Mt. Baker Community Coalition Co-Coordinator

December 16, 2024November 13, 2024 by Kristin Danielson

Grant Management & Community Capacity Building Focus

Full-Time (.8 to 1 FTE) Position Description

JOB SUMMARY: This indirect service position focuses on administration and development of the Mt Baker Community Coalition (MBCC), a community-based youth substance use prevention and mental wellbeing promotion effort centered in community organizing to improve wellbeing, safety, and connection in East Whatcom County. Requires a candidate equally passionate about strengthening community through collaboration AND experienced with managing and writing government grants. Activities are varied and guided by coalition members.

STATUS: Permanent, Non-Exempt, Grant Funded Position. Either Part-Time or Full Time (up to 40 hrs/week) Options
START DATE: Anticipated Start Date: Late January/Early February 2025
REPORTS TO: Executive Director
PRIORITY DEADLINE: December 30 at 12pm, but open until filled
TO APPLY: Send cover letter, resume and three (3) professional references to info@WFCN.org

Ideal candidate brings: A candidate with knowledge and connections in the Mt. Baker School District service area are critical, or a commitment to spend time in community to develop those relationships is desired. Skill as a visionary thinker, who is detail-oriented, has strong organization & coordination skills and demonstrated success supporting diverse populations to achieve goals. Strong communication and facilitation skills to motivate through story, presentation and reporting work and outcomes. Experience in community organizing, public health, health prevention and experience coordinating complex programs. A sense of positivity and hopefulness.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Convene and Co-facilitate with members monthly and workgroups as needed, for local community coalition.
Recruit/maintain sector representation as required by grants;
Grant management: budget development and monitoring, expense planning, financial and program reporting to funders and WFCN.
Monitoring coalition and contractor activity to ensure grant compliance with funded grant and program outcomes;
Oversee coalition’s development and implementation of strategic action plans and needs assessments to meet grant requirements; Ensure facilitation of strategic planning;
Record keep, monitor and report coalition financials in collaboration with director, bookkeeper and external grant managers;
Enter reporting data into required data systems within contractual timeframes (training provided);
Work cooperatively with staff, community and other diverse groups to develop and implement effective and evidence- based strategies which discourage use/misuse of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs;
Conduct surveys to evaluate community needs, contract compliance and strategy effectiveness;
Coordinate comprehensive training for coalition members to build capacity for community-based, data-driven substance use coalition work;
Provide community education, technical assistance and support to agency staff, volunteers, prevention contractors, service providers and community groups on topics such as the CPWI and prevention science (e.g., risk and protective factors, the Strategic Prevention Framework, relevant evidence-based strategies)
Assess, manage and evaluate programs’ policies and procedures to ensure program compliance with federal, state, and local guidelines;
Interpret complex and detailed federal and state regulations to ensure program compliance.
Proficient computer skills including, but not limited to Word and Excel.
Support co-workers’ efforts to develop sustainable youth programming and coalition outreach;
Building community capacity & partnerships that model collaborative solutions to community concerns
Youth Engagement, including youth coalition/club recruitment, coordination and advising, event chaperoning and driving as well as prevention education
Community Outreach for Engagement, including written and graphic communication for media and social media and face-to-face representation at community events, in community building efforts and other community centered opportunities

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possession of a valid driver’s license is required prior to employment.
Access to guaranteed, reliable transportation is required.
Pass Washington State Patrol Background check and any further established background requirements.
Ability and willingness to obtain a Certified Prevention Professional (CPP) credential within 18 months of appointment paid by grant funding and completed within work hours as part of approved training plan

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Two years of relevant experience in grant management, budgeting and strategic planning desired;
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in education + 2-years’ experience OR
- Associates degree + 5-years’ experience OR
- High school degree and substantial experience with community organizing especially in East Whatcom County and with families and youth.
- Education and experience in Public Health, Human Services, Behavioral Sciences, or closely related fields valued;
Demonstrated ability to create and sustain effective relationships with community partners, foster and share leadership among individuals in the community and build bridges among diverse community members and organizations.
Working knowledge of substance abuse prevention and prevention science, community development and mobilization, cultural competence principles, and community organizing approaches desired;

COMPENSATION: Starting Range: $27 to $30 hourly. Pro-rated medical and dental health benefits, vacation, sick leave, and retirement option in the form of a SIMPLE IRA. 100% benefits paid over 31 hours per week.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Three days a week work must be in East Whatcom County/Mt. Baker Schools area. MBCC’s official workspace is at Mt Baker Senior High School with satellite spaces available in Kendall at East Whatcom Regional Resource Center and in Bellingham at Whatcom Family & Community Network (WFCN). Travel is required to engage face-to-face with coalition and community members, businesses and organizations to promote coalition and its efforts. Travel is required to attend community meetings & events, provide training & technical assistance and participate in coalition activities. Statewide travel is occasional. Typically, no more than once a week, evening/weekend/irregular hours may be required to attend in person meetings and prevention activities. Access to guaranteed, reliable transportation is required and some travel compensation is provided. Occasional physical effort may be required to lift items weighing up to 50 pounds.

As an employer, WFCN promotes individual and community wellbeing practice and a trauma informed culture of compassion for self and others. We encourage staff to model self-compassion and teach others as you develop. WFCN is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

To Apply:
Send cover letter, resume and three (3) professional references to info@wfcn.org

Connected! Young Influencers: Jazmin Carpenter, Wil Henkel, Kiera Hillaire, and Oliver Trulock

December 22, 2021December 21, 2021 by Kristin Danielson

Connected! Young Influencers:
Jazmin Carpenter, Wil Henkel, Kiera Hillaire, and Oliver Trulock

2021 Community Building Award Recipient

Our final recipients of the evening are all young adults, whose efforts across two years inspired and taught a nation, as well as our organization about the importance of youth engagement in peer focused mental well-being efforts.

Each of these individuals has their own journey of pain and triumph that united them as champions for youth mental wellbeing.

Kiera’s passion focused on bullying and cyberbullying. Her work is used with the Lummi Behavioral Health Programs, and she has presented a seminar on the issue.

As high schoolers, Oliver and Wil initiated the peer centered support (PCS) and peer centered outreach (PCO) model, which in 2021 has been adopted across all Bellingham high schools; and activated change in the school community.

Jazmin, knowing the impact of losing a loved one to death by suicide, is one of the longest-standing volunteers with the MAD HOPE youth suicide and mental wellbeing program.

Bringing their stories and strengths, they united in the Connected! Project, a nation-wide effort hosted by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, the nation’s premier mental health and substance use recovery association. The larger aim was to explore and learn how youth engagement can positively make change to address and destigmatize mental health. As “young influencers” they represented diverse efforts happening in Whatcom County and emerged new strategies to promote youth engagement in peer mental well-being.

The team developed the local trusted adult campaign, which included a youth art contest, trusted adult e-card campaign, youth-led trusted adult workshops, social media outreach and a bus ad campaign to promote the role of trusted adults in the lives of youth.

The team strategized about the importance of creative outlets such as art, music, and poetry for youth to metabolize their pressure, stress and big emotions.

The concept of a zine was developed and brought to fruition by other youth recruited to engage in the broader effort. While Covid-19 thwarted big plans—concerts, gaming tournaments, etc., but instead “let’s chalk about it” art efforts and outreach through neighborhood “little libraries” emerged.

As Covid forced an online format shift, the young influencers improved the MAD HOPE youth suicide prevention curriculum. This focused on increasing inclusion of cultures for populations with higher health disparity regarding suicidal thinking and action.

The overall experience was rare, but if expanded and sustained, the model to grow youth engagement, increase youth leadership and save lives is boundless.

To watch the 24th Annual Ken Gass Community Building Awards in which Oliver, Kiera, Jazmin and Wil are recognized, click here.

Lisa McOmber

December 22, 2021December 21, 2021 by Kristin Danielson

Lisa McOmber

2021 Community Building Award Recipient

Having moved to eastern Whatcom County 3 years ago, when Lisa heard of opportunities to build community through connection and provide sustainable healthy change, she was all in.

The Foothills Community Alliance (FCA) formerly known as the Mount Baker Foundation Partnership, was seeking strong, new leadership. She filled the shoes passionately and brought the group together with clear direction and renewed energy. Her involvement solidified the work, brought several community-building champions to the table, and resulted in the FCA becoming ready to serve needs of local community. She has remained consistent, noticed assets and gaps in other community efforts and stepped in to recruit, lead and facilitate for everyone’s good. She has been instrumental in laying foundation for positive community change for generations.

Lisa also leaned in to help the local neighborhood safety and block watch type group reimagine themselves as an effort that could balance hope with very real concerns. The group centers its efforts by elevating community strengths and finding collaborative solutions. Lisa has brought together folks of diverse viewpoints to make progress on community goals aligned with social determinants of health including increased safety, garbage removal, and beautification.

During the past year and a half of pandemic, she, along with others, kept this work rolling forward collaborating with many community organizations and neighbors. These were no small tasks during uncertain times.

Lisa’s kind hand at the tiller of community efforts has made all the difference. Thank you, Lisa!

To watch the 24th Annual Ken Gass Community Building Awards in which Lisa is recognized, click here.

Key Leader Invitation Video for Mt Baker Community Coalition

October 21, 2025June 18, 2021 by Becca Shew

Mt. Baker Youth Substance Use Prevention Youth Fellows

April 19, 2021April 15, 2021 by Kristin Danielson

Up to 6 fellowships available

Brief Description: Assist the Mt. Baker Community Coalition (MBCC) to complete grant-based projects such as Alcohol Community Assessment of Neighborhood Stores (CANS) and Cannabis Sticker Shock Campaign, engage in community outreach and attend/present to coalition meetings as youth/young adult representatives.

FTE/Status: Seeking applicants ages 16-24 for up 6 paid part-time youth leadership and workforce development fellowships. Typically, 6-10 hours a week, depending on the context of placement. Position begins May 20^th and ends September 25^th, 2021.

To Apply: Request an application packet. Email Emma Giri at connect@wfcn.org. All completed application packets are due by May 7^th at 3pm.

Essential Functions:

Attend prevention skills education trainings.

Attend, design, and implement sessions for development of CANS and Sticker Shock Campaign.

Assess local neighborhood stores, communicate with managers and staff, collect and analyze data for Community Assessment of Neighborhood Stores (CANS) effort.

Attend MBCC meetings and present data and findings from CANS and outcomes from Sticker Shock Campaign.

Be an ambassador for the MBCC; help the community increase awareness about the coalition’s purpose/efforts within your circles of influence, following best practices in prevention (family, school, peers, etc.)

Generate ideas for future youth engagement in the MBCC.

Assist in designing retailer education packets and recognition material.

Manage internship requirements as outlined by MBCC.

Preferred Skills or Characteristics

Ability to demonstrate contextual experience in the Mount Baker Community including residence, association, or historical experiences.

Organizational skills and ability to navigate community relationships.

Strong verbal communication skills, public speaking, community outreach

Positive attitude

Interest in change for positive community health and social justice

Benefits:

Professional development, professional recommendations

Community networking and awareness

Meaningful work and recognition for a job well done

Personal satisfaction from making a positive change in your community

Resume writing assistance

Compensation:

Upon project completion, in September, each Baker Youth Prevention Fellow will receive $500 for completing the project and essential functions.

THE SCIENCE & POWER HOPE

April 7, 2021April 7, 2021 by Kristin Danielson

Hope Centered and Trauma Informed – Learn how you can build hope for yourself and others!

DATE: May 25, 2021
TIME: 12:00PM—4:00PM
LOCATION: Virtual Event

Hope is real, hope is measurable, and hope is malleable. Youth who demonstrate higher hope:

Do better in school
Report less substance use
Experience less anxiety and depression

Learn how motivation and pathways are keys to achieving goals and experiencing a better life.

Featuring: Dr. Chan Hellman
Chan Hellman, Ph.D., is a professor, quantitative psychologist, and the Director of The Hope Research Center at the University of Oklahoma. He has studied hope and resilience for more than 15 years.

TO REGISTER
The sponsors have made this event FREE for you.
Register at https://forms.gle/a6SKufBU8fg1cnpc9

Continuing Education Units and Clock Hours are available (pending approval). For questions, please contact AGeleyns@co.whatcom.wa.us

Job Opening: Community Engagement Coordinator

April 7, 2021January 14, 2021 by Kristin Danielson

Title: Community Engagement Coordinator
FTE/Status: Part Time, between 20 to 26 hours weekly. Grant funded position.
Hours: Mostly between Mon. to Fri. 8 to 5 p.m. Some weekends and evenings.
Begin Date Target: February 16th, 2021
Position Open Until Filled. Priority Deadline: January 24th, 2021

To Apply: Send or email cover letter, resume and three professional references (include position title in email subject line and ensure your name, phone number and email contacts are in both the cover letter and resume) to info@wfcn.org

Description: Provides direct and indirect supports to prevention professionals, youth and families to increase coalition engagement, including public relations & outreach, program coordination and volunteer management. Focuses on increasing youth and family leadership, prevention science knowledge and participation in coalition strategy. Volunteer management and supervision of coalition members/club youth. Project activity, event and professional development coordination. Reports to Executive Director. Collaborates with Mt. Baker Comm. Coalition Coordinator.

Essential Functions
- Program Coordination: Plan and implement strategies to engage youth, families and community partners in the work of increasing protective factors and decreasing risk factors that impact youth substance use and promote mental wellbeing. Follow DFC and DBHR work plans.
- Youth Engagement Coordination: Plan, coordinate and implement training, activities and events for youth, families and prevention professionals that increases leadership skills, prevention science knowledge and advances prevention strategies and outcomes.
- Professional Communication: Create quality print and electronic content & materials using a variety of technology. Communicate clearly in written, verbal and visual formats for diverse audiences: youth, families and community at large. Provide frequent face-to-face, e-mail and phone contact with sector representatives and coalition members, including county-wide school systems, parents, youth and young adults. Bilingual skills a plus!
- Volunteer Coordination: Recruit, recognize, retain and management risks associated with member engagement. Collaborate with volunteers, coalition members and interns.
- Advanced computing skills: Word, Excel, PowerPoint; Desktop publishing software (i.e. Canva/Publisher). Create forms, flyers, spreadsheets; Website research; Be social media savvy. Able to learn new technology.
- Community Capacity Development: Work collaboratively with staff and community partners, adhering to systems and procedures. Cultivate strategic partnerships to strengthen community and build program sustainability.
- Demonstrate cultural humility and sensitivity. Work with diverse populations. Value and act to increase equity & social justice.
- Values Aligned with WFCN Team: Practice Self-Care and Wellbeing. Be Honest and Transparent, Hopeful, Persistent & Collaborative; Show Positive psychology in word and deed. Have genuine interest in helping prevention of youth substance use and suicide; Be open-minded, grow-oriented, detail-oriented, and organized. Show ability to understand larger systems thinking; Be a clear and respectful communicator

Other Duties:
- Administrative tasks—e-mailing, phone work, filing, copying, data entry and reporting as relevant to WFCN need and project assignment.
- Attend Mt Baker Community Coalition Meetings and other community events and meetings as relevant according to availability.
- Attend relevant trainings and be willing to travel.
- Seek funding opportunities through networking and research.
Qualifications:
- 1 year experience with human services, public health, education or related area utilizing skills outlined.
- Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree in related field or equivalent professional experience

Benefits:
- Flexible scheduling aligned with needs of the project.
- Employer share of employment taxes; L&I.
- Mileage reimbursement for approved travel for business purposes.
- Prorated medical or dental benefits for employees working 20 hours or more per week.
- Professional development, resume building, professional recommendations.
- Work in a positive and trauma informed organization with hard working professionals.

Compensation:
- Starting Range: $18.50 to $19.40 hourly, depending on experience and funding.

Whatcom Family & Community Network is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Watch 2020 Ken Gass Community Building Awards

April 1, 2026December 22, 2020 by Kristin Danielson

Congratulations to our 2020 Community Builder Award Honorees!

Missed our online event premiere? No problem!

Watch here or at WFCN’s YouTube channel to celebrate all of our award winners

For 30 years, WFCN has catalyzed community connection and collective action to solve challenging problems faced by children, youth and families. Your contributions support us to develop community capacity in innovative and inclusive ways. Our aim is to build hope and resilience so that children, youth, families and communities thrive. Your donation helps to increase the services, training and support we offer to benefit everyone in Whatcom County.

Click to donate now.

Whatcom Family & Community Network’s purpose is to promote the well-being of children, youth and families by convening and supporting communities to build their capacity. WFCN is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization and the home of Whatcom Prevention Coalition, Mt. Baker Community Coalition, ACEs/Resilience Network, Gang Prevention Team, and MAD HOPE Youth Suicide Prevention.