Volunteer Program Lead

Position Overview

The Volunteer Program Team Lead plays a key role in supporting the Chief Operating Officer (COO) to enhance the volunteer experience at Dog Star Rescue. This position helps to oversee initiatives that strengthen volunteer engagement, education, recruitment, appreciation, and communication. The Program Lead manages the Volunteer Team and ensures that Dog Star Rescue’s volunteer program operates efficiently, effectively, and in alignment with the organization’s values.

Key Responsibilities

Program Development & Execution

• Collaborate with the COO to develop and implement initiatives that enhance volunteer engagement, education, recruitment, and retention.
• Manage the execution of volunteer-related projects and initiatives, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and priorities.
• Work with the COO to identify, prioritize, and track opportunities for improving the volunteer experience.

Volunteer Team Management

• Lead and coordinate the Volunteer Team, including scheduling and facilitating team meetings.
• Provide guidance, resources, and support to Volunteer Coordinators to ensure smooth operations and effective communication.
• Promote a positive and inclusive volunteer culture across all teams and events.

Volunteer Communication & Resources

• Manage volunteer-wide communications, including sending key announcements and updates.
• Maintain and updates volunteer resources such as job descriptions, manuals, policies, and training materials.
• Oversee the volunteer contact list and related records within Dog Star IT systems (e.g., DonorView)

Volunteer Conduct & Compliance

• Help triage volunteer issues, including conduct concerns, in collaboration with the COO, Executive Director, and relevant team leads.
• Manage and maintain the Volunteer Code of Conduct, ensuring it is communicated and upheld.
• Periodically review and update the volunteer contract to reflect current policies and best practices.

Training & Education

• Coordinate and manage volunteer training sessions and educational opportunities.
• Collaborate with department leads to identify training needs and deliver effective onboarding and continuing education.

Qualifications

Required:

• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Experience working with or managing volunteers.
• Ability to handle sensitive issues with discretion and professionalism.
• Comfort with technology and volunteer management systems (e.g., DonorView or similar platforms).
• Passion for Dog Star Rescue’s mission and the welfare of animals.

Preferred:

• Previous leadership or coordination experience in a nonprofit or volunteer-driven organization.
• Experience developing and implementing volunteer engagement strategies.
• Strong writing skills for crafting volunteer communications and resources.

Benefits

• Play a key role in creating joyful, memorable events that change dogs’ and people’s lives.
• Be part of a supportive, passionate, dog-loving community.
• Gain hands-on experience in event planning and volunteer leadership.
• See the immediate impact of your work at events filled with wagging tails and happy people.

Time Commitment per month

10 – 20 hours

Working conditions

In-person and remote opportunity. Access to a laptop, tablet, internet, and the phone required. In-person attendance at adoption, or other, events is required on a regular basis.

Reports to: COO