Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from Best Buddies International
Job overview
The Program Manager at Best Buddies International drives the mission by managing volunteer-based Friendship Programs to create inclusive communities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Responsibilities and impact
The Program Manager supports chapters through communication, provides guidance to volunteers, manages data and reporting, hosts trainings, promotes awareness via marketing efforts, supports fundraising events, and ensures compliance with organizational policies.
Compensation and benefits
The salary is $43,000 with a comprehensive benefits program including financial security, health and wellness, and time off.
Experience and skills
Candidates need a bachelor's degree or 2 years of relevant volunteer management experience, strong communication skills, adaptability, project management skills, proficiency with social media and Microsoft Office, and must be comfortable working with people with IDD and willing to travel and work flexible hours.
Work environment and culture
Best Buddies International values diversity, equity, inclusion, and fosters an inclusive environment dedicated to empowering people with IDD and supporting volunteers.
Company information
Best Buddies International is a nonprofit dedicated to ending isolation of people with IDD through friendship, employment, leadership, and inclusive living programs globally.
Unique job features
This role involves both virtual and in-person engagement, frequent travel, and working evenings and weekends to support volunteer-driven programs and community inclusion.
Company overview
Best Buddies International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Founded in 1989 by Anthony K. Shriver, the organization has grown to operate in all 50 U.S. states and over 50 countries worldwide. Best Buddies generates revenue through fundraising events, corporate partnerships, grants, and donations. A key historical milestone includes the expansion of their programs to include e-Buddies, a virtual friendship program, and the Best Buddies Jobs program, which secures competitive, integrated employment for people with IDD.
How to land this job
Position your resume to highlight experience in volunteer management, community engagement, and program coordination, emphasizing your ability to support and empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Focus on showcasing strong communication skills, adaptability, project management, and proficiency with online platforms and social media, as these are critical for managing Best Buddies chapters and volunteer networks effectively.
Apply through multiple platforms including Best Buddies International's official career page, LinkedIn, and nonprofit job boards to maximize your chances of getting noticed for the Program Manager role.
Connect on LinkedIn with current Program Managers, Deputy Directors, or other staff within the State Operations and Programs department at Best Buddies International. Use ice breakers like commenting on recent Best Buddies initiatives or asking about their experience working with IDD communities to start a genuine conversation.
Optimize your resume for ATS by including keywords from the job description such as 'volunteer management,' 'community engagement,' 'program coordination,' 'communication skills,' 'social media,' 'Microsoft Office,' and 'project management' to ensure it passes initial screenings.
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