Community Program Assistant Jobs in Arkansas (NOW HIRING)

Part-Time VITA Program Assistant

Southern Bancorp Community Partners is a different kind of lender. As a non-profit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), a special certification designated for institutions that serve predominantly underserved communities, Southern Bancorp Community Partners combines lending with financial development tools and public policy advocacy to help families and communities grow stronger. Inspired by the principle that building net worth drives economic opportunity, our mission is to be wealth builders for everyone in the communities we serve, with a focus on low-wealth, underserved and un(der)banked populations.

This is a temporary, part-time position located in Jonesboro, AR. The anticipated assignment will begin in mid-September and conclude in mid-April following the VITA tax season. The organization is seeking a motivated and community-minded Part-Time VITA Program Assistant to support the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. This position is ideal for an individual seeking hands-on experience in program operations, community engagement, event coordination, and tax preparation.

This role will help ensure VITA sites are prepared for tax season by conducting community research, coordinating supplies and signage, assisting with event planning, and monitoring program performance. The position serves as a key liaison between program leadership, retail partners, volunteers, and community stakeholders to support successful program delivery across multiple service areas.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Community Research and Market Development

• Research grassroots organizations, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, schools, employers, and local businesses within the areas of new VITA locations.
• Identify potential community partners, referral sources, and outreach channels.
• Develop and maintain market-specific outreach lists and partner databases.
• Assist with efforts to establish VITA awareness and presence in newly served communities.

VITA Site Readiness and Logistics

• Assist with completing pre-season forms
• Assist with ordering and tracking supplies for VITA locations.
• Ensure sites receive all required materials, including signage, marketing materials, and operational supplies.

Liaison Support

• Help identify and resolve site needs related to supplies, signage, equipment, and logistics to be communicated to the Wealth Building Programs Specialist
• Maintain regular communication with site contacts and provide status updates to leadership as needed.

Event Coordination

• Monitor event readiness and help address logistical concerns to ensure smooth operations.

Program Monitoring and Reporting

• Monitor VITA dashboard performance and participation metrics and notify program leadership when locations may benefit from additional outreach, volunteer recruitment, or promotional efforts.

Administrative Support

• Maintain organized records and tracking documents.
• Assist with volunteer and partner communications.
• Support scheduling, meeting coordination, and other administrative functions.
• Support the Wealth Building Programs Specialist during certification trainings by monitoring the chat and other training needs.

Qualifications

• Strong interest in community development, financial education, and tax preparation.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, Outlook, and Teams.
• Self-motivated with strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with staff, and community partners.

Preferred Experience

• Previous customer service, administrative, volunteer, or internship experience.
• Experience coordinating events, projects, or community activities.
• Familiarity with VITA or IRS-sponsored tax assistance programs is a plus but not required.

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to lift, carry, and move program materials, supplies, signage, equipment, and event resources weighing up to 30 pounds regularly and occasionally more with assistance.
• Must be comfortable assisting with site setup and breakdown for VITA locations, outreach events, and Super Saturday activities.
• Ability to work occasional weekends during peak tax season and special events.
• May include occasional travel to locations throughout Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and Texas, including markets such as Springfield, Tulsa, and Dallas.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and have reliable transportation

A positive impact on Your Future:

• 401(k)/Roth plan with immediate eligibility and employer match up to 6%
• Credit and housing counseling as well as free financial education tools available to customers and employees

Benefits to improve your health:

• Dental and vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts

The opportunity to nurture your well-being:

• Paid holidays and paid time off
• Opportunity for merit raises
• Employee reward and recognition programs
• Community service opportunities