It takes a Village (i.e. lots of committed and engaged volunteers)…to create community change.  Ever wonder what it takes to engage volunteers?  Seattle Works knows that effective volunteer engagement doesn’t happen without great Volunteer Managers and Leaders.  So they have teamed up with Washington State’s Association of Volunteer Centers to help support VAN (Volunteer Administrator’s Network) – a professional association that provides support, resources, training and mentoring opportunities for Volunteer Managers and Leaders.  That support for VAN comes in the form of an AmeriCorps VISTA position which will work with the VAN Board and membership to develop infrastructure and build capacity.  This is a great opportunity to learn about and engage with volunteer management professionals as well as put organizational skills to work.

About VAN:

VAN is a vibrant professional network that advocates for the profession and empowers Volunteer managers.

VAN advocates for recognition of Volunteer Managers

• as leaders in our organizations
• as leaders in the community
• for the assets and resources they bring
• as community mobilizers
• as professionals

VAN empowers volunteer managers by providing connections to

• resources
• skill-building opportunities
• peer networking
• mentorship

AmeriCorps VISTA Position Description

Title: AmeriCorps*VISTA Professional Development Coordinator

Status: Stipend Volunteer Position

Reports to: Director of Programs

Commitment: 12 months, 40 hrs per week beginning April 2010

Training: Attendance at four AmeriCorps*VISTA training sessions is required

Stipend:  $10,380 Living allowance; 4,725 Education Award

Application Process: Please send your resume and a cover letter that explains your interest and fit for the position to jan@seattleworks.orgs; NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.

Application Due Date: February 19, 2010

This position is offered through the AmeriCorps*VISTA program, which includes an AmeriCorps*VISTA annual living stipend and education award, plus health and vacation benefits. Compensation is outlined on the AmeriCorps website (www.americorps.gov).

SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES:

• Create and implement internal administrative processes to support a robust volunteer led organization focused on expanding the capacity of the volunteer sector including:
• Bookkeeping processes
• Website maintenance
• Membership renewals
• Research resources that allow for effective professional networking and best practice sharing
• Work in partnership with and support VAN board as they identify key needs and strategic direction for Volunteer Manager’s professional association
• Facilitate the Conference Committee; plan and execute a successful annual conference
• Research and write grants
• Generally work to expand VAN’s offerings and network of support!

GENERAL EXPECTATIONS:

• Nonprofit or Volunteer Management experience
• Office experience
• Strong organization and communication skills
• Facilitation or leadership experience
• Ability to perform in a comfortable atmosphere that requires individual initiative as well as group decision making
  Grant writing experience preferred

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident
• At least 18 years of age
• Ability to commit to working 12 months beginning in April 2010
• Technology savvy
• High School Diploma (college degree preferred)

STIPEND & BENEFITS:

• A living allowance of $10,380 distributed in equal installments twice monthly.
• Basic health insurance (VISTA member only, no dependents)
• Loan forbearance for federal student loans
• A $4,725 educational award upon completion of your service term (or $1,200 cash stipend)
• Childcare assistance (available for those who qualify)
• The opportunity to make a difference is a small, promising organization
• Exposure to hundreds of nonprofits in Seattle
• Access to Seattle Works programs and events!