The position of the Volunteer Ally is to provide intentional friendship to community members who have completed the Getting Ahead Class.  The Volunteer Ally listens and provides encouragement, without judgment, to Circle Leaders working to make positive changes in their life. The Volunteer Ally provides new perspectives, consistency, accountability, and a focus on future goals during their 18-month match with the Circle Leader, while upholding Peace Connections vision of a thriving community sustained by peace and social justice.

TimeCommitment:5 to 10 hours per month for 18 Months

Primary Location: First United Methodist Church, 801N.MainStreet,Newton,KS

Key Responsibilities:

·        Consistently show up and participate in Match meeting (at least once a month)

·        Attend at least one Circle of Hope meeting a month (in addition to Match)

·        Be a positive role model

·        Be non-judgmental

·        Listen

·        Assist Circle Leader in staying goal-oriented

·        Set and maintain appropriate boundaries

·        Stay in communication with Circle Leader and fellow Allies

·        Log your volunteer hours

Qualifications:

·        Non-judgmental

·        Good boundaries

·        Motivated, positive attitude

·        Stable (not in crisis)

·        Open minded & empathetic

·        Willingness to learn

·        Complete Bridges Out of Poverty Training

Responsible to: Volunteer Manager / Program Coordinator

Impact: The Volunteer Ally is a positive, consistent support in the lives of families working to get out of financial poverty.  The Volunteer Ally creates a new relationship for the family, forming an intentional and encouraging friendship during their journey towards stability. As a Volunteer Ally, you will assist families as they grow financially and personally, genuinely engaging with community and investing in long-term outcomes for us all.