPD VISTAs may serve in Kansas City, St. Louis, or Columbia. St. Louis and Kansas City are preferred.

APPLY TODAY!

Please submit your application through the AmeriCorps service listing.