PPL Self-Sufficiency Program Re-entry: AmeriCorps VISTA

AmeriCorps VISTA Position Description
PPL Self-Sufficiency Program Re-entry VISTA

Council on Crime and Justice – MN Prisoner Reentry Program and Project for Pride in Living (PPL) – Self-Sufficiency Program (SSP)

PPL Service Center – 1035 E Franklin Ave, Minneapolis MN, 55404

Position Summary:
AmeriCorps* VISTA is a national service program, similar to the overseas Peace Corps program, which involves people over 17 in a year of hands-on service to their communities. People with criminal histories have great difficulty finding and keeping stable housing. The VISTA will work with the service lead to put in place programs, partnerships and resources for the Re-Start permanent housing program that will connect ex-offenders with community organizations for services and referrals, increasing residents housing and employment stability.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Assist low income residents with criminal histories to build sense of community within their building and in the greater neighborhood through meetings, events and outreach into the community.
  • Assist in the design of PPL Re-Start housing program
  • Promotion of PPL Re-Start housing opportunity
  • Aide in service coordination and the formation of partnerships between PPL and other reentry programs
  • Establish partnerships with agencies providing necessary support services such as medical and mental health care, chemical dependency counseling and treatment, and parenting support to help ensure successful re-entry into the community.
  • Explore creation of a volunteer mentor program for ex-offenders within the Re-start housing.

Qualifications:

  • Experience and interest in working with people from diverse backgrounds, ethnic cultures, economic and social situations
  • Interest in Community and Affordable Housing issues
  • Ability to work independently and as a team member
  • Strong organizational and problem solving skills
  • Self-starter with excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Facilitation and public speaking skills
  • Ability to organize, coordinate, track and complete multiple tasks as well as adjust to changing priorities
  • Basic personal computer skills (word processing, internet, email, etc.)
  • Ability to travel within the Twin Cities
  • Ability to work some evenings and/or weekends
  • Ability to research information pertaining to resident and community strengths and concerns
  • College degree preferred

Compensation/Benefits:
The AmeriCorps* VISTA living allowance is a $936/month. There is also an educational award of $5,350 OR $1,500cash award upon completion of the full 365 days of service. May be eligible for student loans deferment. Health coverage, transportation reimbursement, childcare assistance if eligible, relocation allowance and training provided.

Service Term:
Year-long, full-time service commitment from August 7, 2010 – August 6, 201. Required Pre-Service Orientation training August 3-6th. Paid work outside of the sponsoring agency at any time is prohibited.

How to Apply:
Apply online at http://www.americorps.gov/ (Search for Ex-Offender Reentry in MN or Program Listing ID is 36267). Also send a resume and cover letter to:

sarah.koschinska@ppl-inc.org (email strongly preferred)

Reentry VISTA
Attn: Sarah Koschinska
Project for Pride in Living
1035 E. Franklin Ave.
Minneapolis, MN 55404

For more information contact Sarah Koschinska (612) 455-5168 • sarah.koschinska@ppl-inc.org
We are committed to recruiting and engaging individuals without regard to disability, gender, race, religion or sexual orientation. Reasonable accommodations will be made upon request. Alternative formats of this document are also available.