Social Innovation Lead

About Us:

International Child Advancement (ICA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underserved children and orphans to become self-sufficient through education, economic empowerment, and mentorship. Our mission is to break the cycle of poverty and build a brighter future for young people in Buffalo, NY, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Position Overview:

The Volunteer Social Innovation Lead will be responsible for overseeing ICA’s education, entrepreneurship, and career development programs in Buffalo, NY, as well as managing the organization's educational initiatives, food security programs, and economic empowerment efforts in the DRC. This individual will play a pivotal role in expanding our impact in both regions by driving strategic initiatives, fostering partnerships, and ensuring the success of each program.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Program Oversight and Management:
   • Lead and oversee all aspects of ICA’s education, entrepreneurship, and career development programs in Buffalo, NY, ensuring the programs align with organizational goals and community needs.
   • Manage the implementation and progress of educational initiatives (K-12 and university sponsorships), food security, and economic empowerment programs (vocational training) in the DRC.
2. Strategic Planning and Development:
   • Develop and execute strategies to address the needs of underserved youth focusing on breaking the cycle of poverty through education, economic empowerment, entrepreneurship, and career development.
   • Create strategic plans with clear goals, timelines, and outcomes to measure the success of each program.
3. Program Monitoring and Reporting:
   • Ensure timely and accurate reporting from the DRC orphanage and other local partners, tracking progress on education, food security, and economic empowerment initiatives.
   • Review and analyze reports to ensure educational goals and program outcomes are being achieved.
4. Partnership and Sponsorship Management:
   • Identify and cultivate relationships with potential sponsors and partners to support educational initiatives in the DRC.
   • Work with local and international organizations to enhance the sustainability and impact of ICA’s programs.
5. Volunteer Coordination and Support:
   • Coordinate and support volunteers in both Buffalo and the DRC, ensuring they are adequately trained and aligned with program goals.
   • Provide mentorship and guidance to volunteers to ensure they contribute effectively to the success of each program.
6. Community Engagement and Outreach:
   • Engage with the local community in Buffalo and the DRC, raising awareness about ICA’s programs and fostering a sense of ownership and involvement.
   • Organize outreach activities to keep communities connected to and invested in program success.
7. Program Evaluation and Improvement:
   • Conduct regular evaluations of each program, gathering feedback from participants, volunteers, and local partners.
   • Identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to refine and strengthen program impact.
8. Financial Oversight:
   • Assist with managing program budgets, ensuring efficient use of resources to meet program goals.
   • Work with the Executive Director to track fundraising and grant opportunities to sustain program growth.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (education, social work, international development, etc.).
• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in program management, preferably in nonprofit or international development settings.
• Proven experience in community engagement, volunteer management, and partnership development.
• Strong knowledge of education and economic empowerment programs, particularly in underserved regions.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Fluency in French or Swahili is a plus (for DRC programs).

Why ICA?

At ICA, we believe in making a real difference in the lives of underserved children and orphans. As the Social Innovation Lead, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of our programs and the communities we serve. This role offers an exciting opportunity to having a direct impact on the lives of young people work in both Buffalo, NY, and the DRC, while contributing to the global conversation on sustainable development and social equity.