Program Support Specialist

About the Role

The Program Support Specialist is a vital member of the Hope Center team, providing hands‑on assistance across multiple programs to ensure smooth daily operations and high‑quality, compassionate service. This role supports the Day Center, Shower Program, Meal Program, Clothing Shop, and Reception, helping advance our mission of offering dignity, comfort, and hope to individuals and families in our community.

This position involves frequent direct client interaction in a fast‑paced, community‑focused environment and requires adaptability, empathy, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to trauma‑informed care.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with daily operations across the Day Center, Shower Program, Meal Program, Clothing Shop, and Reception as needed.
• Provide direct support to clients receiving services, ensuring a welcoming, respectful, and trauma‑informed environment.
• Build authentic, supportive relationships with clients while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
• Respond effectively to crises using de‑escalation techniques and harm reduction principles.
• Coordinate, pick up, and transport community donations, including food, clothing, and essential items from partner organizations.
• Assist with loading, unloading, and organization of donations and supplies, including lifting and carrying items up to 50 lbs.
• Greet and assist guests, answer questions, and provide accurate information about Hope Center programs and services.
• Maintain accurate documentation, records, and data entry related to program activity and client services.
• Support volunteer crews and assist with volunteer training and daily coordination as needed.
• Collaborate with staff and volunteers to ensure programs operate efficiently, safely, and consistently.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support overall program success.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum associate’s degree in Human Services, AODA, Criminal Justice, or a Social Work related field.
• Minimum of two years of experience in case management, advocacy, or direct service with vulnerable populations.
• Strong understanding of trauma‑informed care, harm reduction, and crisis de‑escalation.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced environment and adapt to changing priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain professional boundaries while building authentic, trusting relationships.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, or holidays if needed.
• Excellent organizational, time‑management, and documentation skills.
• Ability to safely lift and carry up to 25 lbs.
• Ability to ambulate up and down stairs.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• Ability to pass required criminal background checks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a nonprofit, residential, or emergency shelter setting strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with OSHA guidelines, cleaning standards, and facility safety practices.
• Basic computer skills for data entry, inventory tracking, and records management.
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.
• First aid certification is recommended but can be obtained after hire.

Compensation

Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Candidates for all paid and volunteer positions at The Hope Center must have been separated from Hope Center services for at least one year. All candidates for paid and volunteer positions at The Hope Center must be willing to have a background check conducted.

This position is open to all qualified internal and external candidates. Internal candidates will have ideally reached six months of continuous employment at the time of application.

Hope Center is a mission focused agency. As such, we will continue to search for compassionate candidates to fill positions until all vacancies are filled with individuals who demonstrate a strong level of understanding and commitment to the Hope Center’s vision and mission. This part-time position offers accrued paid time off, supported training opportunities (internal/external), free meals during shifts, and a supportive team environment.

The Program Support Specialist plays a key role in ensuring Hope Center programs run smoothly and consistently. From supporting daily services to coordinating community resources, this role directly impacts the safety, dignity, and stability of individuals and families served.