Vincentian Volunteers of Cincinnati-- Getting Ahead Coordinator

Learn from and walk alongside our neighbors in need for 16 weeks, looking at poverty through the lens of economic class to better understand how our society and the economy work, and empowering them to build economic stability for themselves while we build a better future for our community. As a co-facilitator of these small groups, you will collaborate to prepare weekly lesson plans and co-facilitate the group, creating a safe, open, and caring place for individuals to assess economic problems and self-identify goals; you will also support the behind-the-scenes needs of the program. Be part of the process of investigating the impact of poverty and what it takes to move from a just-getting-by world to a getting-ahead world, helping our neighbors in need address systemic issues to create their own change.This position is part of the Vincentian Volunteers of Cincinnati (VVC) program, a faith-based, year-long, residential service program, providing young professionals in their twenties an opportunity to grow in faith, friendship and service by giving deeply of themselves to their neighbors in need. VVC members serve full-time in a unique work placement with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. They live together in a house provided by the program, in the West End neighborhood of Cincinnati, blocks from SVDP’s Outreach Center. The program is an 11-month commitment, running late August through late July and provides members with excellent professional experience in a supportive context. One hundred percent of VVC members finish the program with a meaningful next-step in their career.A high school diploma or its equivalent is required; degree in social work or related field preferred. Experience working directly with and an understanding of the issues often facing people in need, and a demonstrated ability to relate to people of different cultural and economic backgrounds are important. Strong organizational skills will help carry out the responsibilities of this position. The ability to relate effectively and compassionately to people in the process of meeting their basic needs is essential. Basic computer knowledge, particularly in Microsoft Office programs, is necessary.Program Responsibilities:1. Through the SVDP National office, participate in necessary Getting Ahead training, including reading Bridges Out of Poverty and Getting Ahead in a Just Gettin’ by World; and participating in a two-part Webinar.2. Collaborate with local resources to support the Mentor component for the program.3. Recruit participants from area Conferences, the Winton Hills and West End Outreach Centers, and the SVDP Re-Entry program.4. Co-facilitate two 16-course Getting Ahead programs per year, including collaborating with a group of Conferences for participants in their neighborhoods.5. Work with clients in the Getting Ahead program to create a speakers’ bureau of individuals willing to share their stories on Ozanam Center retreats, for the Development department, Board events, etc.6. Present Getting Ahead content at various Ozanam Center trainings and workshops, such as Ozanam Orientation and Understanding Poverty.