Want to make a real impact while gaining hands-on experience at the intersection of law, social work, and public policy? Join the Missouri State Public Defender (MSPD) as a Holistic Defense Development VISTA and be a part of the transformative shift toward holistic public defense. Many MSPD clients face criminal charges stemming from circumstances caused by poverty and unmet behavioral health needs. Once they enter the criminal legal system, these issues are only exacerbated. Holistic defense seeks to address these clients’ underlying needs beyond traditional legal representation, working to break the cycle of criminalization. Although this is a great opportunity for those considering law school, no law degree is required, just a passion for social justice and a commitment to learning. The VISTAs’ primary goal will be to collaborate with attorneys, social workers, AmeriCorps Holistic Advocates, and MSPD leadership to build up the holistic practices at MSPD by increasing MSPD’s capacity to address client needs, improving the wellbeing and economic opportunity of clients, and winning better case outcomes. VISTAs will develop skills in data collection and analysis, grant writing and reporting, communications and design, resource mapping, and developing community partnerships while building a network of professional contacts in the legal and advocacy fields. Qualified candidates will be inquisitive, collaborative, resourceful, open-minded, effective at expressing complex concepts, and passionate about public service. Preferred candidates will have demonstrated interest in social work, the law, criminal justice, or psychology and have strong computer skills. A one-year commitment is required, and volunteers may begin their service term in June, July, or August 2026. Placement is possible in St. Louis or Kansas City. Are you ready to make your service year count? Apply now and join us in creating a more just Missouri.
Member Duties : VISTAs will 1) Develop understanding of criminal law/public defense and the problems afflicting MSPD clients; 2) Build up the Holistic Defense Services unit to increase service offerings and enhance best practices; 3) Maintain and build upon existing program partnerships, resources, guides and manuals; 4) Manage various capacity building projects tailored to your skills and interests; and 5) Develop a framework for maintaining and expanding grant funding, training initiatives, and volunteer networks related to the holistic representation of MSPD clients, and more.
Program Benefits : Childcare assistance if eligible , Living Allowance , Relocation Allowance , Health Coverage* , Training , Education award upon successful completion of service , Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend .
Terms :
Permits attendance at school during off hours , Permits working at another job during off hours .
Skills :
Leadership , Fund raising/Grant Writing , Community Organization , Law , Writing/Editing , Communications , Team Work , Computers/Technology , Social Services .
Holistic Defense Development VISTA
Minimum: 18 Maximum: None
Program Locations
MISSOURI
From 03/24/2026 To 07/20/2026
