Greater Lansing Food Bank (GLFB) is seeking a full-time employee to step into the
role of New American Engagement
Coordinator. Working with the Garden Project program, the position will focus on New US American* populations that we
serve and work with. The engagement coordinator will work as a point person at ten refugee and immigrant specific gardens,
focusing on supporting culturally diverse gardeners/farmers with translation, cultural adaptability, garden resources, and
identifying community leaders to help the shift towards more a more sustainable garden network. The position will shift
focus seasonally, as appropriate and needed, while maintaining some core functions throughout the year.
The ideal candidate must be a hands-on team player with a positive attitude who is diligent, patient, and flexible. Must thrive
in a highly collaborative and fast-paced environment. Candidate should have excellent communication and interpersonal
skills with the willingness to take initiative and be innovative. An aptitude to learn new duties and new communication
techniques is a must. A passion for our mission of feeding people who are in need is important for a fulfilling work life. New
American Engagement Coordinator adheres to all policies and procedures set forth by Feeding America, AIB and Greater
Lansing Food Bank.
This is a full-time position of 40 hours per week, generally during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, with
occasional early morning, evening or weekend hours for special events, garden engagements, and other organizational
needs.
* “New US American” is an all-encompassing term that includes immigrants, refugees and their children. It recognizes
that newcomer families can both treasure their cultural backgrounds, while also learning from and contributing to their
new US communities. It serves to recognize the sacrifice and contribution of first and second-generation immigrants to
the United States, and the heritage from which they come.
About Greater Lansing Food Bank
Founded in 1981, Greater Lansing Food Bank (GLFB) is a highly visible non-profit organization that provides food assistance
to individuals and families in need in Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, Shiawassee, Clare, Isabella and Gratiot counties. Food is
distributed through an extensive network of food pantries, shelters, community kitchens and mobile distributions
throughout the seven-county service area. GLFB annually serves hundreds of thousands of people.
Position Details
Title: New American Engagement Coordinator
Date: July 2021
Exempt Status: Non-exempt
Reports to: Garden Project Manager
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
▪ Lead and act as point person to ten refugee/immigrant specific community gardens, ranging from a half-an-acre to
nine acres in size
o Involve community garden participants in all aspects of the program and delegate tasks as needed
o Will include filling water tanks, mowing, leading volunteer groups and gardener meetings, managing gardener
registration/mapping/plotting/assigning process, and cultivating and training on-site garden leaders
▪ Lead outreach activities that promote Garden Project in the community, attending meetings, networking with, and
connecting to refugee/immigrant communities and leaders
▪ Network with and work collaboratively with area organizations supporting refugees/immigrants
▪ Identify partners to translate (both language and culturally) documents for program participants
▪ Organize and act as a service leader liaison for volunteer/group workdays
▪ Assist with evaluation of effectiveness of services, including organizational work in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
▪ Other duties, as assigned, to support the Garden Project & Greater Lansing Food Bank in relation to New American
engagement
Other Duties
Please note this job description does not cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities
required for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
QUALIFICATIONS
▪ Knowledge, interest and demonstrated experience in sustainable approaches to gardening/food growing
▪ Interest in community development, building a healthier food system, and the evolving nomenclature and action to
build equity and justice
▪ Ability to lift up to 40-50 pounds, bend, squat, kneel or stand for longer periods of time, ability to work outside in
various climatic conditions
▪ Comfortable speaking and presenting in front of groups, representing Garden Project’s focus on New American
populations
▪ Demonstrated ability and interest in interacting with all types of people, including all ages, socio-economic levels,
gender identities, abilities, and cultural backgrounds, including historically under-served, minority and refugee
populations
o Preference for a refugee/former refugee or similar experienced individual
o Excellent communication skills in English; ability to speak an additional language an asset.
Preference for a
Swahili, Nepali, Burmese or French speaker
▪ Ability to multitask and work both with a team and independently with adequate guidance
▪ Excellent problem-solving and conflict resolution skills. Ability to maintain constructive working relationships with
gardeners, volunteers and staff
▪ Computer proficiency, specifically with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word/Excel/Outlook and Google drive
▪ Valid driver’s license, ability to get chauffeur’s license (reimbursable), and reliable transportation
▪ Organized, efficient and flexible with time and schedule. Evening obligations are expected, especially during the
growing season, and occasional weekends
Compensation and Benefits:
GLFB offers a competitive compensation package, including medical/dental/vision insurance, 401k, vacation leave, sick
leave, and paid holidays.
To apply
Please send cover letter, resume and salary requirements to Rebecca Kline, HR Manager at
[log in to unmask] . For
additional information, please visit
www.glfoodbank.org. Position remains open until filled. EOE. No phone calls please.
