We’re proud to announce one of our Future Epicenter AmeriCorps VISTAs, Ashley Ross!!! Ashley has been in Green River for the past month as an intern, and now she’s helping out with the Community Center’s Summer Camp Program. In August, she’ll refocus back on Epicenter projects and we can’t wait to have her! Below are some questions from Epicenter and answers from Ashley so you can get to know her a little bit. Enjoy!

Why did you apply to work at Epicenter?

I was introduced to Epicenter by my former professor, Richard Saxton, who was a recent Frontier Fellow. I just graduated from college and I had no real concrete plans. The opportunity
to work with/at Epicenter just felt like something I should grab onto.

What are you most excited about in moving to Green River?

Living in a smaller community, meeting people and hearing their stories, basking in the landscape that Green River has to offer (i.e. the sunset on the Buttes), contributing to the town in any way that I can and NOT just “taking” from the experience. Oh, and Melon Days!

What are you most excited about in working at Epicenter?

Being able to help. And, I know that I am for everything that Epicenter is doing. I am eager to find a way to clearly and succinctly convey what it is that Epicenter does, and help to act on it.

What’s your favorite film/movie and why?

Hmm, this is always a tough one for me. As a kid it had to be Clueless or Mrs. Doubtfire (a classic!). Ever since I’ve seen Goodfellas, that has been an all time favorite. I love watching movies, but there are plenty that I have not seen and I MUST. Open for your suggestions!

Where are you from?

Queens, New York, and I am quite excited to experience this change of pace.

Where did you attend college and what did you study? What did you learn?

I went to school at The University of Colorado, Boulder and I studied Studio Arts and Sociology. I think I am still trying to figure out all that I have learned. Technically, with my arts degree, I learned how to do printmaking, metalsmithing, wheelthrowing, welding. On the other hand, my sociology degree has not given me such an obvious set of tangible skills. Mostly it has shaped the way that I view the world. It has given me a desire to try to make things better- whatever that may be.

Do you eat to live or live to eat?

I am a total foodie, and I live to eat. Much of my days thoughts consist of: what will I eat next?

Come and work in the beautiful desert of Utah for a full year (August 2012 through July 2013)!!! The Epicenter is a resource center focused on providing affordable housing assistance, small business resources, and creative design services in Green River, Utah. Our self-renovated office is currently staffed by three full-time employees dedicated to serving all of our town’s residents. We’re located in Broadway in the center of Green River right next to the Amtrak stop.

Working at Epicenter isn’t your average VISTA position. You will receive hands-on experience working directly with Epicenter, the City of Green River, the Green River Chamber of Commerce, United Way, Business Expansion and Retention (BEAR) program of Emery County, the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development of Utah (USDA), Emery County Economic Development, and many more of our partner organizations. You will co-lead projects that provide resources for local businesses, develop community programs, and develop resources for Epicenter. This position’s focus will be that of economic and community development, expounding upon the existing Epicenter programs and initiatives. Community outreach and Epicenter resource development will also be a component of the job description. A full VISTA Assignment Description (VAD) is available by e-mailing info@ruralandproud.org; applicant specialties and interests will be taken into account when finalizing the VAD.

Expectations are high and deadlines & budgets are tight, but we also know how to have fun in Green River. During the summer, if we’re not in the office you’ll find us at Swasey’s Beach basking in the sun and enjoying the canyon breeze. During the winter, if we’re not in the office you’ll find us having a dance party in the basement just to keep warm. Working at Epicenter is a life style, a 24/7 commitment. It will change your attitude about how you’re living life. You’ll forever be addicted to making a difference in your community. Guaranteed.

Applications should be submitted online at the AmeriCorps website. Additionally, resumes and a statement of interest should be submitted by e-mail to info@ruralandproud.org.

Applications must be submitted online and resumes/letter received by May 10th at 5pm MST.

AmeriCorps VISTA members provide a year of full-time service to the community. A living stipend is provided, along with an educational award or cash award at successful completion of service. For more information on VISTA, please see the AmeriCorps website.

Create a 60 second video that tells a compelling, impactful story about how AmeriCorps Works and the effect AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps projects have on local communities and the nation. Anyone want to collaborate on this with us? We’re pretty busy, but who can pass up the chance to win $4,000 or $1,000 for Epicenter?! Entries are due on July 1st. Go here for all the details.