Common Roots, Inc. AmeriCorps VISTA – Development & Revenue Diversification South Burlington, VT · Full time Company website

Build systems that increase and diversify funding to support programs serving low-income households.

About Common Roots, Inc.

Common Roots is a nonprofit organization based in South Burlington, Vermont, working at the intersection of farming, nutrition education, and community food access. Our mission is to build a thriving local food system and healthy community through farming and nutrition education for all ages, where every person has equitable access to nourishing food they enjoy. We operate a diversified organic farm and a range of community-based programs that connect people to fresh food, hands-on learning, and each other. Our work includes Farm to School education, community meals, youth programming, and partnerships with local organizations to expand access to healthy food. As an organization, we are focused on building systems that create long-term impact—strengthening how food is grown, distributed, and accessed across our community.

Description

About the Role

The Development & Revenue Diversification VISTA will strengthen Common Roots’ long-term financial sustainability. This role focuses on building systems that support fundraising, donor engagement, and diversified revenue strategies.


Key Responsibilities

  • Research fundraising approaches and opportunities
  • Develop systems to track grants, donors, and funding opportunities
  • Support development of a fundraising strategy including grants, events, and partnerships
  • Develop processes for donor stewardship and engagement
  • Evaluate existing fee-for-service programs and opportunities

Example Projects

  • Build a grant pipeline and tracking system
  • Develop a case for support connecting funding to impact
  • Create a plan for fundraising events and partnerships

Required Skills & Experience

  • Strong writing and organizational skills
  • Ability to research and synthesize information
  • Interest in fundraising, strategy, or nonprofit development
  • Ability to manage multiple projects

Preferred / Desired Skills

  • Experience with writing, fundraising, or communications
  • Interest in nonprofit finance or strategy
  • Experience with data tracking or CRM systems

What You’ll Gain

  • Experience building fundraising systems and strategies
  • Exposure to nonprofit financial sustainability and development
  • Skills in grant writing, donor engagement, and strategic planning

About Common Roots

Common Roots is building a thriving local food system and healthy community through farming and nutrition education for all ages, where every person has equitable access to nourishing food they enjoy.


Compensation & Benefits

This is an AmeriCorps VISTA position. Members receive a living allowance (~$1,800–$2,000/month), a Segal Education Award (~$7,395) or end-of-service stipend, health coverage, and professional development opportunities.