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Nutrition Program Assistant

POSITION: Volunteer Nutrition Program Assistant
DEPARTMENT: Programming/Nutrition
REPORTS TO: Nutrition Program Manager
LOCATION: Lewiston, ME or South Portland, ME

Schedule & Hours Commitment:

  • Ability to be flexible with hours is a must as hours are dependent on the nutrition program times (can include morning, afternoon, and evening times)
  • Volunteer will know time commitments well in advance
  • The schedule for this position includes approximately 3-6 hours per month

Position Summary:

The person in this position will work closely with the Nutrition Program Coordinator, supporting the coordinator with the preparation, proctoring, and clean-up of nutrition programs. This position supports the center’s nutrition and cooking programs as well as our comfort soup program.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

Cooking Classes responsibilities include:

  • copying handouts/recipes
  • setting up cooking classes
  • arranging furniture
  • prepping food
  • setting up for food service
  • supporting instructor during class
  • cleaning dishes and counters afterward
  • assist in maintaining clean cupboards and refrigerator.

The position may include a small amount of driving to pick up food for cooking classes.

Classes typically run on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays (~2 times per month)

  •  10:00 – 12:00 PM (assistant needed 9:15AM – 12:30 PM)
  •  1:00 – 2:30 PM (assistant needed 12:15 – 3:00 PM)
  •  3:00 – 4:30 PM (assistant needed from 2:15 – 5:00 PM)
  •  5:00 – 6:30 PM (assistant needed 4:45 – 7:00 PM)

Required Skills and Experience:

  • Basic food preparation skills
  • Knowledge of safe food handling practices. (Training will be provided)
  • Must hold valid Maine driver’s license and auto insurance and be willing to use personal vehicle for volunteer-related tasks

Required Education or Certifications:

  • Must hold valid Maine driver’s license and auto insurance and be willing to use personal vehicle for volunteer-related tasks

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to move furniture (chairs and tables on wheels)
  • Ability to stand at sink for extended periods of time.

General Requirements:

  • Must attend Dempsey Experience Training
  • Maintains professional behavior, dress, and appearance at all times while volunteering
  • Must use discretion and protect the confidentiality of all Dempsey Center clients.; HIPAA-specific training will be provided.

Required for All Volunteers:

  • Background check
  • Annual Influenza Immunization or Declination Notice
  • COVID-19 vaccination + Bivalent Booster

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the Dempsey Center
The Dempsey Center promotes a culture of inclusion and seeks talented staff from diverse backgrounds. The Dempsey Center encourages applications from qualified candidates of every age, race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, and veteran status.

At the Dempsey Center, we celebrate diversity, advance equity, and create a culture of respect and belonging built on safety, human dignity, and bravery.