Volunteer and Events Manager

Position Title: Volunteer and Events Manager

Reports To: Chief Operating Officer

Organizational Overview:

Adaptive Sports Connection (ASC) is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1992 and located in Columbus, Ohio. Dedicated to serving Veterans, children, and adults with disabilities across Ohio through sports, outdoor, and therapeutic recreation, ASC is an active member of Move United. The organization’s mission is to break through limitations with adaptive innovation, ensuring people of all abilities, the health benefits, freedom, and sense of belonging from recreation and outdoor experiences.

Position Description:

The Volunteer and Events Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the volunteer program at Adaptive Sports Connection, ensuring a seamless, engaging, and rewarding experience for volunteers. This role will focus on implementing the Volunteer Journey Map, from recruitment and onboarding to engagement, retention, and advocacy. Additionally, this role will lead the logistics and volunteer coordination of events, ensuring the delivery of high-impact experiences for participants and supporters. The Volunteer and Events Manager will work closely with leadership, staff, and community partners to enhance volunteer involvement, ensuring their contributions align with the organization’s mission and impact. 

Key Responsibilities:

Awareness & Recruitment

• Develop and implement strategic marketing campaigns using social media, newsletters, and community outreach to attract potential volunteers.
• Foster relationships with schools, universities, corporations, and community groups to build a diverse and engaged volunteer base.
• Ensure the VolunteerHub management platform is prominently promoted on the website with clear calls to action for sign-ups.
• Create compelling recruitment materials, including testimonials, videos, and FAQs highlighting volunteer opportunities.

Sign-Up & Onboarding

• Manage the VolunteerHub registration process, ensuring a user-friendly experience for new volunteers.
• Develop an engaging onboarding program, including orientation sessions (virtual or in-person) that introduce volunteers to the mission, vision, and values of the organization.
• Provide a Volunteer Handbook outlining expectations, safety protocols, and the rewards program.
• Organize role-specific training to equip volunteers with the necessary skills for working with participants or managing adaptive equipment.

Engagement & Communication

• Maintain regular communication with volunteers through monthly newsletters, automated reminders, and social media groups.
• Utilize VolunteerHub for scheduling, updates, and post-event feedback requests.
• Facilitate opportunities for volunteer networking and connection, such as private Facebook groups or Slack channels.
• Implement feedback mechanisms, such as surveys and listening sessions, to continuously improve the volunteer experience.

Rewards & Retention

• Establish a Volunteer Recognition Program, including a points-based system where hours volunteered translate into incentives such as branded merchandise, gift cards, or event tickets.
• Organize annual appreciation events to recognize top contributors and highlight volunteer impact.
• Send thank-you messages and highlight volunteers through “Volunteer of the Month” features.
• Offer professional development opportunities, including leadership roles and workshops, to enhance engagement and retention.

Impact & Advocacy

• Share impact data and personal success stories to demonstrate how volunteers’ efforts improve lives.
• Encourage volunteers to become advocates by offering referral rewards and fundraising opportunities.
• Equip volunteers with advocacy tools (e.g., talking points, brochures) to spread awareness and recruit others.
• Involve volunteers in strategic planning discussions to foster a deeper connection to the mission.

Event Logistics & Volunteer Coordination

• Plan and execute logistics for Adaptive Sports Connection events, ensuring all volunteer roles are properly staffed and well-coordinated.
• Develop event schedules, assign tasks, and provide on-site support to ensure smooth event execution.
• Work closely with program staff to identify volunteer needs for each event and create a seamless integration of volunteers into event operations.
• Capture post-event feedback from volunteers and participants to improve future event planning and execution.

Time Allocation:

• 50% Internal Operations: Managing volunteer communications, scheduling, and program development.
• 50% In the Field: Supporting volunteers directly at events, ensuring smooth operations, and fostering relationships.

This is not a remote position.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Volunteer Management, Sport Management, Community Development, Nonprofit Administration, or Human Resources Management.
• Minimum two years of relevant work experience in volunteer coordination or program management.
• Preferred certification: Certified in Volunteer Administration (CVA).
• Must have reliable transportation for travel to various event locations.

Skills and Attributes for Success:

• Demonstrated experience in volunteer recruitment, engagement, and program execution.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to inspire and motivate volunteers.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, schedules, and program logistics.
• Experience in event planning and logistics, ensuring smooth coordination of volunteers and resources.
• Problem-solving abilities to address challenges and improve volunteer operations.
• Ability to build community partnerships and cultivate meaningful volunteer relationships.

Bonus Skills:

• Experience in adaptive sports, including skiing, paddling, cycling, and soccer.
• Background working with diverse populations and individuals with disabilities.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary: $55,000 - $65,000, commensurate with experience.
• Benefits: Two weeks of paid vacation, eight sick days, nine holidays, and employer-sponsored health insurance.