Community Engagement Coordinator

Job Type
Advocacy
Organization
Way Finders
Address

1780 Main Street
Springfield, MA
United States

Job Description

Community Engagement Coordinator

At Way Finders, we are passionately invested in lifting up the region’s people, places, and systems. Though our team performs a wide variety of functions, we are united by our shared mission: to build and advocate for a thriving and equitable region; to improve the stability and economic mobility of families and individuals; and to develop and manage a robust range of safe, affordable housing options.

Every day, our team helps people facing real challenges—with housing, jobs, personal finances, and other cornerstones of daily stability—to find real solutions. And we help communities and systems to grow in positive, strategic ways. We know that the right help at the right time can make all the difference; Way Finders provides transformative help to tens of thousands of people each year. Always with respect, always with compassion.

Interested in joining our team of dedicated professionals? Way Finders is currently seeking a full-time Community Engagement CoordinatorThe Community Engagement Coordinator furthers our mission by leading the day-to-day activities of a program that interconnects staff, community residents, local officials, and stakeholders, focusing on resource education/distribution, training/mentoring, and assistance.  The Coordinator leads efforts on varying initiatives to promote vibrant neighborhoods and improve quality-of-life through a collaborative, grassroots approach.

The candidate will work largely onsite and throughout their assigned neighborhoods.  Occasional remote work will be allowed as scheduled and appropriate.

Responsibilities include:

  • Lead program activities in a manner that facilitates collaboration; supports both the organization's mission and project/initiative goals; and increases community engagement in measurable ways
  • Coordinate involvement in iniatives designed to improve resident health through multiple neighborhood improvement strategies
  • Identify and develop relationships with resident leaders, resident-led, and community-based organizations and businesses through participation and collaboration in community activities
  • Foster collaboration in communities through the facilitation of regular, focused meetings
  • Identify, develop, and maintain relationships with resident leaders; resident-led and community-based organizations; and businesses; attend networking activities; provide clear and appropriate training, support, and resources
  • Administer program marketing that best reaches residents, including door-knocking; meetings; flyer and literature distribution; and social media; plan distribution as appropriate; manage quality control and supply levels
  • Conduct focused, dynamic outreach that works toward project/initiative goals; use active listening skills to help determine future opportunities for community building and engagement
  • Update required and relevant data points in system(s) with timeliness and accuracy; prepare and distribute reports as requested
  • Assist management/leadership in identifying, developing, and maintaining positive relationships with local officials and municipal leaders
  • Attend community events and neighborhood fairs to promote the organization and increase community-building opportunities; meet with municipal leaders as assigned and appropriate
  • Assist in the development and maintenance of a formalized volunteer program; coordinate volunteer orientations, trainings, and scheduling; oversee data on the volunteer program, including reports and analysis
  • Train and mentor staff and AmeriCorps Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) members; provide support and timely feedback; report possible policy infractions and performance issues to supervisor(s) in a timely fashion
  • Establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with staff (including across departments), funding sources, constituents, and stakeholders
  • Proactively identify and inform management/leadership of any significant issues that may adversely affect the program or organization
  • Remain current on trends in community development and engagement

Requirements include:

  • 3 years' experience in community development or a related field; a combination of similar experience plus an Associate degree may be a substitute
  • Adept with Microsoft Office applications, including those that support marketing efforts, and comfort learning and training others on new technologies
  • Advanced organizational skills with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail, plus the ability to reprioritize for self and staff to meet deadlines
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to work with diverse populations
  • Driver's license with acceptable driving record; reliable vehicle
  • Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred but not required
  • CORI

Benefits include:  Generous paid time-off | 12+ holidays annually | Health, dental, and vision insurance options | Educational assistance | Medical Reimbursement Account | Dependent Care Account | 403(b) retirement plan with employer match | Life insurance | Short-term and long-term disability insurance | Transportation benefits | Employee Assistance Program | Annual staff picnic!

Wage starts between $24.00 and $29.00 per hour depending on qualifications. Interested applicants must submit a resume and cover letter; applications will be accepted until the position is filled. CORI/MVR.

Way Finders is an Equal Opportunity Employer that seeks a diverse staff in order to reflect our community and those we serve. Qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is available to all without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, disability, age, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or veteran status. We provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals. 

Application Instruction

APPLICATIONS WILL ONLY BE ACCEPTED THROUGH THIS LINK - Careers | Way Finders