Program Manager, Work Release Program

Program Manager, Work Release Program, Hartford, CT

AGENCY DESCRIPTION

One of the oldest organizations of its kind in the country, Community Partners in Action (CPA) was founded nearly 150 years ago to champion criminal justice reform and advocate for preserving the dignity of those in and out of prison. Through our programs that include reentry and housing, youth initiatives, a nationally recognized Prison Arts Program, and holistic alternatives to incarceration, we provide a long-term impact that positively transforms individuals and society at large. Annually serving nearly 7,000 individuals throughout Connecticut, our work is possible due to partnerships with and support from individuals, government, private funders, organizations, and businesses.

CPA launched our BEDI (Belonging, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) Journey in June 2020. Led by a task force that includes board members, our executive leadership team, program managers and staff who act as BEDI Ambassadors from each of our programs, WE ARE COMMITTED to building and maintaining an inclusive, equitable workplace and COMPELLED to have a constructive impact on criminal justice reform in CT that ends racial inequities and ensures the humanity and dignity of those interacting with the system. Read more about our BEDI journey at Our Commitment to Belonging, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion - CPA (cpa-ct.org)

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Our Work Release Program (WRP), currently funded by the CT Department of Correction (CT DOC/Department), provides residents with safe and secure housing, basic needs assistance, employment readiness and placement opportunities as well as the development of life and work skills essential to the promotion of self-reliance, responsibility, and accountability.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS

The WRP Program Manager is responsible for overseeing and implementing all WRP services and staffing to ensure compliance with the funder contractual agreement. A bachelor’s degree is preferred with at least five years of experience operating a residential program and knowledge of reentry services. Equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of education. The Program Manager will set the program tone, coordinate and collaborate with management teams and possess the ability to manage complex decisions, build credible relationships and multi-task.

The Program Manager is also responsible for ensuring a strength-based culture is embraced, that participant program outcomes are consistently met, and that the program is positioned for success internally and externally. Strong emotional intelligence, written and verbal communication skills are critical. Bi-lingual (English/Spanish) skills preferred. Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND BASIC DUTIES

• Commit to the agency’s mission and program goals.
• Sets the program tone, promoting a culture of respect, empathy, mutual support, belonging and works to eliminate any unconscious bias or discrimination in our beliefs, rules and support systems.
• Oversee direction and management of program activities and staff, ensuring fidelity of program model. Ensure the program is in compliance with funder contractual agreement.
• Lead and facilitate regular team meetings with staff.
• Meet monthly with staff on an individual basis to review and discuss performance and professional development.
• Participate in the development of resources and staff to support the program and CPA’s cultural responsiveness and multi-lingual capacity.
• Ensure all program staff are knowledgeable of community resources including housing, employment and treatment.
• Develop solid community networks to support successful resident transition into the community.
• Conduct file reviews in a manner consistent with program, agency and funder guidelines.
• Maintain clear and open communication/collaboration with referral sources/funder network.
• Maintain open lines of communication between WRP and the AIC Program to ensure mutual clients are receiving optimal services.
• Share 24/7 on call responsibilities with program leadership team.
• Prepare and submit all reports in a manner consistent with program, agency and funder guidelines.
• Manage and maintain fiscal resources in collaboration with Program Operations Director and Fiscal Officer.
• Oversee use and maintenance of CPA property (building, vehicles, computers, etc.).
• Participate in monthly Manager Meeting and engage in leadership opportunities.
• Engage in community networking opportunities, e.g., monthly Greater Hartford Reentry Council.
• Represent the agency/program at the request of the Program Operations Director.
• As appropriate, collaborate with Human Resources Director and Program Operations Director, on employment matters including recruiting, hiring, promotions/transfers, performance management and terminations.
• Ensure staff and interns are in compliance with CPA policies and procedures regarding professional behavior, attendance, attire, etc.
• Performs all other duties as required.

An Equal Opportunity Employer Committed to Affirmative Action