2022-2023 Volunteer Coordinator VISTA (FULL-TIME AmeriCorps member)

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Chicago HOPES for Kids provides after-school academic support to children and families living in homeless shelters and underserved communities across Chicago. Our program consists of three major components: homework help, individual reading support, and enrichment activities. Our curriculum is rooted in Social-Emotional Learning and Trauma-informed practices allowing for a focus not just on individual academic needs, but providing a whole-child approach.

Overall VISTA Project:

Chicago HOPES for Kids is seeking a VISTA member who is interested in supporting students experiencing homelessness by creating and expanding programs designed to empower our students and families holistically. The goal of our project is threefold:
1.)To expand the Chicago HOPES for Kids academic and enrichment program to additional shelters in Chicago.
2.) To strengthen and further develop the structure and components of our existing program.
3.)To create a sustainable model for community outreach and diversify our volunteer opportunities.

Objective Description:

The VISTA Volunteer Coordinator service goal is to expand awareness and support for the Chicago HOPES for Kid's mission and organization. VISTA members assigned to this project will build capacity throughout Chicago to develop and expand volunteer, community, and outreach efforts while ensuring all efforts are sustainable. Additionally, the VISTA member will build organizational capacity by developing and documenting volunteer strategies, procedures, and contact information to promote increased awareness and support for Chicago HOPES for Kids in the Chicago community and beyond.

Member Duties/Activities:

• Daily check volunteer inquiry email
• Keep current volunteer onboarding and coordinating tasks up to date (examples: volunteer information database,check timesheets, sending weekly/monthly updates, analyzing volunteer feedback, etc.)
• Implement volunteer appreciation efforts
• Foster partnerships with universities and organizations to recruit volunteers and site coordinators
• Attend recruitment events virtually and in person around Chicago
• Assist with facilitating volunteer trainings and monthly information sessions
• Create and lead workshops for volunteers
• Assist with Program at site if a substitute is needed (or if you are just interested in volunteering!)
• Create an end of service term project in accordance with role and complete it by the end of service year

Qualifications:

To qualify you must:

• Have a High School Diploma, (Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree preferred)
• Be a permanent resident or U.S. Citizen and reside in or near Chicago, IL for the duration of your term (hybrid work schedule)
• Ability to adapt to a changing environment and handle multiple priorities
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Previous experience with a nonprofit organization is a plus
• Familiarity with Zoom and Google Suite products (Gmail, Google Drive, etc)
• An eagerness to learn and be part of a team!

Benefits:

Americorps VISTA members receive many benefits for serving! This includes:

• A living stipend totalling approximately $14,000 paid bi-monthly (Cook County, Illinois allowance before taxes)
• A relocation and/or housing allowance
• A $100 monthly travel stipend (Gas and public transportation options available)
• Health Coverage
• SNAP benefits
• Personal and vacation days
• Choice of an education award ($6, 945) OR a cash award (approximately $1,800) that is awarded upon successful completion of service: