Program Coordinator

Buddy Box Connection; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 29,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Buddy Box Connection in Columbus, Ohio is seeking a Program Coordinator to support the day-to-day operations of the Buddy Box program. The role coordinates logistics, works closely with schools and community partners, volunteers, and maintains program records and data.

The ideal candidate is organized and dependable, collaborative, and passionate about helping children experiencing food insecurity. This in-person, full-time role requires lifting up to 30 pounds and occasional evening or weekend

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; associate degree preferred.
• Experience in nonprofit, program coordination, community engagement, education, or related field preferred.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with schools, partners, and volunteers.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate day-to-day logistics of the Buddy Box program.
• Work with schools and partners to ensure smooth delivery and programming.
• Coordinate Buddy Box deliveries, distributions, and related activities.
• Maintain program calendars and delivery schedules.
• Monitor needs and identify efficiency improvements.
• Ensure policies, procedures, and safety guidelines are followed.
• Monitor inventory and supplies.
• Schedule and train volunteers; track participation and records.
• Support events, fundraising, and community engagement as needed.
• Collaborate with staff and partners; communicate needs and successes to leadership.

Skills

Organization

Time management

Written communication

Verbal communication

Google Workspace

Microsoft Office

Volunteer coordination

Nonprofit experience

Relationship building

Education

High school diploma

Associate degree preferred

Tools

Google Workspace

Microsoft Office

Job description

Program Coordinator- Buddy Box Connection

Position Type: Full Time
Reports To: Executive Director
Location: Columbus, Ohio, In-Person

About Buddy Box Connection:
Buddy Box Connection is a 501 c 3 non- profit organization whose mission is to bridge the weekend hunger gap for children in our community. Our signature program, the Buddy Box program, provides food to children facing food insecurity on the weekends when they do not have access to the breakfast and lunch provided by their schools.

The Program Coordinator supports the day-to-day operations of the organization’s Buddy Box program. This position coordinates program logistics, works closely with school and community partners, coordinates volunteers, maintains program records and collects program data.

The ideal candidate is organized, dependable, collaborative, and passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of children experiencing food insecurity.

Key Responsibilities Include:

Program Coordination

• Coordinate the day-to-day logistics of the Buddy Box program.
• Work with schools, community partners, and other program sites to ensure programming and deliveries operate smoothly.
• Coordinate Buddy Box deliveries, distributions, and related program activities.
• Maintain program calendars and Buddy Box delivery schedule.
• Monitor program needs and identifies opportunities to improve efficiency.
• Ensure program policies, procedures, and safety guidelines are followed.
• Monitor food inventory and program supplies.

School & Community Partnerships

• Serve as a primary point of contact for designated school site coordinators at partner schools.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with school staff, community organizations, and other program partners.
• Communicate regularly with partners regarding program schedules, participation, needs, and updates.
• Assist with outreach to identify new program opportunities and community partnerships.

Volunteer Coordination

• Schedule, communicate with, and train volunteers involved in program activities.
• Prepare volunteers for Buddy Box packing events, distribution, and other program responsibilities.
• Help create a welcoming and positive volunteer experience.
• Track volunteer participation and maintain volunteer records.

Events & Special Projects

• Assist with Buddy Box Connection events, food distributions, volunteer activities, and community outreach.
• Support Executive Director in fundraising and community engagement events as needed.
• Assist with special projects and organizational initiatives as needed related to program growth and impact.

Team Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with Buddy Box Connection staff, volunteers, school and community partners.
• Communicate program needs, challenges, and successes to the Executive Director.
• Contribute ideas and solutions that strengthen Buddy Box Connection’s program and operations.
• Represent Buddy Box Connection professionally and positively within the community.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; associate degree preferred.
• Previous experience in nonprofit, program coordination, community engagement, education, social services, or a related field preferred.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with schools, community partners, and volunteers.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Comfortable working independently while also collaborating as part of a small team.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace or Microsoft Office.
• Experience with volunteer coordination and/or management is a plus.
• A genuine commitment to Buddy Box Connection’s mission to bridge the weekend hunger gap for Columbus area children.

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry boxes and program supplies weighing up to approximately 30 pounds.
• Ability to travel locally to schools, program sites, community partners, and events as needed.
• Flexible schedule with some evening or weekend commitments for events or program activities.

Compensation & Schedule

• Full-time: Approximately 40 hours per week.
• Non- Exempt, Hourly: $21-24 per hour, to commensurate with experience.
• Schedules may vary based on program needs.

Buddy Box Connection is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other status protected by law.