ABOUT OUR ORGANISATION

North & West Melbourne Neighbourhood Centre is a non-profit community organisation dedicated to fostering a sense of community and promoting well-being in the North & West Melbourne area. Our programs and activities respond to the needs of the North & West Melbourne community, providing an accessible and inclusive agenda which fosters belonging and community spirit, reduces social isolation and ultimately improves the wellbeing of the community’s members.

ABOUT THE ROLE

This unique role is responsible for the development and delivery of a new program “Men Out of the Margins” which works with marginalised men from the North Melbourne area to address their barriers to education, employment, and engagement with society. The program includes education, self-expression, social programs, and volunteering opportunities.

Through creating volunteering opportunities for participants of the Men Out of the Margins” program, the successful candidate will also renew and expand the NWMNC’s broader volunteer program.

The position is ideal for a motivated individual who is passionate about community development, and empowering marginalised groups.

Key responsibilities

Program Delivery and Coordination

• Engage participants and stakeholders in a co-design process to develop the 18-month Men Out of the Margins program, targeting 100 local men

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Men Out of the Margins program, ensuring smooth delivery of all activities, including life skills workshops, job preparation, and social connection events.

• Work closely with referral partners (VincentCare, Salvation Army and others) to ensure that participants are ready for program participation and receive appropriate support.

• Engage facilitators to teach life skills including personal development, budgeting, digital literacy, and renters’ rights.

• Engage facilitators to teach professional development including job preparation, resume writing, interview techniques, and job search skills.

• Plan and coordinate social activities that foster a sense of community, both within the cohort and with the broader North & West Melbourne community.

Participant Support

• Provide individualised support to each participant, encouraging their active engagement and facilitating their progress through the program.

• Foster a positive, supportive environment where men feel empowered to share their experiences and rebuild their confidence.

Monitoring and Reporting

• Track participant progress using Federal Government’s Data Exchange system as well as NWMNC’s outcomes mapping framework, gathering regular feedback to improve program effectiveness.

• Conduct regular check-ins with participants and prepare reports on program outcomes for internal and external stakeholders.

Volunteer Management

• Lead the recruitment, induction and training processes for volunteers across various programs, including Men Out of the Margins.

• Serve as the primary contact for volunteers, providing ongoing support and addressing any concerns.

• Liaise with staff members to ensure volunteer schedules are co-ordinated to meet program needs.

• Develop recognition programs to value volunteers and maintain regular communication.

• Implement strategies for improving retention, including skills development opportunities.

• Maintain accurate records of all volunteers using management software.

Key Selection Criteria

Experience and Skills

Essential

• Proven experience in program management, community development, or a related field, preferably working with vulnerable or marginalised communities.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and motivate both program participants and volunteers.

• Strong organisational and multitasking skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Knowledge of co-design principles and ability to facilitate engagement practices with vulnerable men

• Experience in program reporting and data management

Desirable

• Knowledge of issues faced by long-term unemployed men, including homelessness, mental health challenges, and re-entry into society after incarceration

• Experience working with marginalised men

• Demonstrated experience in volunteer management, including recruitment, training, and support of volunteers.

Personal Attributes

• A genuine passion for social inclusion and empowering marginalised groups.

• High levels of empathy, patience, and cultural sensitivity when working with participants facing significant life challenges.

• A proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Qualifications

• Relevant tertiary qualifications in community development, social work, human services, or a related discipline.

• Experience working in the not-for-profit or community sector is highly regarded

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on vulnerable men's lives and help them re-engage with society.

• Work in a supportive, collaborative environment with dedicated community-focused teams.

• Gain hands-on experience in both project management and volunteer coordination.

• Access to ongoing professional development and training opportunities.

next steps

Please click Apply Now to submit your application.

DIVERSE EMPLOYMENT

NWMNC encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including those with lived experience of marginalisation.