Junction Assistant

HOME SWEET HOME MINISTRIES INC•Bloomington, IL

4d•$17 - $18•Onsite

About The Position

For over a century, Home Sweet Home Ministries has stood as a pillar of the community and a beacon of Christ’s love for the hungry, unhoused, and hopeless here in Central Illinois. It is the mission of every member of our staff and our volunteers to demonstrate Christ’s love through innovative approaches that instill hope, restore lives, and build community. We offer supportive services to those in need – providing shelter, food, case management, as well as programs including Rapid Rehousing and our Bread for Life Co-Op. Now you, too, can help build upon our traditions and contribute your passion for caring for others and your desire to be a guiding light for Christ’s love to those caught in the storm by joining our dedicated team. Home Sweet Home Ministries offers employment opportunities for those with a desire to be part of a community committed to helping others. The Junction Assistant supports The Junction by creating a welcoming, safe, and well-operated facility environment for clients, community members, and volunteers. This role blends hospitality services, facility operations, resource connection, and community engagement to ensure an inclusive, trauma-informed experience for all who access The Junction.

Requirements

Associate’s degree coursework in Human Services or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
Experience in shelter services, social services, community programming, hospitality, or customer-facing support roles.
Ability to multitask effectively and function in a fast-paced, high-stress environment.
Ability to establish and maintain appropriate professional boundaries with clients and program participants.
Ability to assess client needs and connect individuals with appropriate agency or community resources.
Ability to appropriately address and redirect client behavior when needed in a professional and trauma-informed manner.
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and familiarity with operational reporting or data entry systems.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to work independently and manage priorities effectively.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Mission-oriented with values in harmony with those of Home Sweet Home Ministries, Inc.

Nice To Haves

Training or certification in relevant areas such as CPR/First Aid, trauma-informed care, or de-escalation techniques preferred.

Responsibilities

Foster relationships with families and individuals participating in The Junction programs through inclusive, welcoming, and supportive community-building activities.
Support and maintain positive relationships with volunteers at The Junction.
Reinforce trauma-informed care principles by modeling and encouraging supportive engagement practices with volunteers and program participants.
Engage with community members and program participants to assess needs and connect them with appropriate internal and external resources and supports.
Oversee daily operations of the Welcome Desk, Coffee Bar, and community rooms to ensure a professional, warm, and courteous environment for all clients, volunteers, visitors, and donors.
Answer incoming telephone calls in a professional and welcoming manner, accurately documenting and routing messages to appropriate staff.
Serve as a liaison with social service agencies to support the Community Outreach Manager in coordinating events, partnerships, and program activities.
Follow and help enforce organizational policies and procedures to ensure safe and effective operations of The Junction and its program spaces.
Learn and maintain working knowledge of Junction equipment, systems, and physical spaces.
Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information in accordance with organizational policies.
Verify client eligibility prior to distributing resources or services.
Conduct routine checks of the building and grounds to support safety and security.
Secure and lock The Junction facility, rooms, and spaces at the end of shifts or as assigned.
Support the Junction Manager in engaging with community groups and promoting The Junction.
Assist with coordination and communication for community and agency events to ensure effective planning, promotion, and execution among staff, volunteers, and participants.