Program Facilitator

The New Vecinos Program is a vital part of our Community Care programming. NLC empowers residents to own their own journey towards independence while taking advantage of the varied and impactful services provided by Illinois Department of Human Services partners including New Life Centers. New Life Centers will provide direct services related to holistic wellness and community connections that provide a safety net of support for our neighbors in the Chicagoland area. Programming and connections will aim at the development of life skills necessary for resiliency and forward movement, will help build community to mitigate isolation and anxiety, will promote wellness and mental health, and will help serve as a deterrent to violence and domestic abuse. 

Position Summary

The Program Facilitator position is full-time, 40 hours per week, temporary (exempt, benefits available) and will take place at our various shelter locations. The Facilitator is responsible for the planning and implementation of high-quality programming for adult and children shelter residents. May require some local travel (reimbursable). This position is in-person.

Job Responsibilities

• Plans and implements activities and information sessions for residents on topics such as workforce development, financial literacy, cultural awareness, city transportation and other relevant topics.
• Builds healthy, positive, supportive relationships with residents modeling positive behaviors.
• Plans and implements group lessons and activities with the goal of preparing residents for life outside of the shelter.
• Provides relevant sessions and maintains awareness of technology barriers, language barriers, cultural differences and incorporates strategies to meet participants' needs.
• Provides additional one on one support, encouragement, and help with problem solving and conflict resolution to residents who demonstrate need.
• Documents notes of sessions and does research to create materials and training modules for a diverse shelter audience.
• Assists other facilitators in addressing challenging situations with residents.
• Utilizes motivational interviewing and/or other trauma-informed strategies to address resident needs.
• Assures program begins and ends on time, including set-up, clean-up, and debriefing sessions.
• Assures upkeep and safety of space, supplies, and equipment.
• In collaboration with the team, is responsible for the planning and logistics of activities and events.
• Assures the safety of all residents during programming sessions.
• Communicates program supply needs Program Manager.
• Communicates and collaborates with NLC Volunteer Coordinator and volunteers to provide any necessary guidance or direction during daily sessions and activities.  
• Produces documents, receipts, data reporting, and correspondence regarding activities and progress as necessary for consistent evaluation of program and timely report submittal.
• Regularly assists residents to address challenges and celebrate milestones.
• Participates in regular check-ins, and break-out planning meetings with Supervisor.
• Assists data team and development team with data collection and required reporting.
• May participate in social media, video, writings, and promotions for programming.
• Assists residents in completing program surveys.
• Assures residents submit all necessary paperwork.
• Maintains accuracy of budget and spending plan and assures spending within target if applicable.
• Participates in required evaluations and audits if requested.
• Demonstrates New Life Centers’ values.
• Attends required meetings and trainings.
• Other duties as assigned by the Supervisor.

 Skills & Qualifications

• Must become a Certified Mandated Reporter. Training provided.
• Must pass a background check, must not have any pending cases.
• Must pass a Child Abuse and Neglect Tracking System background check.
• Must pass a National Sex Offender Registry background check.
• Must have a working phone and phone number.
• One year experience working in the human services field.
• Cross-cultural competency.
• Ability to communicate effectively both written and verbally.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Must be willing to be trained, and proficiently utilize database(s) and information tracking systems relevant to duties.
• Must keep confidentiality of resident information.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Valid Illinois driver’s license, insurance, good driving record, access to a vehicle. Subject to driving background check.
• General knowledge of sports.
• Bilingual English/Spanish preferred.

How to Apply

Please submit the following materials

• Cover letter indicating your experience and interest in the position.
• Resume
• List of three references with contact information (minimum 2 professional references, email and phone number included)
• Please mention the name of any New Life Centers staff who referred the position to you if applicable.

New Life Centers provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. New Life Centers complies with applicable federal, state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.