Community Engagement Liaison

Position Summary:

The City of Urbana is seeking qualified applicants for an exciting opportunity to serves as a trusted liaison between Urbana residents - particularly those from underserved and marginalized communities - and City resources, community organizations, and violence prevention initiatives. Working as a valuable member of the Urbana Police Department’s Community Engagement Team, this non-sworn, civilian position combines proactive community engagement with targeted conflict mediation and violence interruption strategies.

The Community Engagement Liaison works to reduce harm, prevent retaliation, strengthen neighborhood relationships, and increase equitable access to services and opportunities. The successful candidate will collaborate with law enforcement and with other City departments, public safety partners, schools, hospitals, and community-based organizations to promote safety, wellness, and community resilience.
This is a limited-term position with an anticipated duration of three (3) years, dependent upon continued funding.

• Is passionate about serving their community, proving and supporting trauma-informed care, and making a lasting impact in marginalized communities.
• Has a demonstrated understanding of the issues affecting the Urbana-Champaign community as well as those affecting our community members impacted by violence, under representation, and/or limited resource availability.
• Actively listens and responds with empathy, especially when dealing with sensitive or emotionally charged situations; demonstrates strong personal resilience during highly charged public hearings, maintaining composure and professionalism in challenging situations.
• Demonstrates consistency between words and actions, reinforcing the City’s values.
• Maintains professionalism and focus even amid frequent interruptions or shifting demands.
• Is highly organized and maintains accuracy and consistency in documents, maps, and reports.
• Consistently adheres to rules, policies, and ethical standards – even when no one is watching.
• Strengthens team culture by being open, respectful, and generous with knowledge.

• Actively supports and upholds the City’s mission and values.
• Builds and maintain strong relationships with residents, neighborhood leaders, schools, faith-based groups, and local organizations.
• Conducts proactive outreach to individuals and communities at elevated risk of violence.
• Works with residents and community members to identify and mediate conflicts to prevent escalation and retaliation.
• Provides trauma-informed support and maintains consistent engagement with members of at risk populations.
• Connects residents to community resources including mental health, employment, education, housing, and victim services.
• Develops and facilitates workshops, events, and outreach initiatives focused on safety, wellness, and civic engagement.
• Documents outreach, mediations, and referrals in accordance with City and department requirements and established procedures.
• Assists in developing and maintaining the Urbana Police Department’s community engagement programs, particularly those focused on outreach to at risk populations in the community.
• Assists in developing mechanisms and strategies to facilitate communication between the Police Department and citizens regarding progress toward organizational goals, changes and achievements.
• Assists in representing the City of Urbana, as assigned, through networking and participation in a variety of meetings, public forums and social and civic functions with elected officials, external agencies, and community, neighborhood and business organizations.
• Creates, cultivates, and deepens strategic partnerships with key community members and groups.
• Attends meetings, seminars and forums of interest to keep informed of changing trends or legislative initiatives. Monitors publications and networks for relevant information pertaining to agendas assigned area of work. Reports significant information to Supervisor and members of Urbana Police Administration as required.
• Maintains various records of activities and programs. Prepares general…