Community Collaboration VISTA Member

Catholic Charities Neighborhood Center (CCNC) is seeking a Community Collaboration VISTA Member to strengthen community partnerships, expand outreach efforts, and support the development of sustainable programs that address poverty in the Wheeling area.

About the role

This is a capacity-building position, not a direct service role. The VISTA Member will focus on facilitating partnerships, enhancing programming, and building systems that support long-term impact rather than providing direct assistance to individuals.

Responsibilities

• Develop outreach strategies to increase awareness of CCNC services.
• Represent CCNC at community meetings, events, and coalition groups.
• Identify unmet needs within the community.
• Build and strengthen relationships with:
  • Addiction recovery organizations (AA, NA, treatment providers).
  • Faith-based organizations and ministries (including Bible study collaborations).
  • Schools and youth-serving agencies (including backpack food programs).
  • Local nonprofits, healthcare, and social service providers.
• Maintain and expand a network of community partners.
• Assist in developing and expanding collaborative programming, including:
  • Recovery support access and referral pathways.
  • Faith-based engagement opportunities.
  • Food security initiatives and youth-focused programs.
  • Community-based activities within CCNC.
• Help design program structures, processes, and sustainability plans.
• Support joint initiatives with partner organizations.
• Help organize community events such as resource fairs and outreach activities.
• Improve coordination and communication between agencies.
• Create systems to track partnerships, outreach efforts, and program outcomes.
• Develop resource guides and referral tools.
• Help build sustainable processes that continue after the VISTA term.

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience in community outreach and partnership development.
• Skills in program design, implementation, and evaluation.
• Experience working within a nonprofit and collaborative service network.
• Opportunities to engage in community-based problem solving.

Requirements

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Organized, self-motivated, and able to work independently.
• Passion for community development and serving vulnerable populations.
• Interest in nonprofit work, outreach, or program development.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience or interest in community outreach, partnerships, or social services.
• Familiarity with addiction recovery systems, faith-based work, or food programs.

Important Role Information

• This is a capacity-building position, not a direct service role.
• The VISTA Member will not:
  • Provide direct services, case management, or counseling.
  • Lead AA/NA or other support groups.
  • Replace staff or volunteers.
• Focus is on building programs, partnerships, and systems.

Schedule

Full-time, 1-year AmeriCorps VISTA commitment. Some evening or weekend hours for outreach/events.

About CCNC

Catholic Charities Neighborhood Center provides support and resources to individuals and families in need through community-based programming, outreach, and partnerships. The center is committed to building a stronger, more connected community through collaboration and service.