Description

Job Objective:

This position is responsible for assisting the City of South Bend's efforts to curb gang involvement and violent crime among youth and young adults. Responsibilities include providing street outreach services to gang members, their associates, and families. The aim is to promote positive behaviors, leadership, goal setting, decision-making, employment readiness, and communication skills through various strategies. The Community Outreach Worker primarily focuses on increasing awareness of community programs. Successful individuals in this role possess proactive personalities and a strong commitment to aiding others. Problem-solving and brainstorming abilities are essential, along with a prompt response to urgent needs. Discretion and independent judgment are crucial when representing clients, funding sources, and Goodwill. This position reports to the GVI/SAVE Manager who reviews performance annually.

Essential Job Functions:

• Knows and understands the Goodwill Mission: Strengthen communities by empowering individuals and families through education, training and job placement.
• Embodies our company Core Values of Work, Ethics, Respect and Development.
• Respond promptly to shooting scenes as notified by the South Bend Police Department where an outreach presence is requested.
• Provide a calming presence at the scene of shootings and utilize knowledge of the city and community relationships to stabilize situations and deescalate potential crises or outbursts.
• Engage with individuals affected by the shooting, offering support, resources, and assistance as needed.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, medical personnel, and community organizations to ensure a coordinated response and effective support for those impacted by violence.
• Visit hospitals following shootings to provide support and assistance to victims and their families, employing the same objectives as when responding to shooting scenes.
• Act as a credible messenger with lived experience, connecting with individuals on a personal level and building trust within the community.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions, respecting the privacy and dignity of those served.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Qualifications

Required Skills and Abilities:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Demonstrated ability to remain calm and composed in high-stress situations and effectively deescalate conflicts.
• Knowledge of the South Bend area, including its neighborhoods, resources, and community organizations.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, in response to shooting incidents.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Goodwill Industries of Michiana, including promoting community engagement and empowerment.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check and drug screen.
• Must have reliable transportation, a current driver's license, and provide proof of insurance to travel to different job sites.

Education and Experience:

• Lived experience within the community, preferably with direct experience in overcoming challenges related to violence or trauma.
• Additional related experience preferred.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to travel to Goodwill satellite offices, funding stream’s offices or participant meetings in public facilities.
• Ability to stand and sit for extended periods of time.

Equipment Used:

• Computer/internet/email
• Printer/scanner/copier/fax machine
• Smart phone
• Calculator
• Automobile

Environmental Conditions:

• Office environment.
• Intervention and participation in community-based activities outside of the office environment.