Program Coordinator

Location: ONSITE -located in the following ICE Servicing Processing Centers, in Batavia, NY., Miami, FL. Los Fresnos, TX., El Paso, TX., Florence, AZ. One position is open in each location.

Summary:

VMG is seeking an experienced and dynamic Program Coordinator who will report to and support Local Facility Chaplains and the Director, Detention Chaplaincy Programs by providing analytical and administrative assistance in programs involving the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Chaplains and support staff establish and administer Religious Services Program at each of the dedicated ICE Detention Facilities located in Batavia, NY, Miami, FL (Krome), Los Fresnos, TX (Port Isabel), Florence, AZ, and El Paso, TX.

Summary:

The Program Coordinator will support the Chaplain at an ICE ERO facility, coordinating religious and spiritual services for detainees and facility staff, ensuring compliance with DHS standards, and providing administrative and program management support. This position requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills to foster an inclusive environment, engage with religious groups, and manage resources effectively.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Program Support and Coordination:
   • Assist the Chaplain in planning, scheduling, and implementing religious services, educational classes, counseling sessions, and community events for detainees and staff.
   • Coordinate volunteer activities, including onboarding, scheduling, and training volunteers from diverse faith communities to support religious services and programs.
   • Liaise with external religious organizations to foster relationships and develop resources for detainee spiritual care and support.
   • Act as the primary point of contact for scheduling and logistical support for religious services and events within the facility.

2. Compliance and Documentation:
   • Ensure program activities are compliant with DHS and ICE policies regarding religious accommodation, detainee rights, and ethical standards.
   • Maintain accurate records of religious services, volunteer activities, and program resources.
   • Support the Chaplain in developing reports on program metrics, detainee participation, and program effectiveness.

3. Resource Management:
   • Manage facility religious resources, such as sacred texts, prayer materials, and other supplies, ensuring appropriate access and distribution.
   • Oversee inventory of religious items and manage the procurement and allocation of these resources.
   • Support budget tracking and assist the Chaplain with resource planning to meet the needs of a diverse detainee population.

4. Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity:
   • Foster an inclusive environment that respects the religious diversity of detainees and supports freedom of religious expression within facility guidelines.
   • Maintain knowledge of different faith traditions and work collaboratively to ensure services and materials accommodate the spiritual needs of detainees from various backgrounds.
   • Collaborate with facility staff to facilitate detainee access to religious programs, while respecting security and operational requirements.

5. Crisis Support and Communication:
   • Provide support to detainees and staff during crisis situations by coordinating pastoral care and resources as directed by the Chaplain.
   • Serve as a liaison between the Chaplain and other facility staff to communicate information about available religious and support services.

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in theology, religious studies, social work, public administration, or a related field. Equivalent experience in program management or chaplaincy support will be considered.
Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in program coordination, preferably within religious or social services, or correctional environments.
Experience working in multi-faith environments and coordinating diverse religious programs and services.

Skills: Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and administrative skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Knowledge of religious and cultural diversity and the ability to support inclusive environments.

Other Requirements:
Ability to pass a background investigation for security clearance.
Willingness to work within a correctional or detention facility setting.
Candidate will perform all duties at designated facility based on their location.