The Dream Program--Executive Director

The Dream Program

On-site, Work must be performed in or near Ocean Springs, MS

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Details

Job Type:

Part Time

Start Date:

October 5, 2026

Application Deadline:

September 30, 2026

Education:

4-Year Degree Required

Experience Level:

Director

Salary:

USD $20,000 - $25,000 / year

While a salary is offered, the position relies primarily on a strong passion for the mission of the Dream Program.

Cause Areas:

Arts & Music, Disability, Sports & Recreation, Volunteering

Description

The Dream Program Executive Director Top Qualifications

Passion for the Mission
- Demonstrated commitment to improving the lives of individuals with special needs and their families.
- Understanding of person-centered services and inclusion.
Executive Leadership Experience
- Proven success leading a nonprofit, government agency, healthcare organization, or similar organization.
- Ability to develop and execute strategic plans.
Fundraising and Resource Development
- Experience securing grants, corporate sponsorships, major gifts, and fundraising event support.
- Ability to cultivate and maintain donor relationships.
Financial Management
- Experience developing and managing budgets.
- Knowledge of financial reporting, internal controls, and nonprofit fiscal accountability.
Board Relations
- Ability to work effectively with a board of directors.
- Experience supporting board governance, strategic planning, and policy development.
Staff Leadership
- Demonstrated ability to recruit, develop, supervise, and retain talented staff and volunteers.
- Strong team-building and mentoring skills.
Knowledge of Special Needs Services
- Familiarity with programs serving individuals with intellectual, developmental, physical, or other disabilities.
- Understanding of accessibility, inclusion, and community-based services.
Community Engagement
- Strong public speaking and networking skills.
- Ability to build partnerships with schools, healthcare providers, businesses, civic organizations, and government agencies.
Communication Skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication.
- Ability to inspire donors, volunteers, staff, families, and community stakeholders.
Strategic Vision
- Ability to identify opportunities for organizational growth and sustainability.
- Experience setting measurable goals and evaluating outcomes.
Program Oversight
- Experience evaluating programs to ensure quality, effectiveness, and compliance with organizational goals.
Integrity and Ethical Leadership
- Demonstrates honesty, transparency, accountability, and sound judgment.
- Maintains confidentiality and promotes a culture of trust.

Preferred Qualifications

- Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in nonprofit management, business administration, public administration, social work, education, or a related field preferred.
- Five to ten years of progressively responsible leadership experience.
- Experience with grant writing and grant administration.
- Knowledge of nonprofit laws, regulations, and best practices.
- Familiarity with risk management and human resources.

Personal Characteristics

- Compassionate and empathetic.
- Visionary and innovative.
- Collaborative and approachable.
- Organized and results-oriented.
- Resilient and adaptable.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- High emotional intelligence.
- Positive ambassador for the organization.

The strongest candidate will combine a heart for the mission with the business acumen to ensure the organization's long-term financial health and growth, while inspiring confidence among staff, volunteers, donors, families, and the board of directors.

Benefits

There are no benefits associated with this position.

Level of Language Proficiency

English

Location

On-site

3827 Bienville Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS 39564, USA
Suites 1-2

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Instructions:

Executive Director Job Description--this is what you'll be doing:

Conduct the day-to-day business of the Dream Program
Represent the Program in public discussions/interviews/speaking engagements
Implement the policies and procedures of the Program as prescribed by the Board of Directors in a written job description
Be responsible for the operation of the Program Office
Ensure application(s) for any certificate(s) required by any federal or state statute(s) is/are filed
Be the official custodian of all records of the Program. This authority can be delegated
Monitor the performance, progress and results of various Committee activities
Provide the Board of Directors with reports regarding the status of Program and financial situations as requested
Provide direction and leadership to the formulation and achievement of the Program philosophy, mission, and its annual goals and objectives
Partner with the Board of Directors to develop and implement policies, procedures and long-range strategic plans
Attend and conduct Board of Director meetings in a non-voting capacity
Oversee administrative, financial and Program operations
In conjunction with the Treasurer, develop and administer the annual budget
Pursue and secure additional revenue sources through a variety of fund-raising mechanisms consistent with the mission statement of the Program. Search for potential grants; develop and submit grant applications
Maintain close working relationships with key donors, community leaders, civic organizations and leaders of other non-profits in the area
Develop and coordinate an active volunteer program
Ensure information contained on the Program’s website is accurate and current
Provide reports to the Board of Directors citing achievements and progress
Develop and maintain an annual schedule for all Program activities and events. Coordinate with local support officials as required to secure activity/event locations
Ensure the availability of sufficient resources (personnel, equipment, facilities) to support Program activities/events
Facilitate and manage the growth of the Program by leveraging existing information outlets (Program website, social media, local news media) to broadcast and showcase the mission of the Dream Program