Program Manager, Economic Justice | Community Engagement

R.A.G.E. stands for the Resident Association of Greater Englewood, a Chicago based resident-driven association with nearly 500 members established to build relationships between Englewood's fellow residents, public officials, business owners and community organizations. Our mission is to create tangible solutions and mobilize residents and resources to restore our community. In order to accomplish our mission, it is vital to engage our members, residents and stakeholders through various channels and to continue to grow our reach throughout Greater Englewood while advancing economic justice initiatives.

Summary

The Program Manager for Economic Justice & Community Engagement is responsible for managing and facilitating strategies that promote economic empowerment within Greater Englewood while enhancing R.A.G.E.'s community engagement efforts. This role will plan and supervise initiatives focused on community wealth-building, equitable development, and resident economic power, while ensuring community members are treated as VIPs and remain central to R.A.G.E.'s mission and work. The position requires both tactical implementation of approved strategies and individual contribution to program delivery.

Responsibilities

Economic Justice Leadership:

• Develop, implement, and evaluate economic justice programs and initiatives that address community priorities
• Build partnerships with businesses, financial institutions, policy advocates, and workforce development organizations
• Lead community education efforts around economic rights, opportunities, and wealth-building strategies
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities for economic justice initiatives
• Track developments related to economic opportunities and threats affecting Englewood residents
• Support resident-led advocacy efforts focused on economic equity
• Coordinate with local business owners and entrepreneurs to strengthen Englewood's economic ecosystem
• Document program impact and develop metrics that demonstrate community economic progress

Community Engagement Management:

• Manage and supervise the community engagement process and resident outreach efforts
• Plan and facilitate strategies to recruit and engage community members in R.A.G.E. initiatives
• Monitor and enhance resident participation in programs and activities
• Facilitate community orientations, meetings, and outreach events
• Maintain and update community engagement records and contact databases
• Serve as a primary point of contact for community inquiries and concerns
• Enhance community member experience by developing and maintaining processes for routine engagement
• Champion the value of community participation and resident leadership
• Support the organization of events and activities for existing and prospective community members
• Collect and analyze community engagement data to recommend program improvements
• Approve work assignments for volunteers and consultants supporting community engagement efforts

General Responsibilities:

• Attend R.A.G.E. program meetings and events
• Engage and maintain collaborative relationships with stakeholders, local businesses and other key organizations
• Assist with other R.A.G.E. initiatives as needed
• Stay informed about community resources and events
• Maintain a positive and professional image of R.A.G.E.
• Embody R.A.G.E.'s "Connect, Build, Take Action" philosophy in all work

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field
• Passion for R.A.G.E.'s mission and commitment to resident empowerment
• Demonstrated commitment to economic justice principles and understanding of systemic economic barriers
• Strong sense of commitment to the community of Englewood
• Experience in program management, economic development, and/or membership development
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and work autonomously
• Strong project management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with ability to relate authentically to Englewood residents
• Ability to think creatively while maintaining a professional and resourceful style; willingness to take initiative, manage multiple tasks and projects at a time; and willingness to learn
• Ability to identify, initiate, and trailblaze new processes and opportunities
• Highly organized, self-starting individual who excels in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in Google Workspace, Word, Excel, and a familiarity with CRMs. Proficient with Canva a plus.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

What We Offer:

• The opportunity to be apart of meaningful, resident-driven change
• A collaborative, innovative team environment that values diverse perspectives
• Competitive nonprofit salary and benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Paid time off