Volunteer and Event Coordinator

United Way of Suwannee Valley; Lake City (FL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A community-focused non-profit organization in Lake City, Florida is seeking a Volunteer and Events Coordinator to manage volunteer recruitment for literacy initiatives and oversee event planning. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong communication and organizational skills, possess proficiency in Microsoft Office and design tools like Canva, and be available for evening and weekend events. This role plays a vital part in building community partnerships and enhancing marketing efforts for various programs.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of relevant professional experience.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build effective relationships.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute events from concept to completion.
• Develop and implement volunteer recruitment strategies.
• Manage social media presence and engage with community partners.

Skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Strong organizational skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and communication tools

Education

High school diploma; bachelor's degree preferred

Tools

Canva

Job description

Position Description

Position Title: Volunteer and Events Coordinator

Date: March 2026

Reports to: Executive Director, United Way of Suwannee Valley

Position Summary

The Volunteer and Events Coordinator is responsible for the recruitment, training, and management of volunteers for United Way’s ReadingPals early literacy initiative, as well as supporting additional volunteer-driven projects. This role places a strong emphasis on developing and executing strategic recruitment plans to engage volunteers who serve kindergarten students in Columbia, Hamilton, and Suwannee Counties.

The coordinator works collaboratively with community partners, including United Way committees to ensure program success. In addition, this position oversees the planning and execution of United Way events and supports the organization’s overall marketing and outreach efforts.

The ideal candidate is a self-starter who demonstrates excellent customer service, strong listening and communication skills, and the ability to build relationships, solicit sponsorships, and work effectively in a team environment.

Key Responsibilities

Event Planning and Execution

• Plan, coordinate, and execute United Way events throughout the year, from concept to completion.
• Secure sponsorships, including cash contributions and in-kind donations.
• Coordinate silent auction procurement and management.

Volunteer Recruitment and Engagement (ReadingPals Program)

• Develop and implement effective volunteer recruitment strategies targeting workplace campaigns, parent-teacher organizations, civic groups, and faith-based communities.
• Conduct training sessions for new and returning volunteers, including topics such as literacy instruction, mentoring best practices, social-emotional learning, curriculum implementation, English language learners, and diversity awareness.
• Provide ongoing stewardship and engagement opportunities to deepen volunteer connection to United Way’s mission.
• Plan and coordinate volunteer activities that support education initiatives.
• Research and maintain relationships with corporate and community partners.
• Develop and distribute promotional materials to support volunteer recruitment.
• Promote ReadingPals through traditional and digital media channels, including social media platforms and email marketing.

Marketing and Communications

• Develop and implement engaging content to enhance brand awareness and promote United Way initiatives.
• Support the execution of communication strategies to ensure consistent messaging and branding.
• Write and distribute press releases and media advisories.
• Manage and grow the organization’s presence across social media platforms, including Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and others.
• Create and maintain content for newsletters, websites, and marketing materials.
• Integrate digital communications into overall marketing efforts.
• Monitor and analyze website and social media metrics to improve performance and engagement.
• Stay informed of best practices within the United Way network.

Volunteer Administration

• Maintain and update the volunteer database, including tracking participation and committee involvement.
• Plan and implement volunteer recognition initiatives, including:
  • Annual Volunteer Appreciation Event.
  • Quarterly volunteer e-newsletters.

General Responsibilities

• Perform additional duties as assigned.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to United Way’s Code of Conduct.
• Adhere to all organizational policies and procedures.
• Contribute to a collaborative team environment and support organizational goals.
• Provide leadership through professionalism, initiative, and knowledge sharing.

Position Relationships

External: General public, volunteers, school personnel, community partners, and vendors.

Internal: Reports to Executive Director; collaborates with United Way staff and volunteers.

Qualifications and Requirements

• High school diploma required, bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) years of relevant professional experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including strong grammar and proofreading abilities (required).
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and design/communication tools such as Canva.
• Demonstrated ability to meet and exceed goals.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain effective relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and decision-making.
• Willingness to actively support and participate in United Way programs and events.
• Availability to work evenings and weekends as needed, with a minimum expectation of two (2) times per month.