What sort of time commitment does the fellowship require?

Participation in the fellowship is a full-time commitment, for an entire year. As an AmeriCorps*VISTA members, Fellows are on call 24/7.  However, you will work at least 40 hours a week Monday through Friday.  Yet, fellows may be required to attend various meetings and training sessions during the evenings and on weekends. While you are participating in the program you can’t be in school nor have another job. Traditionally, the fellowship operates in a one-year cycle, beginning in August and ending in August of the following year. Based on exemplary performance during the first one-year cycle, some fellows will have the privilege to be invited back into the program for a second year.

Who supervises the fellows?

The Cesar E. Chavez Fellows are supervised by the Community Service Division of the National Farm Workers Service Center, Inc.  The National Farm Workers Service Center is a not-for-profit organization that develops and provides affordable and quality housing for Latino and underserved families. For more information regarding the National Farm Workers Service Center, please refer to Contact Information.

What are the benefits of participating in the fellowship?

As a fellow you receive a monthly living allowance (between $800-900/month depending on location), medical benefits, and upon completion of your one-year fellowship you will be eligible to receive an educational award ($4725), which can be used toward student loans or tuition, offered through AmeriCorps*VISTA. In addition to this, the National Farm Workers Service Center will provide FREE housing while you are doing your fellowship. Work-related expenses are also covered, as well as any travel required by the fellowship; periodically, fellows will have the opportunity to travel for trainings.