Director of Volunteer Programs

LAWYERS FOR CHILDREN AMERICA

JOB OPENING

DIRECTOR OF VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS

Lawyers for Children America is a lead child advocacy organization protecting the rights of children who are victims of abuse, abandonment, and neglect by providing quality pro bono legal representation and collaborating for systemic change to improve the lives of children. LFCA recruits practicing attorneys who donate their time to represent children in the child welfare system. The children we represent are ages 0-18, are part of the DCF system, and are often in foster care. Our volunteer attorneys appear on their behalf in proceedings related to custody, termination of parental rights, social services, educational supports, and more.

COVID and our need for attorneys is greater than ever. LFCA is at an inflection point where, if we are successful LFCA’s attorneys achieve extraordinary outcomes. Our caseload has more than doubled since in growing our volunteer attorney base, we will be able to grow our services.

Position Overview

The Director of Volunteer Programs is a 30-hour/week, flexible position, responsible for driving the growth and engagement of the organization's volunteer attorney network. The position may also assume other legal and administrative tasks as needed. This role focuses on strategic outreach, program development, and volunteer satisfaction. The ideal candidate is a highly organized, outgoing attorney with strong communication skills and a passion for public interest law. The successful candidate will work with a small team of 2.5 FTEs and should enjoy hands-on, grassroots work. The position is based in Hartford, with remote work is possible. The candidate will be responsible for accessing all parts of the state for in-person meetings.

Key Responsibilities

• Volunteer Recruitment, Training & Support: Develop and execute an annual recruitment plan for pro bono attorneys. This includes the current group of approximately 150 active volunteers and recruitment/engagement of 50+ new volunteers annually. Build, cultivate, and manage active relationships with private law firms, corporate legal departments, and local bar associations (e.g., the Connecticut Bar Association). Successfully recruit, train, and support volunteers, including a program of ongoing education. Represent LFCA at bar association events, CLEs, and law firm pro bono committee meetings. Create materials and processes to support recruitment.

• Program Management & Compliance: Maintain a relational database to track volunteers, volunteer hours, case outcomes, and organizational partnerships. Ensure that services comply with program requirements. Prepare and share data with funders, partners, and volunteers.

• Volunteer Recognition: Assist with volunteer recognition activities, including annual awards, appreciation events, and accomplishment announcements to promote continued engagement.

• Case Management: Where needed, support current pro bono caseload by responding to volunteer attorney inquiries, supporting case research needs, and taking on cases (alone or in partnership).

Reporting Relationship

The Director of Volunteer Programs will report to the Executive Director and will work in a small team comprised of two full-time attorneys, one part-time development associate, and several contracted consultants. Flexibility and an adaptable skill set are required.

Competencies

• Exceptional public speaking, networking, and presentation skills. Strong proficiency with legal case management software and tracking metrics.
• Communications expertise. Ability to create and deploy high-quality communications across various platforms and to design and implement a communications plan.
• Demonstrated ability to recruit volunteers and build a program of engagement.
• Knowledge of CRM system software (such as Bloomerang), the full Microsoft suite of products, and communication platforms.
• Knowledge of the Connecticut landscape, including law firms, employers, the Department of Children and Families, the Office of the Chief Public Defender, youth/family social service agencies, and Connecticut legal services.
• Self-motivated, collaborative, and highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously.

What Success Looks Like

The successful candidate will create and execute a comprehensive volunteer attorney recruitment program that increases the number of volunteers by 30-60% over the next two years. The program will be carefully developed to ensure regular communication with and engagement of law firms, corporate legal departments, and other feeder organizations. Volunteer trainings will increase and be held in new, more convenient ways. Volunteers will be supported through ongoing education, resources, and personal coaching. Volunteer achievements will be celebrated regularly. LFCA’s volunteer infrastructure will be built out, including tools for data collection, legal resource, and communications.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Education: Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from an ABA-accredited law school.
• Licensure: Active member in good standing of the state Bar (or eligible to be admitted promptly via waiver/reciprocity).
• Experience: 3-5+ years of legal practice, preferably with experience in child protection law, public interest law, legal aid, litigation, or prior pro bono coordination.
• Travel: The ability to travel throughout Connecticut to meet with partners and volunteers. Personal transportation required.

Compensation

Compensation is commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits package includes health insurance, dental insurance, and 401k (no employer matching).

Equal Opportunity Statement

LFCA is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and participants.