Director of Programming, Newcomer Housing Alliance

Inspired by the call of the Gospel and the mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, the SSJ Newcomer Housing Alliance responds to the critical plight of refugees and immigrants who are seeking safety and shelter in the Philadelphia area. Our mission is to, offer refugees and immigrants a safe transitional housing opportunity. Rooted in supportive, loving and compassionate care for the ‘dear neighbor’, we provide a residential environment with opportunities to have basic human needs met in a restorative atmosphere.

TITLE: Director of Programming, SSJ Newcomers Housing Alliance

REPORTS TO: Sponsorship Coordinator

FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Full time, Exempt

SUMMARY: The Director of Programming works closely and collaborates with the Director of Operations to ensure that all programs under the SSJ Newcomer Housing Alliance, located in the Philadelphia area, operate efficiently, ethically, and in line with all required and recommended standards of operation. The NHA Director of Programming works closely with the Director of Operations to assure that all aspects of a response plan for the resettlement of immigrant/refugees are in place in a timely manner and that the entire SSJ NHA operates effectively, efficiently, ethically and in line with all required and established standards. The Director of Programming oversees direct service staff such as House Managers and Case Managers.

IN COLLABORATION WITH THE DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMING…

• Creates a comprehensive Resettlement Manual and resident application process and manages and executes resettlement program development and implementation.
• In collaboration with the Director of Programming identify and evaluate the immediate, basic needs of refugees and initiate response to those needs.
• Train, oversee, and provide ongoing support and resources for volunteers working with refugees and immigrants
• Convene and facilitate regular staff and volunteer meetings
• Collaborate with the Director of Programming and Executive Administrator for Sponsorship on the establishment of an Advisory Board and long-range strategic plan.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Commit to the Mission/Vision of the Sisters of Saint Joseph
• Manage and execute program development and implementation of
  1. Transitional Residences: a 13 bedroom Men’s Home and a future 12-15 unit home for women and women with children.
  2. Family Support Services: Program that surrounds and supports newcomer families by providing holistic services
• Holds primary responsibility in the assessment of all referrals and collaborates with the Director of Operations to review all approved referrals.
• Supervises direct service staff to ensure all residents and families are receiving necessary social services.
• Maintains frequent proactive communication with the Office of Sponsorship on the needs, goals and outcomes of the NHA.
• Evaluate the need for any additional services needed on an ongoing basis; make recommendations to support those needs.
• Work autonomously to ensure that Transitional Residences operate at optimal capacity and in compliance with all program policies.
• Attend conferences and network with other residential programs for newcomers
• Meet regularly with Director of Operations and the full NHA team to report on the happenings of each program and ensure effective and ethical services are being provided
• Train, oversee, and provide ongoing support and resources for volunteers working with refugees and immigrants
• Facilitate frequent meetings with and oversee staff and volunteers in relation to employee issues/guidance, attendance, performance, etc.
• In collaboration with the Director of Operations address and resolve any in-house issues arising among staff, volunteers, and/or residents.
• In coordination with direct service staff, formulate exit strategy for persons moving out of the transitional residences or graduating from the Family Support Services.
• Advocate on behalf of families and individuals with landlords, schools, and government agencies as needed.
• Stay current with guidelines, regulations, and changes in relation to immigration policies.
• Network with others in this field to identify and access educational opportunities for volunteers and staff
• Collaborate with the Director of Operations in budgeting and grant management.
• Research, write and submit grant proposals
• Facilitate connections and expand resources between newcomers and existing communities.
• Perform other tasks as needed to ensure the success of the SSJ Newcomer Housing Alliance and alignment with the mission of the SSJs.
• Collaborate with the team on the creation of a monthly newsletter and regular communication with all stakeholders

EXPERIENCE:

• 3+ years’ hands on experience with / knowledge of refugee and asylum-seekers
• Strong understanding of immigration-related challenges and available community resources.
• First-hand experience interacting with appropriate agencies in support of refugee and immigrant populations
• In depth experience working and collaborating with professionals in the field of social work/case management, etc.
• Proven track record of successfully managing operations on a day-to-day basis

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s Degree in social work or related area required; Master’s Degree preferred.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong organizational and documentation skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• High level of cultural humility and cross-cultural sensitivity
• Creative problem-solving and adaptability in working with families with complex needs
• Leadership and management skills; including delegation abilities
• Creative thinker
• Preferred: Bilingual