Host Site Name: Portland Refugee Support Group

Department: Volunteer Programs

Location: Portland, OR

Position Title: Volunteer Coordinator

Summary of Position and Project Goal:

PRSG’s VISTA member will develop a framework to enhance the capacity of the organization’s volunteer programs to reflect a more geographically and demographically diverse volunteer base, track and monitor the effectiveness of volunteer engagements, and design opportunities for increased community engagement. The VISTA project will provide PRSG with a strong foundation to increase the visibility of programs and services for refugees while communicating successes and areas for growth and improvement to staff.

Essential Responsibilities/Activities:

• Conduct outreach and community engagement to build a more diverse volunteer network
• Design systems to track, monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of volunteer activities
• Build relationships with PRSG staff to improve the integration of volunteers into daily work
• Engage in continuous improvement cycles aimed at increasing the visibility of PRSG’s work in the community

Marginal Responsibilities:

• Assist in the implementation of Mobility Mentoring programs through volunteer training
• Co-coordinate volunteer appreciation and engagement events with staff
• Represent PRSG at community events

AmeriCorps VISTA Member Responsibilities:

• Attend all Campus Compact of Oregon AmeriCorps VISTA required training and events.
• Complete and submit all Campus Compact of Oregon AmeriCorps VISTA required progress reports, timesheets, and other paperwork.

Required Qualifications:

• 18 years and older
• Must have at least an Associates Degree or equivalent credits
• Demonstrate a commitment to or willingness to explore issues of racial justice and equity
• A U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident
• Able to serve full-time for 365 days
• Ability to pass a criminal history background check

Preferred Qualifications:

• Lived experience as an immigrant/refugee or previous experience supporting immigrant/refugee communities
• Fluency in a language other than English
• Availability on weekends & evenings
• Ability to self-direct personal goals

AmeriCorps VISTA Member Benefits:

• A living allowance of $791.70 bi-weekly (for VISTAs serving in Clackamas, Columbia, Multnomah, Washington, and Yamhill counties)
• A living allowance of $675.08 bi-weekly (for VISTAs serving in any other county of Oregon)
• An education award of $6,495 or cash stipend of $1,800 upon successful completion of service
• Relocation allowance of $750 and mileage - based reimbursement if moving more than 50 miles to serve
• Health benefits
• Loan forbearance and interest accrual payment on qualified student loans
• Childcare (if eligible)
• Training and professional development opportunities
• Access to an extensive network of AmeriCorps Alums
• Federal jobs non-competitive eligibility for one year after service

Site Specific Benefits:

• Employer-provided cell phone and laptop
• Access to organizational Lyft account for transportation
• Mileage reimbursement at federal rate if driving personal automobile
• Food assistance ($100 gift card/month to store of member’s choice)