Maker VISTA is dedicated to eradicating poverty and supports Maker Ed’s mission to create more – and equal – opportunities for all young people to develop confidence, creativity, and interest in science, technology, engineering, art, and math, and learning as whole through making.
Maker VISTA members develop the capacity of partner sites (schools, community centers, other non-profit organizations) in high-need communities by building infrastructure, expanding partnerships, securing resources, organizing maker education training, and connecting youth and educators to the maker movement.
VISTA members work behind the scenes and therefore do not work in direct service to/with youth. Rather, they problem-solve, research, connect, document, troubleshoot, and coordinate in an effort to improve, expand and amplify the reach and impact of educators, school systems, and community partners.
Maker VISTA members apply what they know, learn what they need, and take on new challenges to grow the capacity and maker landscape of partner sites. Together, Maker VISTA members and our partners are creating and evolving sustainable, inclusive, and accessible maker-centered learning environments.
The Maker VISTA program began in November 2013, and since then we have worked with 20 partner sites and 40 VISTA Members.
Maker VISTA is made possible with generous support from the Corporation for National and Community Service.