Community Ambassador
San Francisco
Programs – Ambassadors /
Full-Time /
On-site
About Glide
GLIDE is a nationally recognized center for social justice, dedicated to fighting systemic injustices, creating pathways out of poverty and crisis, and transforming lives. Through its integrated comprehensive services, advocacy initiatives, and inclusive community, GLIDE empowers individuals, families, and children to achieve stability and to thrive. GLIDE is on the forefront of addressing some of society’s most pressing issues, including poverty, housing and homelessness, and racial and social justice. GLIDE’s mission is to create a radically inclusive, just, and loving community mobilized to alleviate suffering and break the cycles of poverty and marginalization.
Position Summary
As a Cecil Williams Street Ambassador, you will be an integral part of a dynamic team dedicated to placemaking and community-building in the vibrant Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco. You will engage with residents, businesses, landlords, housed and unhoused neighbors, Single Room Occupancy (SRO) facilities, and other stakeholders, embodying the values of GLIDE. You will help equip stakeholders with information regarding neighborhood resources and services, assist those in need to directly access those services, and represent GLIDE’s mission, vision, and values while actively contributing to maintaining cleanliness, friendliness, and community well-being.
Cecil Williams Street Ambassadors understand how poverty, marginalization, and other forms of trauma impact community engagement and wellness. Ambassadors must be able to show excellent judgment related to community needs to advance successful “engagements, referrals, and connections” with residents, businesses, and visitors. Ambassadors facilitate meaningful access to housing services, food, primary medical care, behavioral health care, testing, medication-assisted treatment, and other support services. This position requires direct contact with diverse, high-risk individuals with complex needs, many of whom are active substance users and/or struggle with mental health. This job also involves street and neighborhood outreach where potential and/or current clients may spend time and/or live.
Regular and predictable attendance is required.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
- Engage with housed and unhoused residents, businesses, landlords, visitors, and SRO facilities in the Tenderloin district with a friendly and de-escalatory demeanor, demonstrating empathy, professionalism, kindness, and the values of GLIDE.
- Connect housed and unhoused residents, businesses, landlords, visitors, and SRO facilities to resources, services, and amenities, including shelters, food assistance programs, and community events, with a focus on fostering a sense of community and connection.
- Offer directions and guidance to individuals seeking assistance or information, demonstrating patience, understanding, and a willingness to help.
- Monitor street activity and address safety hazards, cleanliness issues, or illegal activities, appropriately coordinating with local authorities, partner non-profits, and GLIDE programs.
- Demonstrate active engagement with a commitment to creating a safer and more welcoming environment for all.
- Distribute educational materials and assistive resources related to public health, safety, and community development initiatives, with a focus on empowering individuals to make positive choices for themselves and their community.
- Collaborate with local businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies to support neighborhood improvement projects and initiatives, fostering a sense of unity and collective responsibility.
- Participate in community outreach and engagement events to promote positive interactions and build relationships with residents and stakeholders, cultivating a sense of belonging and inclusion.
- Administer first aid, including CPR and Narcan, following established protocols and procedures, with compassion and a commitment to saving lives.
- Engage in cleaning and cleanliness activities such as picking up litter, sweeping sidewalks, and removing graffiti to enhance the appearance and sanitation of public spaces, with a dedication to creating a more beautiful and inviting community.
- Maintain accurate records of observations, engagements, referrals, connections, and outreach activities, with integrity and attention to detail.
- Transport clients via walking, ride share, taxi, bus, driving, or other modes of transportation to complete connections to available services.
- Attend regular meetings and training sessions to stay informed about neighborhood developments, resources, and best practices, with a commitment to embodying the values of GLIDE.
- Participate in all designated trainings, professional development, and coaching sessions 15. Will perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse populations.
- Strong verbal skills, including the ability to deal with sensitive, emotionally charged situations with tact and diplomacy. Consistently maintains a courteous attitude when dealing with GLIDE’s community and the public.
- Compassionate, empathetic, and nonjudgmental attitude towards individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction, mental illness, or other challenges.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to respond calmly and effectively in crisis situations.
- Flexibility to work varying shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Physical stamina to stand and walk for extended periods and to navigate outdoor environments.
- Current certification in CPR and first aid training or willingness to undergo training upon hire.
- Completion of Narcan administration training or willingness to undergo training upon hire.
- Understanding and some experience of case management best practices; ability to incorporate new learning into case management work.
Certificates, Licenses and Registrations:
- Possession and maintenance of a valid California class C driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record strongly preferred.
- Must obtain a First Aid/CPR certification required within the first 60 days of employment.
Physical Requirements:
- Ambassadors dedicate a substantial portion of their time to outdoor activities. During their duties, employees may cover distances of five to seven miles per day. Essential qualifications include the capacity to bend, lift, and sustain standing and walking positions throughout the shift. Additionally, the role necessitates the ability to lift objects weighing up to 50 lbs., maneuver carts, and set up our mobile kiosk stations, tables, and/or canopies when necessary. Given the nature of these outdoor responsibilities, employees will be exposed to sunlight, dust, and varying temperatures and humidity levels.
- The job of an Ambassador is physically and mentally demanding. Problems arise constantly and staff must maintain a de-escalatory demeanor, practicing emotional intelligence, while addressing community needs. Because of these demands and the amount of standing and walking required, stamina and a high energy level are essential.
- Ability to walk far distances and stand for extended periods of time; 90-95% of work time is spent walking, standing, or otherwise on your feet.
Computer Skills:
- Has basic MS Office computer skills
- Strong ability to navigate data and applications knowledge
$25 - $30 an hour
This is a full-time (40 hours per week) Non-Exempt position. This role is covered by the collective bargaining agreement
