Chris Fastner is VISTA Program Manager for the Initiative Foundation in Little Falls, Minnesota (www.ifound.org). In this role, he coordinates a regional AmeriCorps*VISTA project, overseeing 20 full-time VISTA members placed in nonprofits and government agencies to help them fight poverty in central Minnesota. Prior to joining the Initiative Foundation, Fastner spent more than a dozen years working for the St. Paul and Brainerd YMCAs. He served as program director for YMCA Camp du Nord, youth development program coordinator for YMCA Earth Service Corps, membership/marketing director for the Northeast Family YMCA and program director for the Brainerd YMCA. Additionally, as a former training consultant, Fastner developed and delivered tailored training programs in the areas of leadership development and personal growth. All of his work experience has, in one form or another, involved volunteers and volunteer management. Fastner enjoys sharing the lessons he’s learned about working with volunteers and deeply appreciates learning from others their “secrets and tips” for engaging community members in the important work of nonprofits.
