The YMCA of Stafford County is looking for a VISTA volunteer to assist with in house food programming, education and community engagement. Specifically this includes: Oversee the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) program at the branch. This involves planning menus, purchasing food and providing snacks to ELC and Schools out programs and will take approximately 30 -50% of time. Create and lead nutritional education programs for youth at the Y and in the community. With other food serving organizations in Strafford County identify need and access of recipients. This will involve gathering information and researching community needs. The ideal candidate will have a passion for food insecurity, working with youth and community collaborations. They will be able to handle details well and engage with people from all walks of life. Key attributes will be a leader and a self-starter.
Service Activities
Supporting the efforts of this important YMCA program working with students and staff. Attend monthly meetings with Food Insecurity Corps members and program staff. Work on promoting efforts of the program through community social campaigns, attending community events,, etc.
Community Need Addressed
This member will work within Strafford County working to support efforts of the statewide Food Insecurity Corps. This initiative is focused on fighting hunger and addressing basic needs in the state of NH. There will be added local needs met in supporting students through the pandemic.
Position Outcomes
Increase in support to students who may be food insecure due to the pandemic. Assist in the creation of a statewide network of community members, community organizations, and business organizations to bolster the needs of community members, specifically around food.
Benefits
Childcare assistance if eligible, Education award upon successful completion of service, Health coverage, Living allowance, Non-competitive eligibility (federal jobs), Relocation allowance (if applicable), Student loan forbearance, Training
Education Benefits
College Degree, Credential or Certification
Skills you will gain
Project management, community organizing, Food Insecurity knowledge, social campaigns, teamwork
Competencies You Will Develop
Communication
Lead group discussion, Listen to and consider others' viewpoints, Maintain open lines of communication with others, Speak clearly, in precise language and in a logical, organized and coherent manner
Creativity & Problem Solving
Communicate the problem to appropriate personnel, Improvise, Select and implement well-considered solution
Teamwork
Derive consensus, Establish a high degree of trust and credibility with others, Interact professionally and respectfully with supervisors and co-workers, Stay positive and outcome oriented, Use appropriate strategies and solutions for dealing with conflicts and differences to maintain a smooth workflow
Decisions
Accepts responsibility, Identify and prioritize the key issues involved to facilitate the decision making process
Tools
Operate tools and equipment in accordance with established operating procedures, safety standards, and ethical guidelines, Seek opportunities to improve knowledge of tools and technologies that may assist in streamlining work and improving productivity
Planning
Able to prioritize various competing tasks, Create environment of contribution, Create plan of action, schedule tasks so that work is completed on time, Demonstrate the effective allocation of time and resources efficiently, Drive decision making, Facilitate group planning, Set goals
Service
Be pleasant, courteous, professional and respectful when dealing with internal and external customers or clients, Honor the privilege of being able to work with and for those being served, Provide personalized, prompt, and efficient service to meet the requirements, requests and needs of customers, Understand and anticipate the needs of others