Job Description

Church World Service (CWS) is a not-for-profit, faith-based organization transforming communities around the globe through just and sustainable solutions to hunger, poverty, displacement and disaster. CWS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, genetic information, age, disability, or veteran status in employment or in the provision of services.

The CWS local Offices work with refugees and immigrants to provide services to communities in need. We are a highly motivated, mission-driven team eager to create a welcoming place for all neighbors. CWS is a fun and supportive organization, with competitive salary and benefits.

About CWS

Imagine waking up every morning with the chance to change someone's life. Imagine knowing your efforts will benefit both your career and our neighbors around the world. At CWS, our team knows they are making a difference every day. Whether you're in our U.S.-based offices supporting refugees, asylees or unaccompanied children ... implementing hygiene initiatives in Cambodia or rebuilding projects in Central America ... or even connecting remotely from your home on fundraising campaigns, grant reports, or critical communications - you have the opportunity to work towards a world where everyone has food, a voice and a safe place to call home.

Purpose

This employee will coordinate ELT activities, including volunteers and serve as school liaison for clients of the IRP under the Virginia Refuge Student Achievement Project (VRSAP) in order to ensure their early employment and self-sufficiency.

Responsibilities

•      Coordinate pre-arrival activities with other staff.
•     Maintain a database of volunteers who provide core services and Life Skills training.
•     Collaborate with orient schools and other agencies who provide services to VRSAP clients.
•     Maintain case files related to clients including School Liaison/ ELT activities.
•      Coordinate tutoring and Life Skills orientation activities with clients.
•      Coordinate and Monitor VRSAP client ESL and school progress.
•      Plan school and community events that strengthen the VRSAP program.
•      Assist school orientation, registration, resources, and activities for new arrivals.
•      Ensure clients’ involvement in Parent/Teacher conferences.
•      Strengthen parent’s participation in classroom and school events.
•      Assist VRSAP client’s participation in summer and after school programing.
•      Provide university preparation assistance for High School VRSAP students.
•     Attend staff, VRSAP, CWS, Office of New Americans (ONA) and other training sessions.
•     Assist with community events that assist VRSAP clients’ integration into the community such as World Refugee Day Festivals,
• International Festival, photography displays, art, sports events, and other activities.
•     Help with other duties as needed in areas such as grant writing
•      Write VRSAP updates for the QPAR report
•     Maintain confidentiality standards.
•      Assists CWS Harrisonburg Office Director in any duties deemed necessary.  Undertake other duties as assigned by the office director.
• Enter ELT and VRSAP reporting into VNIS in a timely manner.

Qualifications

Education:  

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in lieu of degree

Experience: 

• Minimum of 2 years previous work experience in refugee or immigrant related services or similar experience.  
• Experience working in church-based agency preferred.  
• A background in case management is also preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Office, database software, and the internet.

Skills:

• Language fluency in written and spoken English is required.

• Must have superior written and verbal communication skills.
• Must be computer literate with proficiency in MS Office.
• Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment required.
• Close attention to detail is essential.

• Bilingual or multilingual staff will be required to translate as needed and available.

Special Requirements

• This is an in-person position located in Harrisonburg, VA.

• The successful candidate must be computer literate, with proficiency in MS Office and internet applications.  
• A valid driver’s license is also required, along with the ability to move furniture and donations.   The candidate will be expected to transport clients in their own vehicle (mileage will be reimbursed) and must have a reliable working car for this purpose.  
• The successful candidate must pass a background check.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. of weight. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.
• Must be willing to work evenings and weekends.  

• This position is primarily in the office and community.
• During busy times other duties may be assigned. 

Background Check requirements:

• The job will require reference checks, standard criminal background checks, and motor vehicle background checks.

Benefits

CWS offers a competitive benefits package that includes: - 403 (b) Retirement Plan - Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance - Generous Paid Time Off (18 Paid Days Off; 24 Days after 2 Years) - 14 Official Holidays - 12 Sick Days Off (Accrued monthly) - Life Insurance and AD&D - Long Term and Short-Term Disability - Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Health Savings Account - Flexible Spending Accounts