About Cross Lutheran Church (Cross);

Rooted in a historic African American neighborhood in Milwaukee, Cross Lutheran Church advocates for quality housing, wellness, food security, and equitable opportunities. Grounded in faith in God’s peace, prayer, service, right relationships, and diversity, Cross reached, taught and created a Christian principled fellowship of youth and worshippers to be servant leaders. Cross is rebuilding after pandemic-related declines in membership, partnerships, and facility use. Guided by its Council and Interim Pastor, Cross seeks to strengthen outreach, ministries, and relationships that foster healing, community engagement, love, and faith.

Job Summary

We are seeking a passionate and dynamic Community Outreach Worker to serve as a vital link between our organization and diverse communities. In this role, you will develop and implement outreach strategies to engage underserved populations, promote community programs, and foster meaningful partnerships. Your energetic approach will help empower residents, facilitate access to vital services, and strengthen our collective impact. This paid part-time position offers an exciting opportunity to lead grassroots initiatives, coordinate with community partners, and make a tangible difference in people’s lives through proactive engagement and compassionate service.

Work is directed by Community Development Strategist and Intern Pastor

Primary Job Duties

• Community Engagement: As an active member of Cross, bring the needs, ideas, and people to the congregation. Meet with individuals and families to assess needs and explain available support programs. Provide connections between Cross, its members, ministries and programs to the surrounding neighborhood.

  • Support face-to-face, and online activities; schedule regular hours for availability. Work in different environments (both office-based and on the ground), at times best suited to the community (including evenings and weekends and Cross Sunday worship services)).

  • Design and execute community outreach programs tailored to the needs of culturally diverse populations, including youth and underserved groups.

  • Manage volunteer teams, providing supervision, training, and motivation to ensure effective program delivery. Engaging youth and family is a priority.

  • Lead grassroots organizing efforts by engaging residents in planning activities that foster community stewardship and participation.

• Partnership Building: Build relationships with local Lutheran congregations, volunteers, and community groups.

  • Conduct public speaking engagements at community events, schools, and local organizations to raise awareness about available services and resources.

  • Develop marketing materials and utilize social media platforms to promote programs, events, and community initiatives.

• Program Coordination: Plan outreach events, food drives, or educational workshops to promote resources and Cross services.

  • Collect and analyze data related to outreach activities to evaluate program effectiveness and inform future strategies.

  • Collaborate with community partners, local agencies, and stakeholders to coordinate efforts and expand outreach reach.

Engagement: September 2026 through September 2027

Experience

• As a self-starter, managed volunteers and supervised team members within community or social service settings.
• Presented to diverse audiences.
• Background in program development, project management, or social work with a focus on public health, arts, music, crafts, gardening.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with culturally diverse communities and provide access to underserved populations.
• Proficiency in social media management, data collection tools, and basic technical platforms for outreach purposes.
• Work with youth programs or educational initiatives is highly desirable.
• Bilingual abilities are a plus for engaging non-English speaking community members; CPR certification is preferred for safety responsiveness.

Join us in creating vibrant, inclusive communities! This paid role offers the chance to develop leadership skills, engage directly with the community, long-term employment, and contribute meaningfully toward spiritual and social growth through energetic outreach efforts. We value dedicated individuals who are passionate about making a difference through collaboration, innovation, and heartfelt service.