Restorative Justice Program Manager: Mural Arts Philadelphia

For over 35 years, Mural Arts has united artists and communities through a collaborative process, rooted in the traditions of mural-making, to create art that transforms public spaces and individual lives. Mural Arts engages communities in 50–100 public art projects each year and maintains its growing collection through a restoration initiative. Our core program areas – Art Education, Environmental Justice, Porch Light, and Restorative Justice – yield unique, project-based learning opportunities for thousands of youth and adults.

Each year, 15,000 residents and visitors tour Mural Arts’ outdoor art gallery, which has become part of the city’s civic landscape and a source of pride and inspiration, earning Philadelphia international recognition as the “Mural Capital of the World.”

Mural Arts Philadelphia – Restorative Justice Program Manager

Restorative justice is an alternative to traditional means of rehabilitation and punishment which brings together returning citizens and community members, focusing on conversation and understanding as the first steps on the path to healing.

Art education, paired with personal and professional development, and hands-on assistance on mural projects forge the growth of strong, positive bonds among individuals who are incarcerated, returning citizens, justice-impacted individuals, and communities. We place a strong emphasis on work readiness within our Guild program and give creative voice to people who have been disconnected from society.

Restorative Justice participants feel empowered by their accomplishments and emerge with a newfound sense of pride in their own abilities and enhanced employment readiness skills.

In addition, as part of the Anti-Violence Community Expansion Grant from the City of Philadelphia, Mural Arts Philadelphia has partnered with the Philadelphia Parks & Recreation to create a Rec Crew of Guild alumni who can help to transform several recreation centers in zip codes heavily impacted by violence.

Mural Arts Philadelphia is seeking a Program Manager to support the work of its nationally recognized Restorative Justice Program. This position will be responsible for day-to-day coordination in the Restorative Justice (RJ) Program with guidance from the Director. This position is an integral part of the Restorative Justice Team. It requires a strong desire to work in a collaborative manner with a robust village of internal and external partners assembled in service of the program participant’s personal and professional development/support and ultimate placement in job and or training opportunities.

Primary Duties:

• Serve as an integral member of the Restorative Justice (RJ) Department team to advance the mission of Mural Arts Philadelphia and the goals of the RJ Department.
• Manage GUILD cohorts for 20 to 25 justice impacted participants primarily between ages of 18 and 24.
  • Create an environment that is safe, welcomes, and respects participants from all backgrounds, and is in alignment with organization and departmental goals and values, rooted in restorative practices.
  • Monitor and support progress and growth of participants to maximize participation and contribution.
  • Encourage feedback and investment in overall program development.
  • Serve as a resource to help participants navigate work/life obstacles and challenges.
  • Document attendance in accordance with department policy and protocols.
  • Ensure all required data is collected and maintained to ensure compliance with funder requirements.
  • Model, mentor, and promote accountability for code of conduct specified in the handbook.
  • Ensure participants are actively engaged in the program and accessing resources and services that will support their successful completion.
  • Engage in collaborative and creative problem-solving in service of the participants and the goals of the program.
  • Serve as principal facilitator in class and primary point of contact with GUILD Program Participants.
• Serve as Chief Liaison for program instructors and serve as a support in the class during presentations.
  • Develop and maintain partnerships with individuals and institutions to support programs and participants.
• Provide instruction on key life skill topics in the curriculum based on content knowledge.
• Partner with Department Director and identified consultants to develop curriculum planning for both Guild and its companion program the Rec Crew.
• Ensure the Organization and Department expectations and protocols are clear and consistently implemented.
• Engage in evaluation of individual progress and overall learning objectives for each cohort.
• Manage approved budget for GUILD program ensuring expenses are in alignment and all demonstrative protocols governing the budget are followed.
• Serve as an ambassador for Mural Arts and the Restorative Justice Department in the day-to-day work and in external forums when appropriate.
• Participate in organization-wide trainings, events, and meetings as required.

Ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Commitment to the principles and practices of Restorative Justice.
• Familiarity with program development and program implementation.
• Belief in the power of participatory public art to beautify, inspire, and empower.
• Sensitivity to cultural, economic, gender, and sexual orientation differences.
• Alignment with core organizational values (curiosity, collaboration, innovation, diversity, equity, accountability, and forgiveness).
• Ability to work well with diverse populations, especially those impacted by trauma.
• Ability to both lead and learn.
• Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, MAP departments, and leadership.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Minimum of five years experience working with justice-impacted communities.
• Bachelor’s Degree in related fields or equivalent experience.
• Strong ability to facilitate groups in ways that engage and build investment.
• Familiarity with Restorative Practices and Trauma-Informed Care.
• Experience working with the 18- to 24-year-old population in an educational or workforce development context.
• Curriculum and program development experience.
• Evidence of ability to work in a team and commitment to collaboration with internal and external partners.
• Highly organized.
• Ability to build and maintain cross-sector partnerships.
• Willingness to learn and grow in the role and support team members' growth and development.
• Driver’s license (preferred).

This job description is a summary of the duties of the above position. Other related duties may be required by the supervisor.

Mural Arts is pleased to offer a competitive comprehensive health and dental benefits package.

For more information visit muralarts.org.

Follow us on social media: @muralarts on Twitter and Instagram, MuralArtsPhiladelphia on Facebook, and phillymuralarts on YouTube.

To Apply:

Interested applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, and list of up to three (3) professional references to damon.mcwhite@muralarts.org with “Restorative Justice Resource Coordinator” in the subject line. No phone calls or recruiters please.