Position Overview
Catholic Charities Neighborhood Center (CCNC) is seeking a Community Collaboration VISTA Member to strengthen community partnerships, expand outreach efforts, and support the development of sustainable programs that address poverty in the Wheeling area.
This role focuses on building connections across the community—working with partner organizations, developing collaborative programs, and improving systems that increase access to services such as addiction recovery supports, food security initiatives, and community engagement opportunities.
This is not a direct service role. The VISTA Member will not provide direct assistance to individuals, but will instead focus on facilitating partnerships, enhancing programming, and building systems that support long-term impact.
Key Responsibilities
Community Outreach
Develop outreach strategies to increase awareness of CCNC services
Represent CCNC at community meetings, events, and coalition groups
Identify unmet needs within the community
Partnership Development
Build and strengthen relationships with:
Addiction recovery organizations (AA, NA, treatment providers)
Faith-based organizations and ministries (including Bible study collaborations)
Schools and youth-serving agencies (including backpack food programs)
Local nonprofits, healthcare, and social service providers
Maintain and expand a network of community partners
Program Development
Assist in developing and expanding collaborative programming, including:
Recovery support access and referral pathways
Faith-based engagement opportunities
Food security initiatives and youth-focused programs
Community-based activities within CCNC
Help design program structures, processes, and sustainability plans
Collaboration & Coordination
Support joint initiatives with partner organizations
Help organize community events such as resource fairs and outreach activities
Improve coordination and communication between agencies
Systems & Capacity Building
Create systems to track partnerships, outreach efforts, and program outcomes
Develop resource guides and referral tools
Help build sustainable processes that continue after the VISTA term
What You’ll Gain
Hands-on experience in community outreach and partnership development
Skills in program design, implementation, and evaluation
Experience working within a nonprofit and collaborative service network
Opportunities to engage in community-based problem solving
Qualifications
Strong communication and relationship-building skills
Organized, self-motivated, and able to work independently
Passion for community development and serving vulnerable populations
Interest in nonprofit work, outreach, or program development
Preferred:
Experience or interest in community outreach, partnerships, or social services
Familiarity with addiction recovery systems, faith-based work, or food programs
Important Role Information (VISTA Compliance)
This is a capacity-building position, not a direct service role
The VISTA Member will:
Not provide direct services, case management, or counseling
Not lead AA/NA or other support groups
Not replace staff or volunteers
Focus is on building programs, partnerships, and systems
Service Details
Full-time, 1-year AmeriCorps VISTA commitment
Location: Wheeling, WV
Some evening or weekend hours for outreach/events
About CCNC
Catholic Charities Neighborhood Center provides support and resources to individuals and families in need through community-based programming, outreach, and partnerships. The center is committed to building a stronger, more connected community through collaboration and service.
How to Apply
Apply through the AmeriCorps VISTA portal or submit your resume and interest to Catholic Charities Neighborhood Center.
