Since 2014, Casa Alitas, an affiliate of Catholic Community Services, has been providing aid to migrant families in Tucson, Arizona. The majority of our guests come from Central America and Mexico. They have been released from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol custody on humanitarian parole and need assistance in continuing their journey to reunite with family members in the United States. Casa Alitas provides hospitality and humanitarian aid to our guests by offering food, beds, basic amenities, legal orientation, and assistance making travel arrangements.

The Casa Alitas program relies heavily on its volunteers to operate the Casa Alitas Welcome Center and community shelters and care for guests.

At the Alitas shelter, the coordinator is expected to:

• Work with volunteers to facilitate immediate aid for migrant guests.
• Effectively communicate changes to shelter systems and scheduling to volunteers.
• Train volunteers on their role.
• Work with volunteers to find alternative housing for guests when necessary.

• Work on recruitment of volunteers for Alitas.
• Solicit donations and other needs from community members .
• Organize and meet with different volunteer groups focused on systems development.
• Participate in community outreach and advocacy activities on behalf of Alitas.

Coordinators must also: 

• Work on creating and improving systems at the shelter for guests and volunteers.
• Communicate regularly with volunteers regarding program information, scheduling, training, or other topics as needed.
• Regularly meet with volunteers to share program information, discuss concerns and develop solutions.
• Maintain contact with ICE and Border Patrol and communicate any relevant information to Program Manager and/or Program Director.
• Maintain regular contact with Casa Alitas Program Manager and Program Director as to program activities and needed support.

The needs of guests and volunteers vary by individual. All applicants need to be open minded and willing to take initiative, as well as be cooperative team members. Applicants are also expected be at least 18 years of age; have a valid driver's license; and agree to completion of a background check for an Arizona Level 1 Fingerprint Clearance (the cost will be covered by Alitas).