The final cohort of the Serve Philadelphia VISTA Corps program will complete their service in a few weeks. Over the past 11 months, VISTA members worked in City departments to build capacity for anti-poverty initiatives.

The Serve Philadelphia VISTA Corps team hosted the program’s annual Lightning Talks last month. Lightning Talks are quick presentations about VISTA members’ projects, challenges, and accomplishments.

2025-2026 VISTA Lightning Talks

Group poses for photo at VISTA Lightning Talks
VISTA members presented Lighting Talks on July 15. Learn more about some of this year’s projects by reading the highlights below.

Peyton Carr, Infant and Toddler Homelessness Resource VISTA with Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS)

Peyton streamlined referral processes between service providers who support families with young children and provide early intervention services. One of her accomplishments included developing a referral training module that was presented at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Peyton is pursuing her Master of Public Administration (MPA) in quantitative policy analytics at the Fels Institute of Government at the University of Pennsylvania.

Tai Jeffers, Philly Reading Coaches (PRC) Volunteer Coordination VISTA with Office of Children and Families (OCF)

Tai expanded the volunteer recruitment system for the City’s Philly Reading Coaches program. Volunteers help young readers increase their reading skills and confidence. Tai recruited 30 Philly Reading Coach volunteers, while also learning that being introverted doesn’t mean she can’t build relationships and create connections.

Tristan Cripps, Volunteer Engagement and Workforce Development VISTA with Riverfront North Partnership

Tristan established workforce development services for Riverfront North’s interns and Same Day Work and Pay participants. New resources include interview practice, resume writing, and help navigating City career services. Tristan is joining Riverfront North as a program coordinator!

Nikita Bharati, Career Pathways VISTA with Mayor’s Office of Education

Nikita researched career pathway strategies that reduce the time and cost of obtaining college credentials. During her time with the Mayor’s Office of Education, Nikita outlined the impact of early college credits on earnings and bachelor’s degree completion. However, not all students have equitable access to these strategies. Nikita is moving to the U.K. as a Fulbright Scholar to pursue a Master of Science (MSc) in nutrition and food science.

Serve Philadelphia VISTA Corps program ends

This year’s Lightning Talks were especially important because they marked the end of the Serve Philadelphia VISTA Corps. The VISTA program transitions into the Philadelphia Public Service Fellowship in September. Commemorating the end of the program, we looked back on the impact of 16 years of service:

  • VISTA members leveraged $3.4 million in cash and in-kind resources.
  • VISTA members recruited and managed 377,258 volunteers, which resulted in over 720,000 total volunteer hours.
  • VISTA members served 766,590 hours. The total value of these service hours is $24.9 million.

We’re proud of our 370+ program alumni! Follow us on Instagram at @Phlserves to see more stories from our current members and alumni.

Visit the Philadelphia Public Service Fellowship page for up-to-date information.