Food Shelf Program Assistant

About Valley Outreach: Everybody needs help sometimes. Valley Outreach offers people a wide range of support – whether they need food, clothing, or help navigating resources during challenging times. Our programs include a food shelf, clothing program, and client support services. Volunteers, donors, and partners are critical to the success of the mission of Valley Outreach. When we work together, we can help neighbors find a place of stability.

Valley Outreach offers a competitive benefits package, including a low-deductible medical and dental plan (with 90% of the premium paid by the organization), and a low-cost vision insurance plan. Valley Outreach also provides short-term disability coverage, a Simple IRA, a flexible spending account, an employee assistance program and PTO in addition paid holidays.

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Position Summary: Under the direction of the Food Program Manager, the Food Shelf Program Assistant supports the coordination and daily operation of the organization's food shelf program. This role requires a strong commitment to serving individuals and families experiencing food insecurity while ensuring efficient and effective program delivery.

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Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Food Shelf Operation

• Support food shelf operations, including inventory management, food sorting, and equitable food distribution.
• Work collaboratively with the Warehouse Coordinator to maintain a clean, safe, and organized environment that is respectful and welcoming for our clients and volunteers.
• In collaboration with the Warehouse Coordinator, ensure all food is inspected for quality prior to distribution.
• Adhere to all relevant food safety regulations and best practices.
• Support the facilitation of monthly on-site food distribution to the Cimarron neighborhood.
• In collaboration with the Food Program Manager, help organize and facilitate in-home deliveries.
• Assist with food rescue support when needed which may include driving a box truck and picking up food at local stores.
• In collaboration with the Food Program Team, support program process development and implementation.

Volunteer Support

• Support and work alongside volunteers providing guidance and direction for various food shelf activities such as stocking food, assisting clients, and relevant training.
• Create and maintain an engaging and positive environment where volunteers feel supported.
• In collaboration with the Volunteer Manager, respond to any volunteer concerns and help resolve issues that may arise.

Client Support and Engagement

• Provide friendly and respectful service to all clients.
• Assist clients in selecting appropriate food items and navigating the food shelf.
• Maintain client confidentiality and privacy.
• Respond to any client-related concerns and help resolve issues that may arise.

Staff Engagement and Communications

• Responsible for maintaining consistent communication with your team and colleagues through email, team meetings, and larger staff meetings.
• Participate in ongoing staff training opportunities and applicable professional development.

Other duties as assigned

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Expectations and Work Experience:

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, shifting gears quickly, easily, and thoughtfully.
• Commitment to racial equity and social justice and willingness to be actively engaged in ongoing equity work.
• Fluency in Spanish or Karen language preferred.
• Ability to be flexible and to collaborate effectively, building strong, productive relationships as part of a team.
• Strong understanding of working with individuals of different ages, races, and socio-economic backgrounds.
• High level of personal and professional integrity, including the ability to protect and maintain confidentiality.
• General computer and database proficiencies; working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs is preferred.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule that will include some evening hours.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance.
• Physical ability to load and unload boxes and bags on a daily basis, use a pallet jack and other warehouse equipment, lift up to 50 pounds regularly and remain standing for long periods of time.
• Valid driver’s license and good driving record.

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To apply for this position: Forward your resume and cover letter to jobs@valleyoutreachmn.org and place Food Shelf Program Assistant in the subject line.

This process will include:

• A review of information from all interested parties. Be sure to provide your phone number and email so that we may contact you.
• A phone screening conversation will be set up with those candidates who most closely meet the requirements of the position. Several candidates will be invited to an in-person conversation regarding the position.
• A second, in-person conversation, if needed.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $21.72 - $23.50 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Shift:

• 8 hour shift

Work Location: In person

Salary : $22 - $24