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2013 Community Mentor Job Description

Appointment:

9 months, part-time, live-in

Training:

• Fall Training 2013: All new and returning staff will participate in an intensive training session starting August 7, 2013. CMs cannot have any other commitments between August 7 and 25, 2013 (without prior approval).
• Winter Training 2014: Participate in the training that takes place the Thursday, Friday and Saturday (January 9-11, 2014) before classes begin spring semester.
• A few all-staff meetings or workshops (in-services) will be required each semester of the 2013-2014 academic year. Only staff members with a class conflict are excused.
• Staff meetings will happen on a weekly basis on Tuesday evenings from 9 pm – 11 pm.

Supervisor:

Commons Coordinator

Compensation:

Room and a 'C' board plan (no board plan for apartments)

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General Description

The Community Mentor (CM) is a part-time, live-in paraprofessional staff member for the Office of Residence Life. The CM’s primary responsibility is to facilitate relationships among residents and to help build a community that is culturally rich, intellectually stimulating, fun, sustainable, service driven, and inclusive and respectful of diversity. The CM takes responsibility for supporting the mission of a liberal arts education. By facilitating a safe and healthy environment, the CM supports the intellectual and emotional development of students. The CM works closely with student government, the Commons Coordinator, Faculty Associates, and residents in order to pursue program excellence both within the area and across the department. Since staff members are required to respond to changing needs and situations, The CM position is one that requires dedication, flexibility, commitment, and enthusiasm. 

Contract Period

The CM contract begins at 8 am, Wednesday, August 7, 2013 and ends at 5 pm, Monday, May 12, 2013. CMs can leave for winter break at 5 pm Sunday, December 15, 2013 and must return by 12 pm, Thursday, January 9, 2014. 

Academic Requirements

Maintain academic standing of at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA.

Enroll in no more than 4.25 hours of academic credit without prior approval from your supervisor. It is generally recommended that CMs carry a lighter course load during fall semester. 

Primary Responsibilities:

Peer Advisor/Advocate

1. Develop and maintain positive interpersonal relationships with students, maintaining a visible presence in the community.
2. Handle sensitive information properly.
3. Support the development of community and a sense of ownership and responsibility among residents; mediate conflicts when necessary.
4. Serve as referral agent for University and community services and resources.
5. Serve as an advocate for residents to support their understanding of and representation in the conduct process and their student rights and responsibilities in the commons.

Leader/Educator

1. Perform duties as it is outlined in the constitution (area specific) and work with residents and faculty in planning and implementing appropriate community programs.
2. Provide support for the academic, social, educational, and recreational interests of residents.
3. Possess knowledge of and ability to articulate the goals of a Willamette liberal arts education.
4. Facilitate student involvement in the democratic decision making process.
5. Support community by attending area, departmental, and campus programs. 

Facilitator of Responsible Student Behavior

1. Demonstrate responsible behavior in accordance with the decisions of the Commons Council, Standards of Conduct, and other University policies.
2. Promote awareness of and commitment to these standards and to community norms.
3. Respond to residents’ behavior in a fair, consistent, and equitable manner.
4. Serve as an advocate for diversity and multicultural understanding.
5. Work with the Commons Coordinator and conduct boards on conduct issues.
6. Represent the Commons in a positive yet constructive way to enhance the quality of life for residents. 

Administrator

1. Execute assigned administrative tasks thoroughly and promptly.
2. Perform 'On Call' duty responsibilities of the position.
3. Disseminate and post appropriate information to students.
4. Promote a safe and healthy environment using a team approach with Facilities, Campus Safety, Maintenance, and student governance bodies, etc.
5. Respond to personal crises and medical emergencies.
6. Complete all administrative functions.
7. Attend staff meetings, including meetings with other departments such as Residential Services, Campus Safety, Facilities and Maintenance.
8. Use programming funds responsibly. 

Secondary Responsibilities

1. Collaborate with Commons Council, residents, faculty, and staff to promote the best possible living/learning community.
2. Actively engage in fall orientation, in-service training, and other developmental and training sessions as designated by the Office of Residence Life.
3. Actively and conscientiously participate in Residence Life staff programs and responsibilities.
4. Attend CM training sessions including fall, spring, and ongoing in-service sessions.
5. Serve with and support elected residence hall representatives.
6. Assist with the housing selection and room change processes.
7. Assist in selection process of new staff members.
8. Keep regular contact with the Commons Coordinator and other colleagues.
9. Perform other duties as assigned by the Office of Residence Life.