Hope for the Journey Home Operations Coordinator Organization Summary Hope for the Journey Home (HJH) is a shelter for families experiencing homelessness and operates as part of the Justice and Outreach ministry of Guardian Angels Catholic Community in Oakdale, MN. Volunteers from approximately 30 different faith communities help staff the shelter and serve guests. A full-time coordinator and five part-time staff provide continuity and additional flexibility in scheduling. Case management and support is done through the Community Resource Center (CRC) at St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church in Mahtomedi, MN, where guests are transported each weekday morning, returning to HJH at 3:00 each weekday. HJH is open to guests from 3:00 pm – 9:00 am during the week and 24 hours a day on weekends. Primary Responsibilities Provide leadership in creating a welcoming and safe environment for families experiencing homelessness and develop and implement policies and procedures that sustain that environment for both guests and volunteers.
Provide primary supervision, training and support for HJH Assistant Coordinator, Kitchen Manager and other part-time staff.
Work closely with St. Andrew’s CRC caseworkers in supporting our guests as they work toward greater self-sufficiency.
Sustain and expand partnerships with congregations, agencies and community groups.
Assist partner congregations in their volunteer recruitment efforts as needed.
Work with Assistant Coordinator to train and orient volunteers. Develop and implement opportunities for volunteers and other community partners to share in the ministry of HJH.
Maintain a database of volunteers and staff schedules to ensure HJH is staffed appropriately.
Ensure compliance with background checks and Virtus or Safe Church training.
Represent HJH at faith communities, community events and other gatherings to promote the work of HJH, lift up both the needs and assets of families experiencing homelessness and generate volunteer and financial support for the work of HJH.
Carry out a grant writing and fundraising plan, working in partnership with the HJH Finance Committee. Ensure compliance and data reporting for public and private funding. Develop and track outcomes and measurements.
Monitor inventory, supplies, expenses and revenue to ensure sufficient resources for operation.
Assume responsibilities for other duties as assigned.
Preferred Experience and Skills Bachelor’s degree in Social Work or related area or equivalent work experience.
Three years’ experience in supportive community services.
Experience in non-profit community programs serving families in poverty and crisis.
Knowledge of homelessness and its effects on families, children and the broader community.
Experience with economically and racially diverse populations.
Excellent public presentation and written communication skills.
Proficiency in Excel, Word and volunteer database management.
Ability to build and maintain healthy relationships with guests and volunteers.
Problem-solver with ability to balance attention to detail with a broader sense of vision.
Sense of humor, compassion and hospitality.
Ability to be creative and flexible in responding to changing priorities and emerging needs.
To Apply Please send a resume and cover letter to Suzanne Bernet at
[email protected].
