Stitch-Ed Together Sewing Teacher/ Program Assistant/ Volunteers

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Job Summary: Stitch-Ed Together is ECDC DC Metro’s premier sewing group. This position assists in all aspects of training program activities -sewing skills training, evaluation of students, goal setting for students and improving student outcomes within the classroom. Tasks will range from instructing refugees about skills relating to sewing, implementing English language in the classroom, maintenance of curriculum and materials, student accountability, attendance recording, data reporting, and development of student’s professional, creative, and leadership skills. Participants in this program often have very limited English skills, thus creativity and flexibility are necessary.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Teach Beginner lessons to up to 5 students per class
2. Implement teaching techniques based on the three-step learning process (observation and action, utilizing samples, and focusing on using English vocabulary).
3. Assist with special orders as needed.
4. Provide a safe and comfortable space for participants of the program, paying attention to any issues they may be having and reporting these to Program Coordinator.
5. Track student attendance in binders, and report any attendance concerns to Program Coordinator.
6. Evaluate and activate the personal and leadership development of program participants by providing student’s opportunities to have a preference, supporting personal innovation, building social connection, and improving personal development.
7. Assist, improve and maintain the studio and classroom.
8. Update, organize, and maintain the sewing curriculum and materials.
9. Teach participants using the curriculum provided how to safely and independently operate the classroom machinery, supplies, and tools.
10. Attend craft fairs and assist in the outreach of the program when needed.
11. Improve and critically assess the creative development of the project via curriculum addendums and effective training practices.
12. Contribute to quality control of products, cleaning/maintenance of the equipment and patterns.
13. Provide guidance, respect, and empowerment for individuals in the classroom.
14. Contribute to product development through sample products, lesson planning and pattern creation.
15. Build accountability with students through attendance and appointment communication
16. On a weekly basis, collaborate with the other sewing teacher for classroom goal setting.
17. Enhance the multi-cultural atmosphere for students and patiently work with people from other cultures and languages.
18. Responsibly prepare students for graduation and certification.

Education, Experience, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Commitment to mission for Stitch-Ed Together:

To improve the lives of refugees and immigrant women in the D.C. Metropolitan area through skills development, income generation, and integration into the local community. Pursuit of excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational skills

• Knowledge and experience with employment development a plus
• Excellent Sewing skills and experience with production and assembly
• Use of personal computer and vehicle a plus.
• Ability to effectively communicate with supervisor
• Interest in working in a multicultural environment, refugee language capability a plus
• Knowledgeable about and sensitive to the experiences of refugees and immigrants
• Clean background check and DMV record

Learning Outcomes:

• Understanding of the timeliness and processes for newcomer refugees
• Increased intercultural communication competency
• Exposure to basic non-profit operations and environment
• Knowledge of marginalized populations - challenges and opportunities
• Experience as a sewing teacher and supervisor
• Further Development of Sewing Curriculum and Skill sets

Time Requirements:

As this is the start of a new project, we will begin with 12 -week Beginner Sewing Class.

This position requires 6-10 hours a week. Class times are negotiable.

Physical Demands

• Moderate physical activity, which includes standing, sitting, lifting and/or walking
• Ability to see and hear within normal parameters
• May require local travel to meetings
• Ability to maintain emotional control under stress

Contact with Others

Position involves regular contact with local employers, other volunteers, refugee community members, and ACC staff.

Performance Criteria

Related to job responsibilities, core competencies, and performance goals set annually in consultation with supervisor.

Confidentiality

All employees are required to work in a confidential manner in all aspects of their work.