Director, Volunteer Engagement

The Director of Volunteer Engagement will lead the strategic vision, development, and execution of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago's volunteer program. This role oversees all aspects of volunteer engagement across the Association's 14 community hubs, 5 camps, and partner sites, ensuring alignment with the YMCA's mission to strengthen communities through meaningful service and connection.

The Director will be responsible for enhancing existing volunteer initiatives, developing new opportunities, and cultivating partnerships with individuals, corporations, and community organizations to expand the Y's impact. This includes fostering a culture of hospitality and inclusion, ensuring all volunteers feel welcomed and valued, and promoting long-term engagement.

In addition, the Director will oversee the volunteer portal on the YMCA's website, lead the development of key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure volunteer impact, and provide regular analysis and reporting on volunteer metrics. This position plays a critical role in ensuring that volunteer programs are not only satisfying and inclusive but also effective in advancing the YMCA's mission and delivering measurable community outcomes.

This position reports to the Vice President, Community Engagement and Operations and may include direct managing Volunteer Coordinators or site-based volunteer liaisons.

The salary range for this position is $80,000- $100,000.00 (commensurate with experience and qualifications).

Our staff is the Y's greatest asset. Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that is essential to the contribution and positive impact in our communities, which is why we offer Y employees numerous perks and benefits, including:

• We offer salaries that reflect your skills, experience, and the value you bring to our team.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans for eligible employees, along with access to wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
• Generous paid time off (PTO), including paid holidays. We also offer flexible work hours to help you balance your personal and professional life.
• 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service to help you plan for your future.
• Opportunities for continuous learning through workshops and training programs.
• A supportive work environment that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels welcome and respected.
• Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.

Scope of Responsibilities

Program Leadership & Strategy

• Develop and implement a comprehensive volunteer engagement strategy that aligns with the YMCA's mission and strategic goals.
• Expand volunteer opportunities across all YMCA locations and program areas, including youth development, health and wellness, customer experience, and community outreach.
• Evaluate and enhance existing volunteer programs by assessing volunteer satisfaction, retention, and the overall impact and effectiveness of the programs. Ensure that volunteer efforts align with and advance the YMCA's mission and strategic objectives.
• Develop and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure volunteer impact on program goals and community outcomes. Provide regular analysis and design reports on volunteer metrics to inform strategy and improve retention across community hubs.

Volunteer Management

• Oversee the recruitment, onboarding, training, and recognition of individual and group volunteers.
• Maintain and improve systems for volunteer tracking, scheduling, and reporting.
• Oversee the volunteer portal on the YMCA of Metro Chicago's website, ensuring it is user-friendly, up-to-date, and effectively supports volunteer engagement.
• Foster a culture of hospitality and inclusion to ensure all volunteers feel welcomed, valued, and connected to the YMCA's mission from their first interaction through long-term engagement.
• Implement practices and training that promote a warm, respectful, and inclusive environment for volunteers of all backgrounds and abilities.
• Ensure compliance with all background check and safety protocols in collaboration with Human Resources and Risk Management

Community & Corporate Engagement

• Cultivate and manage relationships with corporate partners, community organizations, and civic groups to develop meaningful volunteer partnerships.
• Lead the planning and execution of large-scale volunteer events, including Produce Days, Healthy Kids Day, Halloween at the Y, and Back to School initiatives.
• Represent the YMCA at community events and meetings to promote volunteerism and partnership opportunities.

Team Collaboration & Support

• Collaborate with Community Hub Executive Directors, Facilities, and Program Directors to identify volunteer needs and match volunteers to appropriate roles.
• Provide leadership and guidance to staff involved in volunteer coordination at local sites.
• Support the Associate Board and other leadership volunteer groups in their engagement and fundraising efforts.

Marketing & Communications

• Partner with Marketing and Communications teams to develop campaigns and materials that promote volunteer opportunities and celebrate volunteer impact.
• Create compelling stories and reports that highlight the value of volunteer contributions to stakeholders and funders.

Innovation & Trends

• Stay current with national trends in volunteerism and integrate innovative practices to enhance volunteer engagement and program effectiveness.

Minimum & Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Human Resources, or a related field is preferred. Candidates without a bachelor's degree will be considered with equivalent experience in volunteer management, nonprofit leadership, or a related area.
• 5+ years of experience in volunteer management, community engagement, or nonprofit leadership.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with a passion for community building.
• Experience with CRM or volunteer management software is a plus. Salesforce experiences is especially desirable.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed; travel within the Chicago area required.
• Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications within 90 days of hire.
• Commitment to the mission and values of the YMCA.

Child Abuse Prevention - Supports the YMCA's commitment to child abuse prevention by:

• Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor.
• Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children.
• Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor.
• Completing all child abuse prevention training as required.