Volunteer Executive Director

International Child Advancement (ICA) is seeking a dedicated and visionary individual to serve as our volunteer Executive Director. This role comes at an exciting time in ICA’s journey, as our Founding Executive Director transitions into an advisory capacity after years of dedicated service. The incoming leader will have the opportunity to guide the organization’s next chapter of growth while benefiting from continued mentorship and strong board support.

This is a unique opportunity to lead impactful programs that empower refugee, immigrant, and underserved children in Buffalo, NY, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. You’ll work with a passionate board, oversee meaningful initiatives, and help shape the future of a nonprofit rooted in education, economic empowerment, food security, and mentoring.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy:

• Serve as the primary representative of ICA to stakeholders, including beneficiaries, donors, and the community.
• Work with the Board of Directors to develop and implement the organization’s strategic plan.
• Ensure alignment of all programs and operations with ICA’s mission and vision.

Fundraising & Financial Management:

• Oversee and execute fundraising strategies, including donor engagement, grant writing, and partnerships.
• Oversee the organization’s finances, including budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance.
• Work with the Board to establish plans for future compensation strategies.

Program Oversight & Development:

• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of ICA’s programs locally and internationally.
• Oversee the planning and execution of events, workshops, and other program activities.
• Ensure beneficiaries’ needs are met through culturally sensitive and impactful initiatives.

Community Engagement & Advocacy:

• Build strong relationships with refugees, immigrants, and underserved children in Buffalo.
• Engage with international partner and beneficiaries in the DRC, fostering collaboration and trust.
• Advocate for the needs of vulnerable populations, raising awareness about their challenges.

Operations Management:

• Supervise volunteers, and program coordinators.

Maintain operational efficiency, including managing virtual systems and ensuring compliance with legal requirements.

Education Requirements

Required: Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, business management, social work, education, international development, or a related field.

Required Qualifications

• Proven experience in nonprofit leadership or management.
• Understanding of the challenges faced by refugees, immigrants, and underserved children.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage budgets and fundraising initiatives.
• Resides in Buffalo, NY, with availability for local engagements as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Fluency in French and English (French fluency is not required but is advantageous).
• Previous experience working with vulnerable populations, particularly refugees, immigrants, orphans, or underserved youth.
• Background in event planning, program development, or financial oversight.

Compensation

This is a volunteer role; however, the Executive Director will collaborate with the Board of Directors to develop strategies for future compensation.

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.