Programs Manager (Volunteer)
Commitment: 10–15 hours per week | Minimum 6 months
Location: Remote
Compensation: Unpaid (Volunteer)
About A Free Bird
A Free Bird is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in New York City. We empower children and teens diagnosed with cancer to explore their artistic passions—whether through art, music, writing, acting, or other creative mediums. Artistic expression is a powerful tool for healing, resilience, and self-expression, and our Programs Department is central to delivering that mission.
Our Programs Department oversees three signature programs—Dream Big, Take Flight, and Fly Free—each designed to connect our young artists with meaningful creative opportunities.
We are urgently seeking a Programs Manager who can lead volunteers, build relationships, and ensure our programs run smoothly and efficiently.
Role Overview
The Programs Manager plays a key leadership role in overseeing day-to-day program operations, managing program volunteers, and ensuring successful delivery of all program activities. This individual will serve as the main point of contact between A Free Bird, partner organizations (such as hospitals, schools, and arts institutions), and program participants.
This role requires strong communication, organization, leadership, and relationship-building skills. It’s ideal for someone who has experience managing teams, coordinating programs, or working in a nonprofit environment.
Key Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Coordination
- Oversee the execution and growth of A Free Bird’s three programs: Dream Big, Take Flight, and Fly Free.
- Ensure programs stay on schedule, goals are met, and volunteers are supported throughout the process.
- Monitor program milestones and report progress to HR and leadership.
Volunteer Management
- Supervise, mentor, and support program volunteers and interns.
- Assign tasks, provide guidance, and ensure volunteers have the tools and information they need.
- Conduct onboarding for new volunteers joining the Programs Department.
Partnership Management
- Build and maintain professional relationships with hospitals, schools, arts organizations, and tutors.
- Initiate outreach to new partner organizations to expand program opportunities.
- Act as the primary liaison between program participants, families, and affiliates.
Program Communications & Strategy
- Collaborate with the Communications Department to enhance program visibility and engagement.
- Communicate program updates, stories, and needs across departments.
- Assist in refining program processes, documentation, and internal workflows.
Reporting & Administration
- Track program activity, usage, and key performance indicators.
- Maintain organized documentation and ensure timely submission of internal reports.
- Provide leadership with insights and recommendations to strengthen program quality.
Qualifications
- 1–2+ years of experience in program management, volunteer management, or nonprofit work
- (internships, jobs, or significant volunteer roles all count)
- Strong leadership and people-management skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Experience developing and maintaining partnerships or stakeholder relationships
- Highly organized and able to manage multiple projects at once
- Comfortable working independently and collaboratively
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and online communication tools
- Familiarity with Mailchimp, Sendinblue, or similar platforms is a plus
- Passion for the mission of A Free Bird and supporting children through creative expression
Additional Information
- This is a remote volunteer role requiring 10–15 hours per week.
- Minimum commitment: 6 Months
- Must have reliable access to a computer, phone, and stable internet.
- Weekly or biweekly check-ins with leadership are required.
If interested, please send your resume to hr@afreebird.org