About the Organisation: Edmund Rice Community Services Ltd (ERCS) is a national not-for-profit organisation that exists to build communities where people thrive and belong. We do this by addressing social isolation, unjust structures, marginalisation, access to appropriate education and learning opportunities. We support a number of focused communities, that have developed specific responses to solve or improve full engagement in society for people.
About the Opportunity: The Program Assistant is responsible for coordinating, delivering, and evaluating Edmund Rice Community Services (ERCS) programs and services in South Australia. This role encompasses the management of week-long residential camps, weekend camps, follow-up activity days, and key volunteer recruitment, training, and support initiatives. Working under the direction of the Team Leader, the Program Assistant ensures effective planning, resourcing, research, and budgeting for all ERCS-SA services. Additionally, the role involves contributing to the organisation's fundraising efforts. The position is 0.4FTE.
ERCS serves children, young people, and families facing significant and complex disadvantages. The Program Assistant is expected to operate within the organisation's rigorous safeguarding, WHS, and risk management frameworks, demonstrating a strong commitment to continuous learning, collaboration, best practices, and child safety. The role requires the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
As a values-driven organisation, ERCS relies on the Program Assistant to play a key role in advancing our mission to affirm kids, empower young people, and build community. All team members must embody and uphold the values of Dignity, Integrity, Liberation, and Justice in their work.
Key Accountabilities and Responsibilities: Program Coordination and Delivery Oversee the coordination, delivery, and evaluation of all ERCS-SA programs, including but not limited to weeklong residential camps, weekend camps, and activity days.Conduct referral and intake assessments for program participants.Maintain open communication with referring agencies, volunteers, families, and other key stakeholders throughout the planning and execution of programs.Assign volunteers with the appropriate skills to ensure successful program delivery.Coordinate logistics including camp sites, venues, catering, resources, equipment, and transportation.Provide support to volunteers in designing and implementing suitable camp programs.Conduct risk assessments and ensure all compliance and incident management plans are in place.Attend programs and respond to issues as they arise, ensuring safeguarding, incident, and other reporting requirements are met.Evaluate and review programs regularly, providing constructive feedback to volunteers.Volunteer Management Oversee the recruitment, assessment, induction, training, and retention of volunteers.Plan and deliver training for new leaders and ongoing training events for existing volunteers, including orientation day training, annual retreats, and recognition events like the Christmas party and National Volunteer Week.Process applications for prospective volunteers, including conducting Working with Children Checks (WWCC) and reference checks to assess volunteer suitability.Maintain accurate records of volunteer information in the database, including personal details and any medical or support needs.Ensure volunteers understand their rights, responsibilities, and available grievance avenues.Monitor social media channels to respond to volunteer requests and inquiries, providing general support and guidance as needed.Financial and Administrative Duties Ensure that all program and volunteer activities operate within budget constraints.Assist and support the ERCS-SA Team Leader in identifying and securing additional funding for the organisation as required.Manage financial tasks, including chasing debtors, raising invoices, and reconciling credit card transactions.Maintain and develop the organisation's social media presence to engage the community and promote ERCS-SA initiativesFundraising and Donor Engagement Actively contribute to fundraising activities and initiatives, such as organising and planning events and campaigns.Support the administration of web-based donation programs and encourage volunteer involvement in fundraising activities.Assist in maintaining the donor database and developing communications related to fundraising efforts.Mission & Identity Demonstrate and encourage a connection to the ERCS Values, Vision & Mission and use this as a core basis for all work practicesPromote an understanding of the story, vision, and values of Blessed Edmund Rice Foster and develop an organisational culture internally and within ERCS programs which reaches out to people facing adversity, respects human dignity and provides equality of opportunity, reflecting cultural and ethnic diversitySafeguarding of Children and Vulnerable Adults Act in strict accordance with the organisation's Safeguarding policies, code of conduct, and procedures at all times.Commit to fostering a safe environment for all, adhering to a zero-tolerance approach to any form of abuse, and taking immediate action on any safeguarding concerns.Ensure compliance with all legislative and regulatory requirements, including conducting screenings for suitability to work with children, youth, and vulnerable individuals.Demonstrate an understanding of children's developmental needs and culturally safe practices when working with children.Follow established procedures for identifying and reporting all forms of abuse, including those involving children, young people, and adults.Participate in ongoing Safeguarding training and supervision to maintain high standards of protection and care.Support children, young people, and adults in expressing their own culture within the programs.About You: This position would suit someone who is wanting to build on their experience within the community sector. You will be highly involved in community work and are wanting to challenge yourself to learn new skills and serve a new purpose within the sector.
You will also have: Minimum bachelor's degree or tertiary qualification related to Community development, Social welfare, Counselling, Outdoor Education, or other relevant area Minimum 2 years' experience working in a similar role including planning, delivery and evaluating overnight/residential recreational programs Experience coordinating a volunteer-based program including recruitment, retention, training, and support Experience working with children, young people and families experiencing significant and complex disadvantage Experience in creating and publishing social media content including but not limited to, websites, Instagram, Facebook and Mailchimp. Working with Children Check clearance and demonstrated understanding of responsibilities of a mandatory reporter. Current unrestricted Driver's licenceApply First Aid certificate or willingness to obtain Administration of Medication Certificate or willingness to obtainHow to Apply: All applications must include a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role and your curriculum vitae.
For more information on this opportunity please contact our ERCS State Lead SA, Daniel Gobbett on ******** or email [email protected] ERCS is a child safe organisation, committed to the protection of children and adults-at-risk. ERCS is committed to a safe culture for all and has zero tolerance of any abuse, discrimination including racism and a zero tolerance of inaction in regard to concerns of this nature. Applications Close: COB Thursday 26th September 2024 Only successful applicants will be contacted.
