Gunnison Country Food Pantry - Food Security Coordinator

GCFP is looking for a self-motivated and passionate team member to help with the Food Pantry’s program administration and volunteer coordination. This position will be directly supervised by the Operations Coordinator and Pantry Manager with oversite from the Executive Director. We are looking for a team member dedicated to making a positive impact in the Gunnison Valley by working to better Pantry programs that reach those in need. Food Security Coordinator position will aid in program facilitation, such as recording and reporting information, working with program partners to support the initiative, and develop materials and program infrastructure as needed.

The Food Security Advocate position will assist in the development of GCFP robust volunteer program via assisting in volunteer recruitment, placement, retention, and recognition. Every year, GCFP has over 100 volunteers who donate time to feeding their neighbors. Additionally, the Food Security Coordinator must attend all Gunnison Community Health Coalition meetings as an active member and aid in administrative support such as note take and sub-group participation.

Service Activities

• Reporting and Recording of the following Pantry Programs:
o Fresh Mobile Pantry
o Gunni-Packs
o Mini- Pantries
o Volunteer names and hours
o Healthy Snacks
• Assist in Program Administration, such as coordination of food pick up/drop off/ Shopping for Pantry Programs, soliciting feedback, and providing suggestions on the following Programs:
• Fresh Mobile Pantry
o Gunni-Packs
o Mini- Pantries
o Volunteer names and hours
o Healthy Snacks
• Assist in Volunteer Coordination for the day-to-day Pantry operations and Pantry Programs:
o Assist in scheduling volunteers for their shifts.
o Assist in making follow up phone calls and emails
o Manage GCFP’s online volunteer inquiry form.
o Assist in orientating volunteers to the Pantry and specific shift.
o Assist with Volunteer Recruitment and Retention: Table at one event/location per-month to recruit volunteers.
o Develop volunteer recruitment materials; brochure, poster, QRT sheet, etc.
o Coordinate the Annual Volunteer Appreciation Event.
• Gunnison Community Health Coalition
o Attend all Gunnison Community Health Coalition meetings.
o Support GCHC administratively such as note taking, sub-group participation, and attending GCHC initiatives and programs.

Community Need Addressed

The Food Security Coordinator at Gunnison Country Food Pantry addresses key community needs in Gunnison Valley, CO. By enhancing the efficiency of food assistance programs and improving volunteer engagement, the position aims to better serve individuals facing food insecurity. Active participation in the Gunnison Community Health Coalition reflects a commitment to broader community health initiatives. Administrative support and program improvements ensure smooth operations, while educational outreach efforts increase awareness of GCFP's services. Overall, the position is tailored to bridge gaps in program effectiveness, volunteer engagement, community health collaboration, and public understanding of food security issues.

Position Outcomes

The Food Security Coordinator's service at Gunnison Country Food Pantry is expected to yield several desired outcomes. Firstly, improvements in the efficiency of food assistance programs, such as the Fresh Mobile Pantry and Gunni-Packs, will lead to increased support for individuals and families facing food insecurity. The establishment of a robust volunteer program is anticipated to enhance overall program effectiveness. Active participation in the Gunnison Community Health Coalition is expected to contribute to broader community health initiatives. Additionally, administrative support and program improvements aim to ensure smoother operations, while educational outreach efforts seek to raise awareness of GCFP's services within the community. Overall, the service is designed to bring about tangible and positive changes in program effectiveness, volunteer engagement, community health collaboration, and public understanding of food security issues in Gunnison Valley.

Benefits

Education award upon successful completion of service, Health coverage, Living allowance, Student loan forbearance

Skills you will gain

Program Administration: Corps members will gain proficiency in program facilitation, including recording and reporting information, coordinating food pick-up/drop-off, and managing logistics for various pantry programs like Fresh Mobile Pantry, Gunni-Packs, and Mini-Pantries. Volunteer Coordination: Skills in volunteer recruitment, placement, retention, and recognition will be honed, with a focus on scheduling shifts, conducting follow-up communication, and managing the online volunteer inquiry form. This includes orientating volunteers to the pantry and coordinating the Annual Volunteer Appreciation Event. Community Engagement: The role involves attending Gunnison Community Health Coalition meetings, supporting administrative tasks, and participating in coalition initiatives. Corps members will develop skills in engaging with community partners, taking notes, participating in sub-groups, and contributing to health coalition programs. Organizational and Administrative Skills: Given the nature of the position, strong organizational skills are essential for efficiently managing and recording information related to pantry programs, volunteers, and administrative support tasks. Communication and Teamwork: Effective communication skills are crucial for collaborating with the Operations Coordinator, Pantry Manager, Executive Director, and other team members. This includes engaging with program partners, soliciting feedback, and providing suggestions for program improvement.

Competencies You Will Develop

• Activity Types Hands On Activities, Office Activities, Professional Activities
• Focus Areas Education & Youth, Health & Nutrition
• Length of Service 11 Months
• Education Requirements High School Graduate
• Placement Individual Placement
• Service Setting Community-based Nonprofit, Social Enterprise (nonprofit)
• Weekly Training Hours 4