Community Connector (Duval, Jim Wells, Kleberg, Live Oak, & McMullen counties)

Summary: 

Anchored in a specific region within MHM’s service area, the Community Connector (Duval, Jim Wells, Kleberg, Live Oak, and McMullen counties) will build, maintain, and facilitate relationships and networks to support community transformation. This position specifically serves Duval, Jim Wells, Kleberg, Live Oak, and McMullen counties. This position will work closely with a variety of departments at MHM, serving as a resource during the development and implementation of community-based efforts to improve health and well-being.

Essential Duties:

• Serve as a regional point person for MHM as an organization, providing on-the-ground feedback and insight for various departments, including Community Investments, Policy, Community Health & Wellness, Strategy, and Church Connections
• Identify, cultivate and maintain strong relationships and communication with a variety of external partners, including faith communities, community-based organizations, schools, and other nonprofits.
• Connect coalitions, organizations, and efforts seeking to improve vital conditions and close equity gaps to MHM and to each other
• Identify, advocate, and provide guidance for the integration of persons with lived experience of inequities into leadership structures in local communities and coalitions
• Facilitate balanced portfolios in the Pathways to Population Health framework, beginning with asset-mapping to build upon community strengths
• Co-design and coordinate capacity-building efforts based on local requests and feedback
• Provide coaching and support as requested by community residents, organizations, and coalitions
• Co-design, organize, and facilitate convenings on a local level
• Coordinate and communicate with various MHM departments to identify points of intersection
• Facilitate conversations, planning efforts, and group decision-making processes with communities through critical thinking, teamwork, collaborative problem-solving, and inclusion.
• Represent MHM at community meetings and on community task forces as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

To successfully perform this role, an individual must be able to carry out each essential duty effectively. The qualifications outlined below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Education and/or Experience:

Required:

• • Bachelor’s degree in social/behavioral sciences, public health, or a related field.
  • Three (3) years of experience in community outreach or organizing, including work directly with individuals who have lived experience of inequities.
• In lieu of a degree:
  • High school diploma or equivalent and
  • Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in community outreach or organizing roles.
  • Must demonstrate experience engaging individuals with lived experience in projects, programs, or decision-making processes.

Preferred:

• Understanding of community development models, particularly Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD).
• Experience working with and addressing health and social inequities in marginalized populations.
• Background in community organizing and partnerships with grassroots organizations.
• Experience engaging or collaborating with diverse faith-based communities.
• Strong project management, public speaking, conflict mediation, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work across departments to achieve shared goals.

Location:

Must live in Duval, Jim Wells, Kleberg, Live Oak, or McMullen counties. Must also be rooted in that region, having lived in that area for at least 5 consecutive years. This position will require frequent travel within the specific region being served.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

None.

Language Skills:

Comfortable speaking and responding to questions in front of diverse audiences, including community members, leaders, and staff. Bilingual in English and Spanish required. Must be able to develop documents and deliver presentations in both languages.

Reasoning Ability:

Demonstrates creative, strategic thinking and sound judgment. Able to work independently and collaboratively across diverse stakeholders to build consensus. Skilled in problem definition, data collection, analysis, and drawing valid conclusions. Excels in complex, matrixed environments with a focus on collaboration, negotiation, and innovation.

Computer Skills:

Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and virtual collaboration tools such as Zoom and MS Teams. Must be able to navigate online platforms and systems effectively.

Other:

• Commitment to health equity and community-driven approaches
• Learning-oriented mindset with willingness to innovate and “fail forward”
• Understanding of upstream and root cause community health work and the differences between charity, equity, and liberation
• Passion for creating positive change that leads to thriving communities
• Adaptability to shifting priorities and evolving circumstances
• Strategic and analytical thinking about social, economic, and political issues
• Strong relationship-building skills and ability to engage across sectors
• Understanding of the roles and contributions of community stakeholders
• Must have a valid driver’s license, access to a vehicle, and auto liability insurance

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

This role involves bending, walking, standing, and sitting for extended periods. Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds. Travel within the assigned region and to San Antonio is required up to 75% of the time. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities.

To apply please visit our careers page at www.mhm.org