Overview
Manager, Volunteer Programs Jobs in Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA at SOUTH COAST BOTANIC GARDEN FOUNDATION INC
South Coast Botanic Garden (SCBG) is a thriving destination for visitors to discover the rejuvenating powers of nature. Determined to provide access to nature to the widest possible audience, the Garden has expanded its services and hosted more visitors than ever before through exhibits and collection upgrades. With the unveiling of the stunning Dorothy and John Bohannon Rose Garden, a show-stopping 400-square foot Living Wall, and the arrival of Hide and Seek, a long-term exhibit of eight remarkable large-scale works of fine art sculpture, the Garden has significantly elevated its presentation of ornamental horticulture. There is even more excitement to come, with a long-range Vision Plan that will reimagine the entire guest experience, including the creation of a 3.5-acre Marilyn and John Long Children and Family Garden scheduled for completion by the end of this year. There has never been a better time to join this dynamic team.
POSITION TITLE
Manager, Volunteer Programs
REPORTING RELATIONSHIP
Reports to Chief Operating Officer
JOB SUMMARY
As the Volunteer Programs Manager, you will play a pivotal role in fostering a vibrant and engaged community of volunteers who support our mission to connect ALL to the wonders of nature. You will lead the growth and success of the volunteer program, working closely with staff and volunteers to build a strong, mission-driven culture rooted in positivity, gratitude and grit. You will also be an advocate for our strategic anchorstelling the story of our unique plant collections, creating approachable and offbeat nature experiences, and celebrating the Gardens legacy of land reclamation.
RESPONSIBILITIES
VOLUNTEER OVERSIGHT
Orient volunteers to increase their understanding of the organization, its guests, its services and the role and responsibilities of volunteers
Work directly with staff to review, assess and constructively manage volunteers and act as a mediator for any concerns or disputes
Partner with other departments to determine and establish volunteer learning objectives
Develop and deliver various types of volunteer trainings based on established learning objectives
Oversee collection and tracking of volunteer data and documents
Ensure volunteer assignments provide meaningful, satisfying work in a community reflective of the core values of the organization
Serve as the point of contact, internally and externally, for the volunteer program, handling all volunteer related communications
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
Continuously improve volunteer program policies and procedures to reflect the evolving needs of the organization
Proactively build awareness of SCBGs volunteer opportunities through community outreach and network engagement
Actively recruit a diverse group of volunteers that reflects the community we serve, fostering inclusivity and broad representation
Develop innovative volunteer opportunities that inspire community connection and align with SCBGs mission
Manage a Staff Liaison training program to support staff members working with volunteers, hosting regular check-ins to maintain clarity and alignment
Set and achieve SMART goals to increase volunteer engagement, number of volunteers, number of volunteer hours and overall impact
Manage and optimize the volunteer database, including database design and architecture (e.g., creating tables, relationships and schemas) to support efficient data tracking and reporting. Ensure database maintenance and optimization, including indexing and performance tuning, to keep data accessible and up-to-date.
Contribute to quarterly Board Reports with updates on the volunteer programs growth and achievements
Prepare and manage the annual volunteer program budget
Foster collaboration between staff and volunteers to create a unified and supportive community
VOLUNTEER CARE
Maintain an inventory of volunteer supplies and coordinate orders as needed
Build community among volunteers through meaningful recognition programs and celebratory events
Retain current and new volunteers through community-building initiatives that foster long-term relationships
Address volunteer concerns with care and focus on fostering cooperation and enthusiasm
Support a culture of appreciation and encouragement, where volunteers feel valued and connected to SCBGs vision
REQUIREMENTS:
Proven track record of managing volunteer programs with a strategic and organized approach
Strong written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills, with an interest in developing public speaking abilities
Exceptional collaboration skills with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships
Effective time management skills, with a commitment to meeting deadlines and balancing multiple tasks
Strategic problem-solving abilities and a solution-oriented mindset
Tenacity in overcoming obstacles and driving initiatives to successful completion
High level of professionalism, confidentiality and approachability
Demonstrated reliability and strong work ethic
Self-motivated and proactive, with a positive attitude and enthusiasm for community engagement
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Suite, phone systems, radio communication and standard office equipment
Experience in database administration, including design, architecture, maintenance and optimization for performance and data integrity
Ability to stand, walk and bend outdoors for consecutive hours at a time
Occasionally required to lift up to 20 pounds
QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelors degree preferred or equivalent experience working for a non-profit
Two years of experience working with or supervising volunteer teams
Position is full-time, non-exempt. Pay rate ranges from $25-$29/hour. Must be available weekdays, some weekday evenings, some holidays and many weekends. Please submit your cover letter, resume and complete application to apply.
The Foundation is dedicated to a practice of diversity, inclusion, access and equity for all employees and visitors.
Title: Manager, Volunteer Programs
Company: SOUTH COAST BOTANIC GARDEN FOUNDATION INC
Location: Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA
