Community Connect Outreach Volunteers

Description:

Coticipate is seeking enthusiastic volunteers dedicated to our mission of assisting individuals and families in Baltimore City affected by the digital divide with obtaining needed services, information, and resources. Thousands of Baltimore residents face limitations or barriers in accessing the internet and digital technology. As a result, they are deprived of services, information, and resources that can help remedy the hardships they face dealing with issues such as not having food, being without shelter, looming eviction and utility cutoffs, falling behind on school assignments, and inability to find employment. We are looking for volunteers whose interests align not only with Coticipate’s mission, but also our purpose of addressing the needs of residents affected by the digital divide by connecting them to services, information, and resources to help improve their circumstances and outcomes.

Responsibilities:

• Raising awareness (through social media, community canvassing, and/or telephone contact) about the digital divide in Baltimore City and how Coticipate is actively addressing this issue.
• Identifying residents who lack access to the internet and digital technology as well as those who face limitations or barriers to access.
• Determining what services, assistance, and/or resources they need.
• Conducting short interviews and inquiries to gather first-hand experiences of individuals and families dealing with homelessness, joblessness, lack of food resources, and other hardships.
• Responding to requests for assistance by affected residents and guiding them to appropriate services, information, and resources.
• Being a positive representation of Coticipate to the public.

Minimum Qualifications:

• At least one year of outreach, community service, or volunteer work.
• Knowledge and familiarity with Baltimore City neighborhoods and communities.
• Social Media skills.
• Public contact experience.

Other Qualifications:

• Comfortability in approaching and engaging in conversations with residents.
• Respectful, patient, and tactful demeanor to individuals who may be going through crisis or trauma.
• Sensitivity to the needs of those who may be homeless, unemployed, disabled, food insecure, or dealing with health challenges.
• Understanding of the adversities faced by underserved and marginalized populations.
• Interpersonal communication skills to effectively interact with members of the community.
• Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to navigate stressful environments and situations that may arise when dealing with the public.

Minimum Education Requirements:

• Some college or coursework.

Optional:

• Proficiency in a second language is helpful, but not required.
• Valid Maryland driver’s license or access to transportation.

Benefits of volunteering with Coticipate:

• Contribute towards making a difference in the lives of Baltimore residents who face disadvantages of not having access to the internet, digital technology, and online resources.
• Receive a letter of reference verifying volunteer service and hours completed.
• Participate in volunteer appreciation and recognition activities.