Housing Community Coordinator (Internship)

Tennessee Higher Education Initiative

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Job Summary

Tennessee Higher Education Initiative (THEI), a non-profit committed to disrupting harmful systems and cultivating opportunities for autonomy and success, is seeking a dedicated individual for our Housing Community Coordinator Internship. We offer college access to incarcerated individuals within Tennessee prisons, pave the way for skilled reentry, and alleviate barriers to ongoing education and achievement.

We stand on principles of harm reduction, healing, and valuing the lived experiences of those we serve, and we actively strive for the world we envision via systemic work and direct service.

Our Nashville office invites applicants for an in-person role, the Housing Community Coordinator Internship, under the supervision of the Director of Transitional Programs. The selected candidate will augment the efforts of our Transitional Programs team and interact with participants in the reentry program.

Our preferred start time will be October 2023. We prioritize applicants who have a robust commitment to serving at-risk populations, understand THEI’s mission within a broader social justice movement, and demonstrate expertise in event planning, data handling, and workshop development. We value organizational and time management skills, flexibility for occasional evening and weekend shifts, and a deep commitment to combating poverty and incarceration cycles.

Experience with the criminal legal system, higher education system, and reentry services/providers is beneficial. The candidate must own a reliable car and feel at ease working within prison settings and alongside incarcerated individuals. Those impacted by the criminal justice system are particularly encouraged to apply.

The internship is a 25-hour per week (9 months / 40 Weeks) commitment, with compensation set at $15 per hour. The review of applications is ongoing.

Job Responsibilities

Our social justice commitments include robust service to at-risk populations, understanding THEI’s mission in a larger social justice context, using the Person First language, and breaking cycles of poverty and incarceration.

Internship prerequisites entail a 25-hour weekly commitment, enrollment in or plans for higher education from Fall 2023, a one-year commitment starting in October 2023, and pursuing a degree in Education, Social Justice, Human Services, Public Policy, or Public Health. We expect interns to support the work of our Transitional Programs portfolio and share our commitment to serving at-risk populations and breaking cycles of poverty and incarceration.

• Assisting with the coordination and implementation of reentry housing programs: As an intern, you will work closely with the Transitional Programs Manager to support the execution of reentry housing initiatives, ensuring they meet the specific needs of the beneficiaries.
• Conducting Outreach: Reach out to existing partners and potential collaborators to strengthen and expand our network of reentry service providers.
• Workshop Development: Create, facilitate, and improve workshops centered on reentry preparation and life skills education for incarcerated individuals.
• Event Planning: Assist in planning, organizing, and executing events that promote the mission of THEI and engage the community. This may include informational sessions, fundraisers, or reentry support events.
• Data Management: Track, analyze, and report on program-related data to aid in evaluating program success and areas for improvement. Assist with the maintenance of accurate records related to program activities.
• Case Management Support: Provide assistance in coordinating services and support for THEI alumni during their transition period. This might include helping with housing applications, job searches and connecting them with additional resources as needed.
• Research Support: Conduct research on recent trends and best practices in reentry housing to ensure that our programs remain relevant and effective.
• Communication: Maintain open and frequent communication with program participants, team members, and community partners. Respond promptly to any inquiries or requests for information.
• Administrative Duties: Assist in the day-to-day operations of the office, including but not limited to, filing, scheduling meetings, preparing reports, and responding to correspondence.
• Compliance: Ensure all activities comply with legal regulations and ethical standards, including maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive participant information.
• Attend Professional Development Sessions: Participate in relevant professional development opportunities, team meetings, and training sessions to continuously enhance your understanding and skills in reentry services.
• Special Projects: Undertake any additional projects or duties assigned by the Transitional Programs Manager to support the overall mission of the organization.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications include an associate degree and one year of experience in office management, social work, and public health, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Drive, data management skills, a valid driver’s license, flexible scheduling, prompt email responses, and a passion for fostering relationships and creative problem-solving. A commitment to self-care is also required.

Social Justice Requirements:

• A strong commitment to providing service to at-risk populations and understanding the mission of THEI to be located within a larger social justice movement.
• A strong commitment to breaking cycles of poverty and incarceration.
• A commitment to use the Person First language because there is evidence that language can shape perceptions about an incarcerated person’s capacity to change.

Internship Requirements:

• 25-hour-a-week time commitment
• 9 months / 40 Weeks beginning October 2023.
• Support the work of the Transitional Programs portfolio’s reentry housing program.
• A strong commitment to providing service to at-risk populations and understanding the mission of THEI to be located within a larger social-justice movement.
• A strong commitment to breaking cycles of poverty and incarceration.

Additional Information

Benefits

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to work@thei.org with “Housing and Community Coordinator” in the subject line.

THEI is an equal opportunity employer; all applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

Details

• Date Posted: August 21, 2023
• Type: Part-Time
• Job Function: Other
• Service Area: Housing
• Salary Range: $15/hour