Instructor/Advocate (FT) at Rockford Rescue Mission – Rockford, Illinois

PROGRAM RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct thorough intakes to assess the current needs of new shelter guests.
• Create and present concepts across a variety of topics themed on personal and career development.
• Regularly collaborate with department staff and attend trainings to provide services using a trauma-informed point of view.
• Follow appropriate recordkeeping procedures to document needs and barriers.
• Within the first 14 days, become certified to serve as a proctor in the Pearson VUE testing center.
• Provide 1:1 assistance to residents, guests, and community members.
• Be vigilant in reporting and documenting any inappropriate behaviors.
• Serve in a manner which upholds the Mission’s standards of professionalism and Christ-centered ministry.
• Monitor each guest’s progress and goals. Provide direction to encourage guests to complete tasks in a timely manner.
• Maintain accurate documentation on case management services, incident reports, and outcomes.
• Stay in compliance in both internal and external policies and procedures.
• Serve as substitute instructor, proctor, or advocate for other classes when needed.
• Collaborate with staff to adapt and improve programs and instructional content.
• Ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming environment.
• Perform additional related duties as assigned.

HOMELESS SERVICES

• Maintain a working knowledge of community services to provide appropriate referrals to other agencies as needed.
• Support partnerships with community organizations and businesses to introduce guests to career pathways, educational opportunities, and other support services.
• Meet with guests to outline program guidelines and expectations.
• Collaborate with other staff to identify guests who may benefit from transitioning into the Life Recovery program.
• Regularly review guests’ personal and program goals to support their progress and long-term success.
• Design, implement, and evaluate classroom content related to career development, vocational training, and educational opportunities.
• Serve as a lifelong learner.

LIFE RECOVERY SERVICES

• Oversee Life Recovery residents scheduled time in the Connection Center.
• Offer ideas and curriculum to increase participation and motivation of residents.
• Engage with residents to develop relationships which foster spiritual growth and learning.
• Collaborate with Life Recovery staff to implement new strategies and learning opportunities.
• Monitor resident progress and assist in long-term career planning to promote success beyond program completion.
• Assist residents in career-readiness and with job searching after completing the Life Recovery program.

COMMUNITY SERVICES

• Maintain compliance as a proctor in the Pearson VUE Testing Center according to policies and procedures.
• Answer phones, make calls, correspond by email, and provide professional interactions
• Assist walk-ins with ordering identification documents, cell phones, and other essential items.
• Represent the Mission in a positive, professional manner at community functions, off-site events, and public engagements.
• Ensure all public-facing areas and service spaces are consistently clean, organized, and welcoming.

SPIRITUAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Take every opportunity to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with others.
• Provide spiritual encouragement to staff, volunteers, guests, and residents.
• Invest in the spiritual development of staff, guests, residents, and donors. Pray for and with staff, volunteers, guests, residents, and donors.
• Ensure actions and policies reflect the Christian values and purpose of the Mission.
• Handle relational conflicts according to the Staff Covenant of Romans 12:18 and Matthew 18:15-19.
• Memorize monthly Scriptures, Mission Statement, and Mission Core Values.
• Participate in corporate prayer and Scripture reading, staff chapel services, and all spiritual gatherings.
• Support and attend annual mandatory Evangelism In-Service training to grow in knowledge of leading others to faith in Christ.
• Participate in annual spiritual growth training through organization-selected curriculum.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of an associate’s degree is required; relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• A solid understanding of and experience in case management, social work, or education is strongly preferred.
• Must be organized, possess strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills as well as the ability to be flexible is necessary for success in the role.
• Computer proficiency required.
• Reliable transportation required; meetings are occasionally off-site.
• Must have strong personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
• Must be active in a local Christian church.
• Must demonstrate compassion toward the poor, needy, and homeless.
• Must demonstrate character traits of integrity, personality responsibility, and grace toward others.
• Must be teachable and function as a team player.