Search

Partner Agency: University of Minnesota's Office of Broadband and Digital Inclusion
Location(s): 2001 Plymouth Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55411
Site Supervisor: Cory Foss

CTEP Program Description

The AmeriCorps Community Technology Empowerment Project (CTEP) bridges the “digital divide” for new Immigrants and low-income communities in Minneapolis and St. Paul. CTEP is a program of Saint Paul Neighborhood Network (SPNN).

Position Overview

The University of Minnesota Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center (UROC) is seeking a passionate and dedicated CTEP AmeriCorps member to help create a technology education curriculum and develop partnerships with community organizations to support local community education in North Minneapolis. The ideal candidate should be mindful and empathetic to the community history, disparities, and socio-economic disadvantages prevalent in the North Minneapolis community. The Community Program Specialist will identify and plan educational program initiatives and educational curriculum for the University of Minnesota Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center (UROC) based on community and partnership collaboration. 

Responsibilities:

  • Develop and implement education curriculum for a diverse range of learners, including kids to senior citizens. Areas of focus include basic computer skills and functions.

  • Build and strengthen partnerships with community organizations to support community education initiatives

  • Collaborate with UROC staff to identify areas of need and develop strategies for community engagement and outreach

  • Provide training and support to community partners and volunteers to enhance the quality and effectiveness of community education programs

  • Evaluate the impact of community education programs and make recommendations for improvement

  • Attend community meetings, events, and other relevant activities to stay connected with community partners and understand the needs of the community

  • Participate in AmeriCorps training and service projects as required

Duties:

  • Develop and implement a technology education curriculum: The Community Program Specialist will be responsible for creating a technology education curriculum that addresses the needs and interests of the local community, from kids to senior citizens. This may involve conducting research, identifying best practices, and collaborating with community organizations to develop effective learning materials.

  • Build partnerships with community organizations: The Community Program Specialist will need to establish relationships with local community organizations to support the delivery of technology education programming. This may involve conducting outreach and engagement efforts, attending community meetings, and building trust with community leaders.

  • Deliver training and education programs: The Community Program Specialist will help deliver technology education programs to community members, using a variety of instructional methods to engage learners of all ages and backgrounds. This may involve leading workshops, teaching classes, or facilitating online learning experiences.

  • Create and manage program materials: The Community Program Specialist will develop and manage program materials, including lesson plans, instructional materials, and assessments. This may involve working closely with community partners and UROC staff to ensure that program materials are culturally responsive, effective, and relevant to community needs.

  • Collect and analyze data: The Community Program Specialist will be responsible for collecting and analyzing data to evaluate the effectiveness of the technology education program. This may involve administering surveys, conducting focus groups, or analyzing program outcomes to identify areas for improvement.

  • Develop a comprehensive program plan: Create a plan that outlines the goals, objectives, and strategies for the technology education program. This will help ensure that the program is sustainable beyond the CTEP AmeriCorps member and provides a clear roadmap for future program development and growth.

  • Create a knowledge transfer plan: The CTEP AmeriCorps member should document the program development process, including best practices, lesson plans, assessments, and other relevant materials. This will help ensure that the knowledge and skills gained during the CTEP AmeriCorps member's service are transferred to UROC staff and community partners.

  • Foster community ownership: Involve community members in the program development process and create opportunities for community members to take on leadership roles. This will help ensure that the program is responsive to community needs and priorities and creates a sense of ownership and investment in the program's success.

  • Establish partnerships with other organizations: Establish partnerships with other organizations that can provide resources, expertise, and support for the technology education program. This will help ensure that the program has access to the necessary resources and expertise to sustain and grow the program beyond the CTEP AmeriCorps member's service.

  • Implement a continuous improvement plan: Collect and analyze data on the program's impact, and use this information to continually improve the program. This will help ensure that the program is responsive to community needs and priorities and remains relevant and effective over time.

Qualifications:

  • Experience working with community organizations.
  • Experience developing and implementing educational programs.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Passion for community service
  • Evidence of effective communication (written and oral) and interpersonal skills.
  • Experience working in a collaborative and cooperative team setting.
  • Technological competence related to education and IT support services.
  • Demonstrated ability to work flexibly and successfully within a changing environment
  • Experience working on issues of equity, access, and support related to markers of diversity including, but not limited to race, social class, gender, language, and sexuality.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with people from a variety of communities, backgrounds, and identities.
  • Evidence of attention to diverse identities in teaching or professional experience, and the commitment to support the University’s work in diversity, equity, and inclusion.

How to Apply

Apply online at http://my.americorps.gov/ and click on “Apply to Serve”. Be sure to search for the “Community Technology Empowerment Project” or “CTEP” when asked to indicate what program you would like to send your application to. Contact: ctepmn@spnn.org, 651.298.8919 for more information about CTEP Member requirements.

CTEP AmeriCorps values an equitable work environment and strongly encourages Black, Indigenous and People of Color, speakers of many languages, disabled individuals, LGBTQIA+ identified, and people from other underrepresented communities to apply.

Reasonable accommodations will be made upon request.