VISTA Volunteer Coordinator Americorps (1064)

OVERVIEW

This position is offered through the AmeriCorps VISTA program.  As an AmeriCorps VISTA Volunteer Coordinator in service at BakerRipley, you will join an incredibly talented and hardworking member of the Economic Initiatives (EI) Division dedicated to social impact in the Houston regional and engaging and connecting adult students to their educational goals and personal aspirations.  Designed specifically to fight poverty and founded as Volunteers in Service to America in 1965 and incorporated into the AmeriCorps network of programs in 1993, VISTA has been on the front lines in the fight against poverty in America for 40 years. VISTA members make a year-long, full-time commitment to serve on a specific project at a nonprofit organization or public agency and perform indirect service to support the organizations to deliver valuable direct services to people living in poverty. VISTAs are highly skilled and participate in capacity-building activities that enhance the mission, strategy, skills, and culture, as well as systems, infrastructure, and human resources of an organizations, like BakerRipley, in meeting unmet community needs. AmeriCorps VISTA members are passionate and committed to their mission to bring individuals and communities out of poverty. Compensation includes a living allowance and an education award. Other benefits include health benefits and, if applicable, compensation for childcare and relocation assistance.

To learn more about the benefits of the AmeriCorps VISTA program, please visit: www.nationalservice.gov/programs/americorps/americorps-term determined by AmeriCorps and lead critical capacity and sustainability activities of a piloted comprehensive volunteer program including volunteer recruitment and management.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTION

• Assess and strengthen the volunteer program within the first 90 days, evaluating existing structures, volunteer roles, and departmental needs, and implementing targeted improvements.
• With the support of the program coordinator, manager and director, lead all phases of the AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer program, operating independently while collaborating with the Manager of Adult Education and Program Director for strategic alignment.
• Design and execute volunteer recruitment strategies, including outreach, screening, interviewing, and selection based on current program needs.
• Oversee volunteer enrollment, onboarding, and compliance, ensuring timely completion of documentation, and orientations.
• Develop and implement volunteer training, orientation, and matching systems, including role-specific preparation.
• Supervise and support volunteers throughout their service, ensuring engagement, performance, and a meaningful volunteer experience.
• Track and report volunteer hours, activities, and outcomes, maintaining accurate records for internal use and external compliance.
• Create, document, and improve standard operating procedures, tools, and systems to increase program capacity, efficiency, and sustainability.
• Develop volunteer materials, including position descriptions, presentations, and informational resources.
• Lead volunteer recognition and retention efforts, implementing strategies to acknowledge contributions and service milestones.
• Maintain full compliance with AmeriCorps VISTA requirements, including timely reporting, attendance at required meetings and trainings, and adherence to all program rules.

MINIMUM EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree in related fields    
• Background in Education or Communication/Marketing, preferred

YEARS OF EXPERIENCE: 

• 1 year of related experience, preferred

SKILLS:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Ability to work with a diverse group of people. 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Detail oriented and highly organized.  
• Current valid driver’s license and reliable transportation      

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to sit, stand, or kneel in a stationary position for short and prolonged times.

MENTAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to multi-task, organize to the company expectation, manage normal office stress.