Ritchie Community League is currently seeking a resident of our neighbourhood for the role of Neighbourhood Connector. This is a paid, part time position with an expected contribution of 40 hours per month, and is expected to last for 6-9 months. The hours are highly variable and primary self directed.
The purpose of this role is to support the implementation of the Abundant Community Program in our neighbourhood, an Asset Based Community Development program intended to develop and promote a vibrant neighbourhood life, while reducing social isolation. The Neighbourhood Connector is responsible for identifying, mobilizing, encouraging and supporting the Block Connectors. For more information on this program, please click on the following link:
Responsibilities of the Neighbourhood Connector may include:
Various initiation and start up tasks, such as creating a block map for your neighbourhood and working with the neighbourhood support team to select and implement an appropriate database.
Attending citywide neighbourhood connector gatherings
Revising the Block Connector Introduction Letter and the Neighbourhood Conversation Guide for your Neighbourhood
Identifying and orientating new Block Connectors and accompanying them on their first neighbourhood conversations
Providing ongoing support and encouragement to the Block Connectors
Ensuring regular and accurate data entry into the selected database
Supporting the creation of new activity groups of shared interest
Reporting to the neighbourhood leadership team
As a potential Neighbourhood Connector, your have:
Existing relationships within the neighbourhood; you are viewed as a local leader and connector
Confidence and passion to seek out and enlist a Block Connector from each block in the neighbourhood
Leadership ability to direct and motivate Block Connectors to connect with their whole block
Tenacity and sufficient organizational skills to engage the entire neighbourhood
Boldness and social skills to engage any neighbour
Hospitality to convene the Block Connectors for encouragement and “team support”
Teaching ability to guide the Block Connectors to competence in initiating conversations
Interest in the information collected in conversations, to ensure collection and relevant follow-up action
Care, grace and patience to work with all levels of ability and commitment among Block Connectors
Communication skills to correspond with Block Connectors, the Support Team and the neighbourhood leadership.
To apply for this role, please email your resume to ACE@ritchie-league.com by April 20, 2018. As well, in lieu of a cover letter, we ask that you provide us with a document detailing your answers to the following questions:
What initially attracted you to the the role of Neighbourhood Connector?
What part of the Neighbourhood Connector role would be the biggest challenge for you personally? Why?
How would you describe your neighbourhood? What makes it unique? How do you believe that would affect the success of the ACE program in your neighbourhood?
Ritchie Community League would sincerely like to thank all applicants for their interest; together we can turn strangers into neighbours.