By Lucia Cappella
In March 2024, I joined SLATE-Z as a Communications Associate through the Americorps VISTA program. I was a fresh college grad, and though I had some experience with social impact communications, I knew I wanted to spend my year of service trying my hand at various roles within the nonprofit space. I hoped I would get the chance to at SLATE-Z.
Soon after joining the SLATE-Z team, it became clear that this was a great place for someone with my goals. Since it is a small organization, there are lots of opportunities to wear multiple hats. SLATE-Z’s role as a convening organization also means the staff regularly collaborates with other community-based organizations, federal and state agencies, and foundations, providing exposure to a wide variety of social impact career pathways.
In addition to my communications tasks, I jumped into the Transit Workgroup facilitator role, helping to set agendas and facilitate meetings that push forward SLATE-Z’s goals around transit – one of their five levers of change. Since taking on this role, I've had numerous opportunities to attend in-person events, like the annual Move LA conference, which took place at historic Biltmore Hotel. I loved getting to listen in on panels about exciting topics in transportation, like the legacy of the 2028 Olympic Games, all while surrounded by the folks passionate about transforming transit in LA.
Another of SLATE-Z's initiatives I help to support is called Cultural Treasures of South LA. By just sitting in on meetings for this initiative, I get to watch collaboration between a diverse group of professionals unfold, including folks from the Department of Cultural Affairs, Neighborhood Data for Social Change, Community Coalition, and LA Commons. Through exposure to their work, I am learning how my interests in communications, arts, and activism can be combined and turned into a career.
SLATE-Z is an interesting and strategic place from which to launch a career, but it’s also a wonderful place to spend a year of service. With a warm, collaborative, and passionate team, I felt instantly welcome. Prospective VISTA’s, definitely apply!