How to Access In Service Training Money

IST, or In-Service Training funds are a resource that we encourage you as a VISTA to access in order to further your ability to effectively pursue your projects. Up to $500 can be used for training that relates directly to your project. These can be any kind of training class, seminar, or retreat that gives you skills that you can apply to your work at your host organization. However, there are several major restrictions imposed by the government that make this resource less than easy to use. We are here to provide you with a step-by-step process to make it as easy as possible.

The major restrictions for using IST monies are:

• Only available for the first 5 months of your service, so make use of it quickly.
• You must apply for a reimbursement of no less than $100 at a time, so you may have to bundle expenses together in order to receive payment.
• Training must be approved by your supervisor.
• Requests for training must be submitted at least 14 days before the training event, so make sure you get everything in on time.
• Unfortunately, you can only be reimbursed for the class itself, and not for travel or for training materials (unless they are provided to you as part of the primary cost of the class). Keep these other expenses in mind when shopping around for training opportunities.

So, what do you have to do in order to actually apply for it? Here's a step-by-step process:

1. At least 14 days prior to the training opportunity, submit a training request either by fax to (617) 565-8607 or by email to MA@cns.gov with the following information:
   • The name and cost of each training. Each request must total more than $100 worth of trainings.
   • A description of the training event, preferably with an included link to the event's website.
   • Place, time, and date.
   • A brief description of how exactly this training opportunity will be of benefit to you in your work.
   • Supervisor Approval: Indicate in the request that it was approved.. If you submit by fax have them sign the request, or if submitting by email, CC them on the submission.
2. You should receive a response from the CNCS state office by a week before the event about whether your request was approved or not. If you didn't get a response, make sure that you call Christine Robles at (617) 565-7017 or email her at crobles@cns.gov, because if you do not receive a written response in advance then you will not be reimbursed.
3. This is a reimbursement, so you or your organization will have to front the money for the training with the intent that you will be paid afterwards. Make sure to save any receipts from the event!
4. CNCS should provide a reimbursement voucher. Complete the voucher, and attach the original receipts from the event. If you don't have the original receipts, then the training organization must provide a letter on their organizational letterhead with the following information:
   • Title of the course.
   • Cost of the course.
   • The date the training was paid for by you or your organization.
   • Your name, with written confirmation of your registration.
   • The amount that you place on the voucher must be the same amount as in the letter or in the original receipts. If that is not the case, contact Christine Robles before submitting the voucher and receipts.
5. Finally, you will get your check. Checks are only made out to VISTA members, so if your organization fronted all or part of the money for the conference, it is your responsibility to reimburse them.