Community Engagement Specialist (5306)

MERCY HOUSE•Riverside, CA

1d•$22 - $23

About The Position

The Community Engagement and Residential Services Coordinator plays a key role in connecting residents to available community resources through advocacy and referrals. This position also supports the Development Team in the daily execution of fundraising strategies, community outreach efforts, and volunteer coordination. Additionally, the coordinator will help plan and implement community-building events and enrichment activities for residents.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Human Services, or related field is preferred
Persons with less than a BA/BS degree but with at least 2 years of direct life experience working with long-term homeless, low-income, and diverse populations and who have a working knowledge of mental health and additional issues are welcome to apply
Ability to work effectively with a diverse population
Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize duties
Ability to perform crisis intervention as needed
Ability to clearly communicate information and instructions verbally and in written form
Ability to maintain a positive, professional, and safe environment while on duty
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others
Dependability, responsibility, and the ability to communicate effectively and respectfully
Reliable transportation
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer

Nice To Haves

Fluency in Spanish is of significant value

Responsibilities

Community Outreach Plan, coordinate, and oversee outreach initiatives with congregations, service groups, corporations, and other community organizations
Represent Mercy House at community outreach events and public engagements
Identify and pursue potential community partners to support Mercy House programs
Build and maintain strong relationships with community organizations through regular meetings
Encourage community involvement in the Regional Advisory Council
Develop and nurture partnerships with city staff, community organizers, business leaders, and faith-based groups to support fundraising efforts in Riverside County
Maintain active engagement with neighbors, program partners, and local service organizations
Oversee recruitment, interviews, onboarding, and training of volunteers, ensuring alignment with Mercy House standards
Manage volunteer placement and monitor performance
Implement and maintain the volunteer management platform
Track and report volunteer and donation hours
Recognize and celebrate volunteer contributions
Create content featuring volunteer activities for use in marketing and public relations
Contribute to the development and implementation of new volunteer programs
Coordinate holiday events, Adopt-a-Resident initiatives, and other special volunteer projects
Secure large in-kind donations (e.g., facility maintenance, seasonal gifts, etc.)
Manage donor tracking and acknowledgment processes for in-kind contributions
Collaborate with program teams to identify and prioritize major donation needs
Support residents in establishing and achieving personal and family goals related to safe, stable, and affordable housing
Facilitate access to credit counseling, computer literacy, financial education, and job search resources
Organize life skills workshops on topics such as job readiness, parenting, time/stress management, health, and communication
Develop and coordinate job readiness sessions to enhance employment outcomes
Provide children’s programming such as after-school activities, arts and crafts, and enrichment opportunities
Inform residents of available community services and provide referrals and advocacy as needed
Plan and lead community-building and enrichment activities for residents
Help residents strengthen support networks among peers, family, and community
Design and coordinate holiday and community events
Attend staff meetings and participate in trainings as required
Maintain professional knowledge by attending seminars, reviewing publications, and applying best practices
Complete ad hoc projects as assigned by the supervisor
Submit monthly reports and attendance records in a timely manner
Develop monthly site-specific calendars
Ensure site binders are current and stocked with all necessary forms and waivers