Post Title: Community Facilitator

Duty station: Kandy, Jaffna, Batticaloa and Hambantota

Duration of Appointment:  One year and possible for extension – Full Time

Language required: Fluent English and Sinhala or Tamil in verbal and written communications

Expected Starting Date: Immediate

Background

About IYAP

The International Youth Alliance for Peace (IYAP) is a non-profit organization that collaborates with passionate volunteers to promote youth development, entrepreneurship, and the advancement of democracy through education grounded in values. Our mission is to empower young individuals to drive positive transformations in their communities. We achieve this by offering personal growth opportunities, leadership training, and skill development programs. Through our initiatives, we aim to foster youth participation in political processes, advocate for human rights, and encourage decision-making that strengthens democracy. Together with our dedicated volunteers, we strive to create a better future for young people worldwide.

About the Position

The Community Facilitator is responsible for building and maintaining strong relationships with the local community in Jaffna, Kandy, Batticaloa, or Hambantota. They serve as a bridge between the organization and the community, working to understand their needs, aspirations, and concerns. The Community Facilitator facilitates effective communication, promotes active community participation, and implements programs and initiatives that align with the organization’s mission and vision.

Degree of expertise and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Community Development, Social Work, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience working in community engagement, development, or a similar role.
• Familiarity with the local context and community dynamics in Jaffna, Kandy, Batticaloa, or Hambantota.
• Strong knowledge of community development principles, approaches, and best practices.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and facilitation skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and reporting.

Job Requirements, Performance Evaluation and Responsibilities

• Engage community members in open discussions, events, and activities to foster their active participation and involvement.
• Act as a liaison between the organization and the community, establishing and maintaining strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
• Conduct needs assessments to identify the specific needs, challenges, and opportunities within the community.
• Collaborate with community members and stakeholders to design and implement programs, initiatives, and projects that address identified needs and align with the organization’s objectives.
• Organize workshops, training sessions, and community events to promote community development, capacity building, and empowerment.
• Facilitate dialogue and constructive communication to resolve conflicts or disputes within the community.
• Advocate for the interests and concerns of the community to relevant stakeholders, including policymakers, government agencies, and organizations.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact and effectiveness of community programs and initiatives, collecting data and providing reports to inform decision-making.
• Maintain accurate records, documentation, and reports related to community activities, progress, and outcomes.
• As a Community Facilitator, your primary function is to actively engage with the community in Jaffna, Kandy, Batticaloa, or Hambantota. You will work closely with community members, stakeholders, and the organization to understand their needs and aspirations and develop programs and initiatives that address those needs. Your role is to facilitate open communication, empower community members, and advocate for their interests and concerns.
• Engage community members and stakeholders in meaningful discussions and activities to promote community participation and ownership.
• Conduct thorough needs assessments to identify the specific needs and priorities of the community.
• Design and implement programs, initiatives, and projects that address the identified needs and align with the organization’s mission and vision.
• Foster collaboration and partnerships with local organizations, government agencies, businesses, and community groups to leverage resources and support for the community.
• Facilitate conflict resolution and promote dialogue within the community to ensure harmonious relationships and constructive communication.
• Advocate for the community’s interests and concerns to relevant stakeholders and decision-makers.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of community programs and initiatives to ensure their effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation related to community activities, progress, and outcomes.

Employee Standards

• Understanding of community engagement and development principles.
• Knowledge of local community dynamics and cultural sensitivities.
• Familiarity with relevant laws, policies, and regulations related to community development.
• Awareness of social issues, challenges, and opportunities in the region.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and establish trust with community members and stakeholders.
• Strong facilitation and conflict resolution skills.
• Project management skills, including planning, implementation, and evaluation.
• Data collection, analysis, and reporting skills.
• Proficiency in using technology and software for communication and documentation
• Strong commitment to the organization’s mission, vision, and values.
• Respect for diversity and cultural sensitivity.
• Empathy and compassion towards community members.
• Open-mindedness and willingness to learn from the community.
• Positive attitude and a team player mindset.