Details
03/29/2017
AmeriCorps VISTA Community Engagement Specialist
Shaker Heights Development Corporation
Summary Shaker Heights Development Corporation (SHDC) is Hiring an AmeriCorps VISTA Community Engagement Specialist Shaker Heights Development Corporation (SHDC) is hiring an AmeriCorps VISTA Community Engagement specialist. The Community Engagement specialist will work with entrepreneurs and stakeholders in an emerging commercial corridor in Shaker Heights that is anchored by a co-work, office and programming facility, The Dealership. Position Description The Dealership has served as a hub of entrepreneurial energy for the past 5 years and it is SHDC’s goal to grow the hub so that its spokes reach into the Chagrin-Lee corridor and potentially other commercial districts in the city over the long-term. The SHDC’s vision for the Chagrin-Lee commercial corridor is a district that is home to tech, health care, design, light industrial, makers, artistic entrepreneurs and professional service firms. The physical spaces that will house these firms will be flexible, sustainable and cost effective. There will be place-based physical improvements such as bike lanes, public art and other amenities that brand the commercial district. The VISTA Member will engage in community outreach with the surrounding neighborhoods. The outreach will identify the types of resources and trainings programs that could take place at The Dealership that would help individuals enhance skill sets for increased employment opportunities. The outreach work would also further establish The Dealership as a community asset that can be leveraged by community members and local businesses to build assets. The Community Engagement specialist will be responsible for: • Connecting with community members to obtain feedback on what resources should be available at The Dealership • Position The Dealership as a top of mind resource for Shaker residents and business owners • Identify partner organizations for collaborative programming and training opportunities at The Dealership • Identify additional resources that should be available at The Dealership to help increase employment opportunities • Assist in adding to the calendar of events and a catalog of resources Research entrepreneur readiness and financial wellness resources • Building a community of entrepreneurs and small business owners at The Dealership that comprises a range of industries with diverse backgrounds from Shaker Heights and the region. Skills and Qualifications • Bachelor's degree (or equivalent work experience) in urban studies, non-profit administration, business administration, communications or related field • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Self-motivated and solutions oriented • Ability to work independently and problem solve • Strong planning and organizational skills and the ability to think strategically in the design and execution of projects • Able to build rapport and relationships in community, business and institutional settings • Experience in community organizing, fundraising/grant writing and/or public speaking is a plus This position begins on Tuesday, June 27, 2017 and ends in July 2018. The Online Application Deadline is Monday, April 10th. Apply here: 1-Year Full Time Americorps VISTA Member Application Portal Link https://my.americorps.gov/mp/listing/viewListing.do?id=71882&fromSearch=true (copy and paste the link if the above hyperlink doesn’t work) About SHDC The mission of the Shaker Heights Development Corporation (SHDC) is to enhance the commercial revitalization efforts in order to strengthen residential neighborhoods and diversify the City’s tax base. To that end, SHDC envisions an enriched community that seamlessly blends our innovative history into a vibrant future by fostering entrepreneurial opportunities and stimulating sustainable economic growth. As a 501 (c)3 non-profit organization, SHDC is committed to enhancing the commercial districts in Shaker Heights through economic development and place-based physical development strategies. The SHDC Board of Trustees was formed in 2011 at the same time the city of Shaker Heights was in the process of updating its Economic Development Strategic Investment Plan. The Plan outlined a number of goals and objectives that required collaborations in order to achieve the milestones. SHDC was identified as one of the primary stakeholders in that process. In 2014, the volunteer Board undertook a strategic planning process. The process outlined 3 key areas for SHDC to focus on and highlighted the fact that SHDC needed its own staff to reach its potential. The organization hired its first and current Executive Director in January 2015. SHDC’s work and programs are focused on three strategic initiatives: 1. Revitalizing the Chagrin-Lee commercial district by attracting private sector investment, business recruitment and retention. 2. Enhancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem through SHDC’s operation of The Dealership, a co- work facility that provides amenities and resources to the community. 3. Supporting the Van Aken District development through advocacy, collaboration and exploring how arts and culture can be incorporated into the development program.
