Food & Community Engagement Program Assistant

Food & Community Engagement Program Assistant

MERRIMACK VALLEY YMCA - 3.9

Lawrence, MA Job Details Part-time $19 an hour 1 day ago Qualifications Community partnership development Guest relations Outdoor work Community nutrition program support Greeting customers Moving Donor relationship building Shelf stocking Food service inventory management Driver's License Food banks Truck loading and unloading Community relationship building Passenger van operation Communication skills Delivery coordination Entry level Full Job Description Food & Community Engagement Program Assistant Part-Time (20 hours/week) Under the supervision of the Director of Food & Community Engagement, the Food & Community Engagement Program Assistant plays a vital role in supporting the coordination and delivery of food access initiatives across the Merrimack Valley YMCA. This position provides essential logistical support to the on-site food pantry located at the Lawrence YMCA and a mobile food pantry that serves the communities of Lawrence, Methuen, Andover and North Andover. The mobile pantry distributes fresh and nutritious food at various locations throughout the region, helping to address food insecurity in Merrimack Valley. The ideal candidate is dependable, adaptable, and can work in a fast-paced, physically active environment while engaging respectfully with food recipients. Key Responsibilities Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following: Safely operate program vehicles, including a food truck and 12-passenger vans (no special license required), for food donation pickups and mobile pantry distribution events throughout the Merrimack Valley Assist with the loading and unloading of donated food items, including repeated lifting of boxes often weighing 50 pounds or more Support the Director of Food and Community Engagement in the planning and execution of multiple weekly pantry distributions Help maintain and strengthen relationships with community partners, donors, and funders while consistently demonstrating YMCA core values: caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility Provide welcoming, respectful, and compassionate service to pantry guests, ensuring a positive and dignified experience for all participants Organize, stock, and maintain both perishable and non-perishable food inventory in pantry settings, including working in environments with varying temperatures (e.g., refrigeration and outdoor conditions) Contribute to a collaborative, team-oriented environment while remaining flexible to changing program needs and schedules Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including frequent lifting and moving of heavy items Valid driver's license and a safe driving record Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a commitment to community service Ability to work both independently and as part of a team Flexibility and reliability in a fast-paced, dynamic environment Comfort working with individuals from diverse backgrounds