Stewards VISTA: LEAD Agency Y1

Ottawa County, Oklahoma, is home to the historic Tar Creek mining district, once one of the world¿s most productive lead and zinc regions. While the industry brought jobs and prosperity in its time, decades of mining left behind significant environmental challenges that still affect the land, water, and nearby communities. Many families live near areas impacted by this legacy, and the region continues to face economic hardship as it works toward recovery.

This VISTA project is focused on helping local leaders and organizations strengthen their long-term recovery efforts¿not by replacing local solutions, but by equipping communities with the tools and partnerships they need to succeed on their own terms. The goal is to build lasting capacity that reduces poverty, grows opportunity, and ensures that communities can plan and implement their own future.

The VISTA member will work with rural stakeholders to assess current needs, identify available resources, and lay out a clear strategy for long-term revitalization. They¿ll support efforts to secure outside funding, connect with regional partners, and coordinate outreach that brings residents into the process. While the environmental cleanup remains a long-term challenge, this position focuses on the people and places impacted¿helping communities build systems that work for them.

This is a hands-on opportunity to serve in a region that has given a lot to this country. The work centers on practical problem-solving, local leadership, and helping rural Oklahomans chart a more stable and prosperous path forward.