Drop-in & Hypothermia Coordinator

Rising Hope UMC is a faith-based community dedicated to serving our neighbors experiencing poverty and homelessness. Through ministries such as our Food Market, Rising Hope Kitchen, Hope Closet, Hypothermia Shelter, and Drop-in Center, we provide both physical and spiritual sustenance in an inclusive and compassionate environment.

Position Summary

The Drop-in & Hypothermia Coordinator plays a pivotal role in overseeing year-round drop-in services and managing the hypothermia shelter program during the winter season. This position requires strong organizational skills, effective communication, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all guests.

The Drop-in & Hypothermia Coordinator reports to the Emergency Services Manager.

This is a full-time, exempt position with varied hours depending on the season. From November 15 – April 1, the schedule will include evenings and weekends to support hypothermia shelter operations. From April 2 – November 14, the schedule will primarily be Monday–Friday, 9:30am–4:30pm.

Drop-in & Hypothermia Coordinator Responsibilities

Year-Round Responsibilities

• Maintain a culture that exemplifies Rising Hope’s core tenets of creating a loving and inclusive environment for all persons.
• Exemplify the standards necessary to lead within a faith community environment.
• Welcome and assist drop-in guests, answering questions and connecting them to available services and applications.
• Conduct initial intakes for individuals seeking extended services.
• Oversee documentation and distribution of emergency clothing and supplies.
• Supervise and train volunteers, ensuring the fellowship hall remains clean, sanitized, and orderly.
• Track and report the number of guests served daily.
• Build positive relationships with guests from diverse backgrounds.
• Serve as a liaison with local hospitals regarding medical discharge needs when appropriate.

Hypothermia Season (Nov 15 – April 1)

• Manage daily operations of the hypothermia shelter program.
• Create and oversee Resident Service Specialist (RSS) staff schedules.
• Ensure all required documentation is completed by staff.
• Provide backup support to the hypothermia team leader.
• Train and support staff and volunteers.
• Coordinate food distribution and housekeeping services.
• Partner with Ventures in Community and shelter volunteer coordinators to ensure seamless operations.

Non-Hypothermia Season (Apr 2 – Nov 14)

• Support drop-in center operations, using a person-centered approach to meet immediate needs.
• Conduct needs assessments, make referrals, and assist with shelter entry screenings.
• Maintain progress notes and share updates with appropriate staff.
• Manage the hiring process for hypothermia season staff.
• Collaborate with Ventures in Community to recruit partner churches for the upcoming hypothermia season.
• Assist with emergency responses during extreme weather, including extended summer drop-in hours and extreme heat services.
• Complete an annual review of hypothermia operations and implement program improvements.

Skills and Qualifications

• Current ServSafe Food Handler’s certification, preferred.
• Ability to lift/pull up to 50 pounds and perform physical tasks such as standing, bending, or walking for extended periods.
• Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills.
• Comfortable with data collection and digital record-keeping.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment with diverse populations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in health, human services, social services, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in human services, social services, or a related field.
• Experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, substance use, or trauma.
• Familiarity with nonprofit organizations and faith-based community settings.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).

• Health insurance as directed by the personnel policy
• Paid vacation and sick leave as directed by the personnel policy
• Access to Personal Investment Plan Match