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Community Engagement Specialist

Volunteers of America Colorado, Durango, CO, United States


Volunteers of America Colorado is a nonprofit, faith‑based organization dedicated to helping those in‑need transform their lives. Through more than 50 distinct human service programs, VOA changes the lives of more than 140,000 vulnerable Coloradoans each year. VOA services include housing and emergency shelters, hunger and nutrition services, and many other community support programs. Our work touches the mind, body, heart and ultimately the spirit of those we serve. VOA integrates compassion with highly effective programs that build and strengthen communities.

Position Overview As a Volunteer Specialist, you will recruit, orient, and engage individual volunteers and volunteer groups in VOA Colorado’s Southwest Colorado programs. You will be responsible for intake, organization, record‑keeping, and reporting of Volunteer Services Program volunteers, including youth, families, adults and groups.

Key Responsibilities

Recruit, select, orient, and place individual and group volunteers in VOA Colorado programs throughout Southwest Colorado.

Coordinate application processes, background checks, safety/confidentiality training, and Safehouse orientation for all volunteers.

Lead and supervise volunteer‑led activities for shelter guests, including maintenance, meal prep, and donation sorting.

Maintain accurate volunteer data, including hours served, in compliance with legal and regulatory standards, using Salesforce.

Develop relationships with local businesses, civic groups, faith communities, and schools to build a pipeline of engaged volunteers.

Coordinate house and yard maintenance projects, and manage the service calendar involving providers, vendors, groups, and volunteers.

Assist with grant reporting related to volunteer contributions and impact.

Represent VOA Colorado in regional volunteer networks and community events to amplify program awareness and engagement.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Directly supervise individual and group volunteers, ensuring clarity of roles, safety, and meaningful engagement.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

Requires lifting and carrying up to 40 pounds.

Bending, climbing, stooping, kneeling, reaching, crouching, and squatting.

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs for donation sorting or event setup.

Tend to work some evenings and weekends.

Must be able to stand, walk, and move for long periods during events or projects (up to 10 hours).

Position Type & Hours

Full time

Hourly, typically Monday‑Friday 8:00‑4:30

Weekends and evenings as needed (approximately once a month)

Location

Durango Community Shelter

Salary $22.00‑$24.00 per hour, non‑exempt.

Employee must be able to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation and without posing a direct threat to the safety or health of self or others. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. Employee will perform job according to applicable laws. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. If you require a reasonable accommodation to perform this role, please contact HR@VOAColorado.org to begin the Interactive Process.

Benefits

Vacation Time

Separate Sick Time

Paid Holidays

Floating Holidays

Personal Days

Volunteer/Wellness Day

Tuition Assistance

Pension Plan

403(b) Retirement Plan with Agency Match

Health, Dental, Vision, Pet Insurances

Life Insurance

Accident Insurance

Employee Assistance/Work Life Balance Program

Employee Discount Program

LifeLock with Norton

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Volunteers of America is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. Position will remain open until filled. VISA sponsorship is not offered for this role.

Competencies

Models VOA Colorado’s AIRS values: Accountability, Integrity, Respect, and Service.

Embodies the organization’s virtues: Hungry, Humble, and People Smart (HHS).

Demonstrates servant‑leadership through transparency, joyfulness, and compassion.

Maintains a trauma‑informed, client‑centered approach to all work.

Displays high energy, emotional intelligence, and a proactive, problem‑solving mindset.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate degree in a related field or equivalent relevant experience. Minimum one year of supervisory or administrative experience.

At least one year of experience in volunteer coordination, supervision, or administrative support.

Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance.

Preferred Qualifications

Six months of direct service experience with vulnerable or at‑risk populations.

Experience working with survivors of domestic violence and/or crisis intervention.

Bilingual preferred.

Previous experience using Salesforce or similar CRM/volunteer management platforms.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Publisher.

Knowledge of or willingness to learn about issues related to homelessness, poverty, aging, mental health, veterans, and survivors of domestic violence.

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