VISTA Members Play A Role In Addressing Poverty In New Mexico

October 16, 2015 – New Mexico is a poor state. The latest figures from the US Census estimate that 20 percent of New Mexicans are currently living in poverty.

There are many ways to address poverty and we often sit down with local leaders to talk about programs that are working to support young people and families who are struggling financially. Last week, Ona Porter from Prosperity Works told us about the Prosperity Kids savings program.

This week, NMiF producer Sarah Gustavus sits down with Curtis Cannon, executive director of the New Mexico Commission for Community Volunteerism, and Michael J. Garcia, state program director for the Corporation for National & Community Service. Both Cannon, Garcia and Gustavus all served as AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers. They talk about the history of the program and how a year of national service can impact an individual, nonprofit organizations and communities.