WHO WE ARE: We are more than a nonprofit organization. We are a ministry of service that includes nearly 500 paid, professional employees dedicated to helping those in need to rebuild their lives and reach their full potential. Founded locally in 1911, the Northern California & Northern Nevada affiliate of Volunteers of America (VOA-NCNN) is one of the largest providers of social services in the region, operating more than 40 programs including housing, employment services, substance abuse, and recovery services to families, individuals, veterans, seniors, and youth. In fact, VOA-NCNN provides shelter or housing to over 4,000 men, women, and children every night.

OUR MISSION: To change individual lives, instill hope, increase self-worth and facilitate independence through quality housing, employment, and related supportive services. Volunteers of America Northern California & Northern Nevada inspires self-sufficiency, dignity, and hope by providing critical health and human services to thousands of vulnerable individuals and families across Northern California & Northern Nevada.

PROGRAM AND LOCATION: VOA-NCNN, a Certified Great Place to Work, is recruiting for full-time Mentor positions for the Adolfo Housing Program at our Mather Community Campus. Full-time employees (working 30 or more hours a week) are eligible for a benefits package that includes paid holidays, vacation, sick pay, health, dental, vision, life, and short-term disability insurance coverage. 

POSITION SUMMARY:

Mentors are responsible for the safety and security of the clients and property. Mentors assure quality service to all program participants utilizing a compassionate and professional manner while assuring that program objectives are met. Objectives include supportive interaction with participants, acting as a role model, and maintenance of a safe and welcoming environment and performance of all work duties as required. Work is performed in a cost-effective and service-oriented manner as it relates to established organizational objectives.

OBJECTIVES/ACTIVITIES:

A. Responsible for performing daily work requirements to achieve established objectives of the department.

1. Maintain extensive knowledge of the fire warning and suppression system and evacuation procedures to ensure all residents respond appropriately in case of emergency.
2. Maintain clear, thorough, routine communication with Program Supervisor in all responsibilities listed.
3. Provide “awake” active/mobile shift coverage while maintaining grounds security at all times.
4. Maintain all shift logs and complete incident reports as required.
5. Help prepare apartments for resident move-ins.
6. Make hourly security checks during designated period.
7. Explain rules and regulations and enforce residents’ observance of the rules.
8. Transport (drive) and/or arrange transportation of clients as required. Keep van clean, gas tank filled, keep mileage log, and report any mechanical problems immediately.
9. Assist on-site residents with minor problems and answer routine questions.
10. Receive maintenance requests from clients. Check equipment in and out (such as vacuum cleaners); inspect for damage, maintain as needed.
11. Perform housekeeping and other maintenance tasks as needed.
12. Provide residents with a safe, non-judgmental environment.
13. De-escalate crisis before they develop and respond to crisis situations in an appropriate manner.
14. Comprehend and adhere to ethical standards and confidentiality laws.
15. Perform routine clerical duties as required.

B. Responsible for assistance with client development.

1. Address and report any biological, psychological, or social issues that promote disharmony, criminal, or otherwise non-productive behavior.
2. Support in implementing plans to assist the clients in pursuing educational, vocational, housing and other goals.
3. Assist with conflict resolution among clients when necessary.
4. Role model positive attitudes and behaviors to help clients as they work toward self-sufficiency.
5. Write in Resident Log all activities and interactions with each resident.

C. Responsible for all areas of daily program maintenance in compliance with company policies.

1. Read all logs daily. Write in all logs daily.
2. Monitor inventory of program equipment and supplies.
3. Notify management of potential workflow problems and resource needs necessary to attain performance standards.
4. Adhere to staffing schedules in order to provide adequate/safe staffing coverage and to accomplish program objectives.
5. Direct available resources as required.
6. Maintain an above-average working knowledge of fire, safety, and health standards to assure safe work environment for all clients and personnel.

D. Responsible for self-development.

1. Continually learn and enhance technical and interpersonal skills.
2. Maintain valid adult, child, and infant CPR and First Aid certifications to ensure appropriate response in cases of an emergency.
3. Attend staff meetings/assigned training and complete required certifications (CPR, First Aid, etc.)

EQUIVALENT EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

This position requires demonstrated ability to communicate and comprehend oral and written instructions and to provide services to clients without ethnic or social prejudices. It requires general knowledge of issues and challenges unique to foster youth population, homelessness, substance abuse, minorities, and people with disabilities. The Mentor must be able to utilize a range of interventions to work with clients of varying needs and levels of functioning. Must have the flexibility to work irregular hours and have the willingness to function as a team member. Valid California driver's license and ability to meet the organization’s insurance carrier guidelines are required. Must pass all required background clearances in accordance with agency, County, State, and federal standards. CPR/First Aid certification is required within 90 days of employment. Completion and maintenance of all required training and health clearances.

SPECIFIC SKILLS REQUIRED:

Teamwork skills
Oral and written communication skills
Ability to assist other people
Organizational skills
Computer skills
Analytical and decision-making ability

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Lift and move up to 50 pounds
Stand, walk, bend, stoop, and sit frequently
Kneel occasionally
Climb stairs regularly
Be able to maneuver quickly in emergency situations to assist clients as needed