CA Wildfire Response Cash Program Coordinator, Los Angeles, United States

About CORE Response

CORE (Community Organized Relief Effort) is dedicated to providing emergency relief in times of crisis. Our Fire Response team is committed to supporting individuals and families affected by wildfires in Southern California. Through our CVA (Cash & Voucher Assistance) Program, we aim to provide immediate financial assistance to those in need, helping them recover and rebuild.

Position Summary

We are seeking a compassionate, detail-oriented, and highly organized Program Coordinator to support the Wildfire Response Cash Program. In this key role, the Program Coordinator will collaborate closely with the Cash & Voucher Assistance (CVA) Program Manager to oversee the implementation and optimization of systems and processes for beneficiary verification and fund distribution during Phase 3 of the wildfire recovery response. The Program Coordinator will serve as a primary point of contact for program participants, ensuring timely follow-up, verification, and troubleshooting to resolve issues in the redemption process.

This position demands a strong problem-solver with high emotional intelligence and the ability to work efficiently under pressure. The Program Coordinator will work alongside the CVA Program Manager and volunteers to ensure successful delivery of program services. A strong commitment to CORE's mission of supporting vulnerable communities is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Co-lead the coordination of Phase 3 of the Wildfire Response Cash Program, ensuring smooth execution of verification and fund disbursement processes in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with volunteers to provide comprehensive support to beneficiaries, addressing inquiries, completing applications, resolving issues, and ensuring they fully understand the process for cash assistance.
• Oversee the collection of required documentation from beneficiaries, guiding them through the verification and distribution process.
• Manage the tracking of interactions, issues, and resolutions using CORE's tracking system, ensuring accuracy and transparency.
• Address complex issues related to payment distribution, application errors, or missing information, escalating as necessary to the CVA Program Manager.
• Ensure the confidentiality and security of all beneficiaries for personal and financial information, adhering to program protocols.
• Provide regular updates and reports on the program's status, ensuring effective communication with stakeholders, including beneficiaries and internal teams.
• Provide support in training and guidance to volunteers, ensuring they are equipped to address beneficiary inquiries and application needs.
• Foster a supportive and empathetic approach to all interactions with disaster-affected individuals, maintaining the program's human-centered service delivery focus.

Qualifications & Skills

• Previous experience in program management, project management, or a similar role, ideally within non-profit, social services, or emergency response settings.
• Strong knowledge of program management, including system design, workflow management, and the ability to ensure timely and accurate execution of tasks.
• Exceptional communication skills, capable of conveying complex information clearly and empathetically in both written and verbal formats.
• High emotional intelligence and patience, with the ability to navigate sensitive and difficult conversations with individuals in crisis situations.
• Proven ability to multitask, problem-solve, and manage teams in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
• Proficiency with technology, including customer service software, email, phone systems, and data tracking tools.
• Bilingual proficiency (Spanish, Armenian, or other languages spoken in affected communities) is a plus.
• Experience with disaster response programs, cash assistance, or financial assistance initiatives is highly preferred.
• Strong collaborative skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders to achieve program objectives and deliver quality service to beneficiaries.

Core Competencies

• Empathy & Compassion: Demonstrates deep understanding and care for those experiencing hardship.
• Adaptability: Able to respond to changing needs and unexpected challenges.
• Attention to Detail: Ensures accuracy in documentation and communications.
• Team Collaboration: Works effectively with the Cash & Voucher Assistance Program Manager and other CORE team members to improve service delivery.
• Problem-Solving: Quickly assesses issues and provides appropriate solutions or guidance.

Travel is required. Must be able to commute to CORE's Resource Center in Altadena at least three times per week and as needed to support program operations.