The Town of Cowen Community Engagement Coordinator VISTA will support the continued growth of capacity as the Town of Cowen, as it continues to build a local economy supported by it's outdoor recreation assets as a Mon Forrest gateway community. Through relationship building, the member will identify new and emerging needs of local businesses, and in partnership with The Hub's community coach and the Town, will identify solutions. By supporting a collaborative environment within the community, The Town will build a more cohesive and integrated community of people and organizations that will work together for a common goal. With a population of less than 500, The Town of Cowen is a small community with big heart! Applications will be collected on a rolling basis, with an anticipated start in August 2022.
Service Activities
In this position, the VISTA member will identify and propose projects for the community, support funding opportunities, develop systems for monitoring ongoing growth, and build relationships across the area. This is a perfect position for someone interested in outdoor recreation and local economy building! The member will also be a part of WV Community Development Hub's AmeriCorpsVISTA cohort, in which they will have regular access to peer support, professional development opportunities and more.
Community Need Addressed
This role will support the community as it continues to build momentum around developing a robust economy supported by outdoor recreation tourism.
Position Outcomes
As a result of this VISTA project, the Town of Cowen will have a more cohesive and engaged community, invested in its' own future.
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
Members are encouraged to pursue relevant certifications if they are interested but it is not required. We support members in their pursuit to continue their education and development by assisting them in application processes if requested.
Skills you will gain
time management, grant writing, leadership, team building, team work, community development, public speaking, volunteer management, volunteer recruitment, partnership development
Competencies You Will Develop
Communication
Demonstrate sensitivity and empathy, 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, Turn taking, Write cleary and effectively
Creativity & Problem Solving
Able to identify and define the problem, Capable of generating possible solutions, Communicate the problem to appropriate personnel, Improvise, Provide relevant expertise, Select and implement well-considered solution
Teamwork
Derive consensus, Develop constructive working relationships and maintain them over time, 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, Anticipate the consequences of decisions, Identify and prioritize the key issues involved to facilitate the decision making process, Involve people appropriately in decisions that may impact them, Quickly respond with a back-up plan if a decision goes amiss
Tools
Carefully consider which tools or technological solutions are appropriate for a given job, Consistently choose the best tool or technological solution for the problem at hand, 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, Effectively delegate tasks, Facilitate group planning, Set goals
Service
Be pleasant, courteous, professional and respectful when dealing with internal and external customers or clients, Evaluate customer or client satisfaction, 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, Recognize the importance of maintaining privacy and confidentiality of those being served, Understand and anticipate the needs of others, Understand the importance of one's role in the functioning of the organization, Understand the significance of maintaining a healthful and safe environment