Community Engagement Coordinator

bgcgarfield; Garfield (NJ); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

bgcgarfield is looking for a Youth Development Professional & Community Engagement Specialist to create a positive environment for youth and drive community engagement initiatives.

This role includes responsibilities like facilitating activities for youth, supporting fundraising events, and conducting community outreach to foster donor relationships. Candidates should have strong interpersonal skills and a passion for youth development.

Qualifications

• Experience working with youth in educational or community-based settings preferred.
• Ability to engage diverse populations and build positive relationships.
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends as needed.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate daily activities such as educational and recreational programs.
• Assist with donor outreach and community engagement.
• Support event planning and execution for fundraising.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Customer service

Fundraising

Event planning

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Summary: The Youth Development Professional & Community Engagement Specialist is responsible for creating a safe, positive, and engaging environment for youth while supporting the Club’s fundraising and community outreach efforts. This position combines direct service to youth with community engagement responsibilities, including donor cultivation, event support, sponsorship outreach, volunteer recruitment, and fundraising initiatives.

The ideal candidate is passionate about youth development, enjoys building relationships within the community, and is committed to helping the Boys & Girls Club fulfill its mission of enabling all young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens.

Essential Youth Development Professional Responsibilities

• Facilitate daily educational, recreational, leadership, arts, STEM, and wellness activities for youth.
• Develop and implement engaging lesson plans and age-appropriate activities aligned with Boys & Girls Club programming.
• Promote positive youth development through mentoring, relationship building, and role modeling.
• Monitor participant behavior and implement behavior management strategies consistent with Club policies.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of all members at all times.
• Maintain accurate attendance records and program documentation.
• Assist with homework help, academic enrichment, and skill-building activities.
• Support special events, field trips, and seasonal programming.
• Maintain program spaces, supplies, and equipment in a clean and organized manner.

Fundraising & Community Engagement Responsibilities

Donor & Sponsorship Outreach

• Assist with identifying and cultivating prospective donors, sponsors, and community supporters.
• Conduct outreach to local businesses regarding sponsorship opportunities, in‑kind donations, and event participation.
• Maintain records of donor contacts, sponsorship commitments, and community partnerships.
• Assist with donor stewardship activities, including thank‑you letters, acknowledgments, and follow‑up communications.

Event Support & Coordination

• Support planning and execution of fundraising events, community events, and special campaigns.
• Recruit volunteers and community participants for fundraising initiatives.
• Assist with event logistics, registration, setup, hospitality, and post‑event follow‑up.
• Promote events through community outreach, social media, flyers, and direct communication.

Fundraising Campaign Support

• Assist with annual giving campaigns, special appeals, and community fundraising initiatives.
• Help secure raffle prizes, auction items, sponsorships, and in‑kind donations.
• Support donor recognition efforts and stewardship activities.
• Represent the Club at community meetings, networking events, and public outreach opportunities.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Complete required reports, attendance records, and program documentation.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
• Adhere to all Boys & Girls Club policies, procedures, and safety requirements.
• Assist with other duties as assigned by Club leadership.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree preferred.
• Experience working with youth in educational, recreational, or community-based settings preferred.
• Experience in customer service, community outreach, fundraising, sales, or event planning preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to engage diverse populations and build positive relationships.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic technology platforms.
• Ability to work evenings and occasional weekends as needed.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to actively participate in youth activities.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to stand, walk, and move throughout the facility for extended periods.

Required Certifications & Clearances

• Criminal Background Check
• Child Abuse Record Information (CARI) Clearance
• CPR/First Aid Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire)