Community Outreach
The Attorney General's Office has launched a community outreach program to serve the growing number of Hoosiers who are facing problems. This program is designed to bring services to the front lines for the citizens of our communities who are most in need. The program is executed by 13 Volunteers In Service To America (VISTA) members.
Underserved populations within the state such as the elderly, low-income, mentally and physically disabled, new immigrants, those without Internet access, homeless and the unemployed are the focus of the VISTA outreach. During an economic downturn, an even greater need exists to reach out to those in need to help educate and prevent them from becoming victims and offer assistance to those who have fallen victim.
VISTA members identify the communities in greatest need of assistance by working directly with the pro bono commission, not-for-profits, Triad groups, church groups, community-based organizations and township trustees.
Foreclosure prevention and identity theft prevention are believed to be among the two greatest needs statewide. However, based on the varying needs in each community, VISTA members tailor the services and education materials they provide in their outreach. These services include:
- Foreclosure Prevention Services
- How to contact the Indiana Foreclosure Prevention Network for free mortgage counseling advice
- When to request a settlement conference if you receive a foreclosure notice from your lender
- How to spot and avoid foreclosure consultant scams
- How to contact a pro bono attorney in your area
- Who is eligible for loan modification assistance or restitution under the Countrywide settlement
- Consumer Protection Services
- Understanding and preventing identity theft
- Why Medicaid fraud affects you and how to spot it
- How to respond to patient abuse and neglect
- When and how to file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office
- On-site Services
- Do Not Call list sign up
- Consumer Alert sign up
- Unclaimed Property database search
The VISTA national service program was founded in 1965 and was designed specifically to fight poverty. In 1993 VISTA was incorporated into the AmeriCorps network of programs. The Corporation for National & Community Service, or CNCS, is the federal agency responsible for the deployment of VISTA resources.
VISTA members commit to serve full-time for one year at a non profit organization or local government agency, working to fight illiteracy, improve health services, create businesses and strengthen community groups.
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