AmeriCorps VISTA: Providence, RI 2002 – 2003

My year as an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer helped shape and inspire the core of my career choices that I have made in the past 10 years. My year’s service was with the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) Museum. I served as the museum’s Community Programs Assistant. In this position, I was able to design and develop educational programs that brought the museum’s artwork into different communities throughout the state of Rhode Island using a variety of engagement techniques.

Below are the three main programs that I worked on during my year of service.

Wheels of Wonder mobile arts and literacy program:  Developed and implemented museum-based art and literacy activities out of a converted public library book-mobile. This mobile educational program served libraries, community centers, and festivals throughout the state of Rhode Island.

Artist in Residency in Providence Public Libraries and Schools: Taught “Literacy Through Photography” programs that included bookmaking, basic photography, and literacy skills to elementary students with disabilities

Arts engagement and healing programs: Hasbro Childrens’ Hospital:  Conducted a series of arts and crafts workshops in the oncology, ambulatory service, and dental clinics at the Hasbro Childrens’ Hospital.