Position:  Volunteer Coordinator   

Terms: Full-time, Regular (year-round), Hourly; Hybrid work model (in-person & virtual)  

Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, regular evenings and some weekends required, schedule will vary based on program needs 

Compensation: $41,000-$44,000 annual salary commensurate with experience, group health insurance, IRA match, generous PTO 

Supervised by:  School and Community Programs Manager  

Supervises: Volunteers and interns; may evolve to include staff supervision  

THE ORGANIZATION: The Food Literacy Project’s mission is youth transforming their communities through food, farming and the land. Working toward a vision for a healthy and equitable community where people and places thrive since 2006, FLP engages youth, their families, schools and neighbors in hands-on learning and leadership development experiences with farming and fresh foods at outdoor classrooms. The Food Literacy Project’s values include:  

ENERGY: We are bold and inspired by our community.

ROOTS: We are grounded and purposeful, connected with people and dedicated to sustainably

addressing community needs.

DISCOVERY: We embrace the joy of learning by doing.

CULTIVATION: We bring great care to our work and relationships; we nourish growth in our community, and in turn are nourished ourselves.

ABUNDANCE: We leverage our community’s diverse assets to achieve personal and social change.

To learn more about our commitment to equity, click here: https://foodliteracyproject.org/about/mission-vision/ 

JUSTICE: We pursue fairness and equity.

Job Summary. The Volunteer Coordinator will seek out new volunteers and interns to further the mission of the Food Literacy Project, coordinate their participation, and provide ongoing support and supervision as they engage in FLP’s work. The Volunteer Coordinator will be responsible for the development of best practices and procedures for volunteer and intern onboarding, participation and retention and for working collaboratively with the staff team to provide consistent opportunities for engagement.  

Responsibilities:

  • Develop, maintain, and carry out a comprehensive recruitment, orientation, training, retention, and recognition plan and materials for individual and group volunteers and interns to ensure that all volunteers are thriving and appreciated.  
  • Supervise volunteers and interns as they engage in activities to support the organization.  
  • Develop and maintain strong, positive relationships with partners including other community organizations, universities, etc., ensuring that mutually agreed upon expectations are being met.  
  • Coordinate with other staff in developing and maintaining a comprehensive list of volunteer opportunities  and collaborative partnerships, and ensure that volunteers and interns are supported.  
  • Develop and maintain complete and accurate records including volunteer policies, procedures, position descriptions, standards of conduct and criminal background checks.  
  • Maintain records of volunteer and intern engagement (number of individuals, number of hours, and in-kind contributions of service).  
  • Develop and strengthen relationships with peers in the field and with area volunteer organizations to ensure best practices for volunteer and internship programs.  
  • Represent the Food Literacy Project at community outreach events and proactively seek opportunities for engagement.  
  • Serve as primary point of contact for all volunteer inquiries including, telephone, voicemail, email, and written requests and ensure a timely response. 
  • Coordinate with program team to plan and implement educational activities and opportunities for youth participants, volunteers and interns; provide direct service programs for youth and adults.   
  • Work collaboratively and promote teamwork with staff, volunteers, and stakeholders. 
  • Complete other job duties as assigned, including administrative tasks associated with managing a small nonprofit.

Qualifications:

  • Experience coordinating volunteers, engaging diverse populations and working outdoors; Experience working in and/or with south, west and southwest Louisville communities strongly preferred.  
  • Flexible and adaptable; Possesses a solution-oriented approach.   
  • Thrives in a collaborative environment and establishes and maintains positive, effective working relationships with others; Brings a high level of respect to communication with staff, program participants, volunteers, partners, and stakeholders.   
  • Possesses excellent communication skills (verbal and written) and active listening skills.   
  • Demonstrated ability to be self-directed and organized, set priorities, and manage multiple projects at once.   
  • Cultivates a culture of excellence, reflection, and teamwork among staff and volunteers; Ability to hold team members accountable.    
  • Embraces a high level of responsibility and seeks and accepts direction as appropriate.  
  • Demonstrates pride in work and attention to detail; Maintains accurate records and prepares compelling reports, etc.   
  • Shares a commitment to the Food Literacy Project’s mission and vision. Embodies our core values: energy, roots, discovery, cultivation, abundance, and justice.    
  • Physically able to participate in and lead farm and garden work projects (walking, lifting, kneeling, crouching, etc.) and to work outdoors in all weather conditions.  
  • Experience and adaptability when using a computer and appropriate software (i.e., Microsoft Office Suite, email, Canva, databases, etc.).    
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.  
  • Must pass criminal background check prior to hiring and beginning employment.  
  • Possess a valid driver’s license and access to vehicle.  

Desired but not required 

  • Deep knowledge of food systems and food justice issues.  
  • Fluency in more than one language and/or cross-cultural life experiences.  
  • Previous experience working on an organic, diverse vegetable farm.  

Equal Opportunity Employer.  The Food Literacy Project emphasizes diversity in both our programs and staff, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or status as a veteran in accordance with applicable federal laws. FLP values an equitable and inclusive workplace. Research shows that often women and people from underrepresented groups only apply to jobs for which they meet 100% of the qualifications. FLP is interested in attracting a diverse pool of candidates who bring unique experiences to youth development and community-based work. You need not check every box. If much of this describes you, we encourage you to apply. 

To Apply. Email your resume, a cover letter describing your interest in the Food Literacy Project’s mission and any unique qualifications not reflected in your resume, and 3 professional references to Arabella Paulovich, School and Community Programs Manager, at arabella@foodliteracyproject.org.

Applications will be accepted through January 17, 2025, or until the position is filled.