Outreach Specialist (Temporary) - Jackson TN Area

Reports to

Outreach Coordinator

Who is Persevere? 

Persevere is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering justice-involved individuals through innovative workforce development and career preparation support services that give real access to quality employment in the technology industry. Specifically, Persevere provides technology training, career readiness instruction and support, wraparound case management, individualized job-based mentoring, and job placement services for justice-impacted individuals and people who are at risk for justice-involvement. 

Founded by and for people with lived experience with criminal justice, corrections, and poverty, Persevere understands the needs of the justice-impacted population as few organizations can, and our work embodies our commitment to reducing racial inequalities throughout all aspects of society and eliminating disproportionate minority contact and disproportionate minority confinement within the criminal justice system. As we have grown and expanded, we have focused on developing and executing strategies that continue to expand our mission of reducing racial disparities and inequalities, both as part of our work, and as well, our organization's practices regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

Real Hope. Valuable Skills. Meaningful Opportunity.

Job Overview    

Persevere is seeking a dynamic and motivated Outreach Specialist to recruit potential students for our programs across a designated block of counties in West Tennessee. This part-time, temporary position requires an individual who is passionate about community engagement and has a commitment to helping individuals facing employment barriers. The Outreach Specialist will play a crucial role in expanding our reach and ensuring eligible candidates have access to educational opportunities  This is a full-time but temporary position without benefits.  The work is expected to extend through year’s end with the possibility of beyond.  The territory for this role is the Jackson TN area including but not limited to Madison, Henderson, Decatur, Chester, McNairy, Hardin, Hardeman.  Reliable transportation is required and pre-approved mileage will be reimbursed.

 

Job Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

 

  • Conduct outreach activities within the assigned counties to recruit potential students.

  • Develop and maintain relationships with community partners, organizations, and service providers to increase awareness of Persevere’s programs.

  • Attend community events, job fairs, and information sessions to promote program opportunities.

  • Utilize various outreach methods, including in-person visits, phone calls, social media, and email, to connect with potential students.

  • Assess the needs and eligibility of prospective students and provide guidance on the enrollment process.

  • Report recruitment activity and maintain accurate records of outreach efforts.

  • Collaborate with the Persevere team to ensure seamless support for students from outreach through enrollment.

 

Requirements:

 

  • Previous experience in outreach, recruitment, community engagement, or a related field is preferred.

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to connect with diverse populations.

  • Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage time effectively.

  • Must possess a valid driver’s license and be willing to travel extensively within the assigned counties.

 

We highly value

  • Passion for and responsibility to the customer/partner

  • Must be self-starting, hardworking and inquisitive

  • Leadership through innovation in everything you do

  • Passion for what you do and being self-reflective to improve

  • Relentless commitment to win

  • Personal and corporate integrity