Volunteer Coordinator

Summary

The Volunteer Coordinator is the heart of Fareground's people-powered work. You will recruit, welcome, train, schedule, and appreciate the volunteers who make our programs possible. You will also identify events and opportunities to build lasting relationships with neighbors, partners, and local organizations so that everyone in our community can participate in and benefit from Fareground.

Status: Part-time, Non-exempt, 6-month contracted position

Schedule: 20 hours per week: On-site Wednesdays and Fridays with some evenings and weekends to support events

Compensation: $30 per hour, billed via invoice

Key Responsibilities

Volunteer Recruitment and Coordination

• Recruit volunteers from across the Hudson Valley, including students, families, local businesses, faith groups, and neighbors with lived experience of food insecurity

• Support the volunteer onboarding and orientation program 

• Manage the volunteer sign-up process and FAQs

• Match volunteers to roles that fit their skills, interests, and availability

• Confirm volunteers for programs and special events, and keep backup lists ready

• Coordinate day-of logistics for events, including volunteer check-in, setup and breakdown, and safety

• Provide training on food safety, dignity-centered service, accessibility, and Fareground's values

• Maintain accurate volunteer records, hours, and communications in our database

• Be a warm, reliable point of contact who makes every volunteer feel welcomed and valued

• Create pathways for volunteers to grow into leadership roles, such as shift leads and program captains

• Help ensure volunteer policies, waivers, and safety practices are current

• Gather regular feedback to improve the volunteer experience

• Address concerns with kindness and fairness, in line with our values

• Support signature fundraisers and events

Community Engagement and Partnerships

• Represent Fareground at community events, tabling opportunities, and community meetings

• Engage neighbors who access our programs and invite their voices into how we operate

• Write and share volunteer needs, event recaps, and stories through our newsletter, website, and social media

• Collect and share volunteer and community impact stories and data to support grant reporting and the annual report

• Collaborate on outreach materials

Qualifications

Required

• 2+ years of experience in volunteer management, community organizing, nonprofit programs, or a related field (lived experience and equivalent volunteer leadership count)

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds

• Strong organizational skills and comfort juggling schedules, logistics, and shifting priorities

• Commitment to Fareground's mission and values, including equity, anti-racism, and mutual aid

• Comfort with technology: email, spreadsheets, scheduling tools, and social media

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work at outdoor and in-person events in all weather

• Reliable transportation and availability for some evening and weekend hours

Preferred

• Experience with volunteer management software or CRM tools

• Experience with restorative justice approaches to conflict

• Bilingual in English and Spanish

• Familiarity with the Hudson Valley food system and local community organizations

• Experience with event coordination and project management

• Food handler or food safety certification (or willingness to obtain)

What Success Looks Like

• A growing, diverse, and engaged volunteer base that reflects the community we serve

• High volunteer retention and satisfaction, with every shift confidently staffed

• Stronger partnerships with local organizations and businesses

• More neighbors feeling a sense of ownership and belonging at Fareground

Why Join Fareground

• Do meaningful work with a values-driven, grassroots organization

• Join a collaborative team and a loyal community of volunteers

• Enjoy flexibility and room to shape the role

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter via email by December 4 with the subject line “Volunteer Coordinator Application.” Applications submitted by November 20 will be prioritized.