Program Coordinator- Bilingual in Lakewood, Colorado at The Action Center

This entry-level position involves dynamic, active physical work associated with delivering program services and interacting with a diverse population of community members, often in distress. The role requires engagement in assessment, outreach, de-escalation, and confident decision-making as needed. Some weekend work is required to support outreach activities and community events.

The regular schedule for this full-time position will be Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Flexibility in days and hours is required based on program, outreach, and event needs.

Additionally, this position will provide support to first-floor lobby volunteers.

We are committed to diversity and building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills

• Assess and assist Spanish- and English-speaking individuals and families seeking assistance with immediate needs, and work with them to determine options for increased stabilization through connections to appropriate internal services and external referrals, and navigation to other services.
• Provide services (such as, but not limited to, benefit sign-ups, resource consultations, and grocery shopping support) to community members in English and/or Spanish, and, in some cases, interpret for other staff members and volunteers.
• Conduct intentional outreach activities to community members in program spaces such as the food/clothing market and waiting areas.
• Work in conjunction with other program services staff to ensure accurate data collection for all community members and services delivered.
• Monitor building flow across all service areas, respond to immediate crises, and work directly with community members as warranted. Engage in assessment, de-escalation, and decision-making as needed.
• Become proficient in and support volunteers in the use of computer-based management systems and databases as applicable.
• Maintain regular and consistent communication with program services, volunteer management staff, and volunteers
• Support the training of first-floor volunteers as needed in their work with and in the delivery of programs. This may include assistance with self-select grocery, the clothing bank, and general support for building operations related to serving community members.
• Document Incident Reports; identify and address safety issues, responding in accordance with established procedures.
• Maintain good working relationships with external community service providers.
• Communicate effectively about program activities, progress, and difficulties. This may include:
  • Providing support to other program services staff and volunteers during challenging and/or escalated situations.
• Consistently demonstrate a positive and supportive approach to the community members and the community we serve
• Attend and participate in agency events and programs as needed
• Other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• High School/GED required, Bachelor’s degree preferred with coursework in human services, social work, psychology, counseling, sociology, or related field experience.
• Bilingual in Spanish and English required
• At least one year of experience working with individuals representing diverse populations, including those experiencing homelessness, living in poverty, experiencing mental health crises, and/or other vulnerable populations.
• Experience working in partnership with volunteers is a plus.
• High level of situational awareness required; demonstrated ability to assess potential escalating situations and capacity to take appropriate and proactive measures to mitigate potentially disruptive situations
• Ability to deal calmly, patiently, and effectively in potentially tense situations.
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment and shifting gears to accommodate change.
• A high degree of emotional intelligence, compassion, flexibility, and a non-judgmental view of people experiencing a crisis
• Understanding of Trauma-Informed Care
• Mental Health First Aid certification (training will be provided if needed)
• CPR/First Aid certification is required (training will be provided if needed). Must be willing and able to perform CPR and First Aid as needed.
• Competency in setting personal and professional boundaries
• Excellent organizational, crisis management, communication, and decision-making skills
• Ability to exercise initiative, relate well with others, and build collaborations; ability to take direction while participating in a team environment
• Must work independently and demonstrate flexibility in managing time
• Excellent computer skills, including Word, Excel, Google, and databases

PERSONAL CONTACTS AND PURPOSE

Works closely with community members, program staff, and volunteers to ensure effective delivery of program services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The position involves dynamic, active physical work associated with delivering program services and will have responsibilities both inside and outside, in all weather.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment will vary from day to day, ranging from an office setting to a fast-paced community center.

The Action Center's policy is not to discriminate against any applicant or employee based on actual or perceived race, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy), marital status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, religion, creed, color, sexual orientation, gender identity or including transgender status), veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law. The Agency also prohibits harassment of applicants and employees based on any of these protected categories