Program Manager

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Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Best Buddies is the largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people worldwide with IDD.

Our programs empower people with IDD to form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure jobs, improve communication and advocacy skills, and live independently, while also offering support for their families.

• Job Title:
  
  Program Manager
• Department:
  State Operations and Programs
• Reports to:
  
  Senior Program Manager
• Salary Range: $43,000-$45,000

The primary responsibility of the Program Manager is to work with people throughout their communities to drive the mission of Best Buddies forward through their involvement with our school and community-based Friendship Programs. Our Program Managers are fundamental to engaging people in our mission and serving as a support person as our members create more inclusive communities for people with intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD).

The Program Manager is responsible for working closely with our chapter and community leadership to manage our volunteer base and provide a high-quality experience. This role is fundamental to establishing an environment that is inviting, engaging, inclusive, and volunteer driven.

Program Manager’s primary role is to provide support, resources, and serve as the point of contact for program participants. The Program Manager is responsible for regular communication with our volunteers and chapter participants, providing key information on our program policies, database tools, training tools and upcoming events. The goal of this role is to support participants and chapter recruitment efforts. This includes hosting virtual and in-person trainings, engagement activities, communicating Best Buddies deadlines and expectations using online platforms, and ensuring participation from chapter advisors and student leaders in the Annual Leadership Conference.

• Bachelor’s degree or 2 years relevant experience in volunteer management (Best Buddies program experience a plus).
• Must be comfortable engaging with people with IDD, including youth and adults.
• Must be adaptable and able to quickly and effectively develop and balance multiple relationships and get results from a variety of people.
• Basic project and time management skills.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Strong initiative, drive for results, and self-assessment skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Clear understanding of multiple communication platforms and proficient use of social media.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Willing and able to travel frequently, use personal cell phone, and work evenings and weekends as necessary to accomplish job responsibilities.
• Access to an automobile with applicable insurance or other reliable transportation.

Programs

• Support chapters through direct and consistent communication using virtual networks, online platforms, and in-person meetings.
• Provide mission-focused guidance and support to chapter members and volunteers to ensure they are working towards overall mission outcomes.
• Provide information on web-based resources and other training opportunities.
• Responsible for tracking all reporting and chapter updates using online platforms.
• Understand and communicate programmatic goals, responsibilities, and risk policies to ensure all volunteers operate within guidelines, including chapter dues, buddy pair matching, and chapter leadership development.
• Track and provide support for volunteers to grow with the organization throughout their academic career and post-secondary, including the Best Buddies Jobs program.
• Manage state citizen matches and support/cultivate corporate chapters.
• Host community trainings to promote awareness and engagement in Best Buddies mission, including but not limited to corporate partner trainings, ambassadors, and e-Buddies trainings.

Marketing

• Work in partnership with the local, state, and national teams to support awareness and promotion of Best Buddies on social media and through other marketing efforts.
• Represent Best Buddies programs through public speaking, community involvement, and other initiatives.
• Support stewardship efforts by providing regular information.