JOB DESCRIPTION: Hope House Neighborhood Coordinator About the Organization: Voices for Earth Justice (VEJ) is a non-profit organization, founded in 2002, and serving in southeast Michigan. Our mission statement is: an interfaith network of people committed to prayer, education and action that deepen our sense of wonder, responsibility and gratitude for all creation. VEJ expanded its mission in 2011 with the purchase and rehabilitation of Hope House, our center in the Brightmoor area of northwest Detroit. About the position: VEJ is looking for someone who is excited about the revitalization of Detroit, and desires to work with grass roots people and organizations to contribute to the revitalization in the Brightmoor neighborhood. The ideal candidate will have: excellent communication skills, a passion for fostering relationships and working with other people to get things done; and a commitment to social justice. With Hope House as a base, the Neighborhood Coordinator will work in the north Brightmoor neighborhood with VEJ’s partners to improve the quality of life for all, especially by addressing environmental justice issues and developing community gardens. This is a new position. This position is part-time, with an option to become fulltime after six months. Salary range: $20-24K for 20 hours per week; depending on education and experience. The Hope House Neighborhood Coordinator reports to VEJ’s executive director, Patricia (Patty) Gillis, MA, MSW. Responsibilities: 1. Oversee year round maintenance and security of Hope House buildings, gardens, and grounds. 2. Recruit, train, coordinate, supervise, and appreciate individuals and groups of volunteers. 3. Represent Voices for Earth Justice among Brightmoor area leaders, churches, and community organizations, and with city wide gardening/farming and environmental groups. 4. Develop collaborative partnerships with Brightmoor area leaders, churches, and community organizations, particularly in regard to community garden development and environmental justice issues. 5. Assist executive director and board of directors with program evaluation. 6. Assist executive director and board of directors with resource development (in-kind donations, appeals, and grant writing).
Page 2 Required: 1. Community development skills: work within the community to identify issues and goals, as the community sees them, and to facilitate the development of collective resolutions or strategies. 2. Commitment to racial and class equity, and appreciation for diverse cultures. 3. Strong organizational and written/verbal communication skills. 4. Demonstrated experience with effective project management. 5. Knowledge of, and appreciation for the ways local faith communities may nurture positive change in individuals and society, including interfaith activities. 6. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 7. Experience with home maintenance and repairs/gardening. 8. Proficient in use of MS Office software (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint). Other preferred qualifications: 1. Master’s degree preferred, will consider all levels of education for candidates with experience. 2. Interest and familiarity with issues, organizations, and community resources relating to the City of Detroit, including land use issues, local food production, and environmental justice challenges and opportunities. 3. Experience in administering a successful volunteer program. 4. Gardening or farming expertise. 5. Experience in non-profit or human service settings. 6. Understanding and/or experience of the intersection between religion/faith and the environment. 7. Interfaith experience or expertise. 8. Applicant lives in, or is willing to take up residence in Brightmoor. This position will be evaluated three months after hire and annually, thereafter. For more information about this position, contact Patty Gillis at 248-351-9001 or at
[email protected] . To apply: Voices for Earth Justice is an equal opportunity employer and encourages diversity. Please send cover letter and resume as attachments to
[email protected] by June 16, 2015.