Blindness Initiatives Program Assistant

Join to apply for the Blindness Initiatives Program Assistant role at Maryland Nonprofits

The National Federation of the Blind is a membership organization of blind people from each of the fifty states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. As America's civil rights organization of the blind, the Federation is a coordinated network of skilled advocates, resources, and programs that raise expectations of the blind in society and create opportunities for blind people to live the lives they want.

The staff of the Federation are central to the organized blind movement by providing support, professional expertise, and daily contributions to the success of the organization. Working under the direction of the Federation's elected President, the staff advise the organization's leadership and contribute to the vibrant, energetic, and collaborative culture of the organization that raises expectations throughout society.

The Blindness Initiatives (BI) Program Assistant plays a key role in advancing the mission of the National Federation of the Blind by supporting the growth and success of our innovative education and employment programs. Reporting directly to the Executive Director of Blindness Initiatives, this position provides essential administrative and programmatic support that ensures our initiatives run smoothly and effectively.

We are seeking a highly organized, proactive, and resourceful individual who thrives in a dynamic environment and can manage multiple priorities with efficiency and attention to detail. The Program Assistant will work closely with program coordinators, partners, and participants to coordinate logistics, manage communications, and help bring impactful projects to life.

The ideal candidate is a strong communicator, both in writing and speaking, who can adapt quickly, solve problems creatively, and maintain professionalism in fast‑paced settings. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful national programs that empower blind youth and adults to achieve their education and career success.

The position requires occasional evenings, weekends, day trips, and overnight travel to support events, meet program deadlines, and represent the Federation.

• Provide administrative support to the Executive Director of Blindness Initiatives and program staff.
• Assist in the planning, coordination, and execution of education and employment programs, events, and initiatives.
• Manage scheduling, logistics, and communication for meetings, workshops, and program activities.
• Draft, edit, and proofread correspondence, reports, and program materials.
• Maintain program databases, records, and files with accuracy and confidentiality.
• Track program deadlines, deliverables, and participant requirements to ensure timely completion.
• Support outreach and communication efforts with stakeholders, partners, and program participants.
• Assist with travel arrangements, expense tracking, and budget monitoring for program‑related activities.
• Coordinate the ordering, receiving, assembling, packing, and shipping of supplies to various program sites.
• Provide on‑site support for events and conferences, including evenings, weekends, and travel as required.
• Perform other administrative tasks and logistical support as assigned to advance program goals.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with attention to detail.
• Proficiency with office software, databases, and virtual meeting platforms.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing to a collaborative team environment.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and travel for short- and long-term assignments.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated problem‑solving ability, adaptability, and initiative in administrative tasks.
• Experience in nonprofit, education, workforce development, or program administration (preferred).
• Commitment to the mission and values of the National Federation of the Blind.

• 2–4 years of relevant administrative,…