Background:  

Yachad New England, a regional division of Yachad/The National Jewish Council for Disabilities, a division of the Orthodox Union has an exciting opportunity for energetic, independent and highly organized individuals to join our staff as a Program Coordinator.  Our goal is to provide inclusive social and recreational programs to children, youth and adults with disabilities and special needs, providing fun, friends and Jewish community experiences.   

Position Summary:  

Program Coordinators have direct oversight of a variety of Yachad social, recreational programs and events, and advanced supervisory and administrative roles. The ideal candidates will have keen attention to detail, program design skills, and knowledge of adult learning pedagogy. The ability to prioritize and complete multiple tasks in a skillful and timely fashion, while embracing a deep commitment to the philosophy of inclusion is key. Experience with disability issues is preferred, including camp, synagogue, or school-based experience. Individuals must also demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, manage financial data, maintain records, and utilize Yachad’s various online systems for tracking information. Data tracking and statistical analysis is also required, as well as presentation skills with PowerPoint, excel etc. The Program Coordinator is expected to maintain confidentiality and exhibit discretion and professionalism in all activities. This is a full-time position requiring some travel and work on evenings and some Sundays. 

Responsibilities:  

  • Supervise several staff teams in the design and implementation of creative social/recreational weekly program series throughout the year. 
  • Develop overall program goals and objectives and supervise the training and implementation of them with staff teams. 
  • Supervise staff in creating special events that integrate individuals with disabilities into the Jewish community and lifecycle events throughout the year, including working in partnership with other organizations. 
  • Manage program outreach to parents and participants, and prospective participants. 
  • Management of overall program/event administration including- space, calendar, food, speakers/guests, professional staff, volunteers, and vendors.  
  • Management of the budget for programs and events within your portfolio, including information reporting and presentation of statistical analysis 
  • Oversee member/and program documentation as required and maintain records of activities including submitting weekly reports, receipts, and reimbursement forms into Yachad’s database. 
  • Participate in Yachad coordinator meetings, all staff meetings, and individual supervisory meetings. 
  • Hold weekly scheduled team meetings for programs/events in your portfolio and regular 1:1 supervisory meetings with program staff under your supervision.  
  • Implement social and recreational programs ensuring safety, fostering friendships and promoting socialization between Yachad members.  
  • Assist individuals with a wide range of disabilities, including 1:1 at programs as needed, and may be required to provide personal hygiene support. 
  • Serve as a role model for staff in developing expected behaviors and assists in developing interactive skills.  
  • Assesses/assists in the evaluation of members in identifying their interests, abilities and needs. 
  • Provides crisis intervention as needed. 
  • Serves as an ambassador to the Jewish community and other human services agencies, promoting Yachad’s mission and commitment to Torah values. 
  • Develop relationships with key community leaders, parents, clergy, school officials, local stakeholders, area social service agencies and Yachad members that will encourage the integration of Yachad members and the community 
  • Participate in regionwide programs and activities throughout the year, including special events such as holiday celebrations, fundraising events and the Yachad New England Gala. 
  • There may be opportunities to participate in national Yachad activities organized by other regions or headquarters. 

 

 

Qualifications and Skills: 

  • BA required, MA degree in education, communal service or social work is preferred. Social workers or mental health professionals are encouraged to apply. 
  • Understanding of Jewish values and practice.  
  • Preferably the candidate has experience with individuals with disabilities and special needs.    
  • Demonstrated strength in developing relationships with diverse groups and creating interesting, engaging and developmentally appropriate programs. 
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills, attention-to-detail, accuracy, and ability to meet deadlines. 
  • Ability to assess a situation and identify steps to support staff and people served. 
  • Ability to work collaboratively and independently.  
  • Ability to manage purchasing of supplies, food and equipment and maintaining invoices, record keeping, tracking receipts and program costs.  
  • Knowledge of word, excel, powerpoint, zoom, and other online or database tools.  Willingness to learn new Yachad database and online apps. 
  • High energy, optimistic, creative and passionate about making a difference in the future of the Jewish community. 
  • Must be able to be CPR/First Aid certified within 90 days of hire 
  • Must pass background and reference checks