Program Coordinator - Youth Business Development Program

Job Title: Program Coordinator – Feeding Our Future Youth Program

Location: Tacoma, WA (Onsite)

Reports to: Executive Director

Employment Type: Full-time 

Job Overview:

The Program Coordinator for the Feeding Our Future Program will oversee the development and implementation of a comprehensive program designed to support at-risk BIPOC youth. The program connects youth with BIPOC farmers participating in the BIPOC HUB Program to learn sustainable farming practices, grow culturally relevant foods, Black food sovereignty, and develop their own microenterprise agricultural businesses. The Program Coordinator will work with the participating farms to coordinate educational activities and mentorship opportunities, as well as collaborate with external contractors for business services, technical assistance, and self-esteem-building workshops. This role plays a key part in empowering youth through agriculture and entrepreneurship.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Coordination:

·       Oversee the day-to-day operations of the Feeding Our Future program, ensuring all activities align with the program's goals and objectives.

·       Coordinate training sessions, farming workshops, and educational activities related to sustainable agriculture and microenterprise development.

·       Manage relationships with BIPOC farmers in the BIPOC HUB to facilitate hands-on learning and mentorship opportunities for youth participants.

·       Coordinate with other key MADF staff that connect to this program and/or the BIPOC HUB program.

·       Ensure program participants receive technical assistance, self-esteem building, and business services from external contractors.

Youth Engagement and Support:

·       Serve as the primary point of contact for youth participants, providing guidance, support, and encouragement throughout their engagement in the program.

·       Develop individualized plans for youth to support their business development, skill-building, and personal growth.

·       Foster a positive, inclusive, and empowering environment that encourages youth to develop self-confidence, leadership skills, and entrepreneurial mindsets.

Collaboration with External Partners:

·       Coordinate with external contractors to deliver business services, technical assistance, and mentorship programs tailored to the needs of BIPOC youth entrepreneurs.

·       Build partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and community stakeholders to enhance the program’s resources and opportunities.

·       Ensure regular communication with contractors and partners to ensure seamless service delivery and monitor the quality of external services.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

·       Track the progress of youth participants and document program outcomes, including skills developed, businesses launched, and microgreens or other culturally relevant foods grown.

·       Implement program evaluation tools to assess the impact and effectiveness of the program and make necessary improvements.

·       Prepare regular reports on program achievements, challenges, and participant progress for internal review and external reporting to funders.

Resource Management:

·       Oversee the program spend and ensure resources are allocated effectively to meet program needs.

·       Coordinate  program logistics, including scheduling, supplies, and use of the HUB space and farming resources.

·       Work with the Executive Director & Program Manager to secure funding opportunities and support grant applications related to the program.

Outreach and Recruitment:

·       Develop and implement recruitment strategies to engage and enroll at-risk BIPOC youth in the program.

·       Promote the Feeding Our Future program through community events, partnerships with local schools, and outreach to youth service organizations.

Qualifications:

·       Bachelor’s degree in social work, education, nonprofit management, agriculture, business administration, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).

·       3+ years of experience in youth program management, community outreach, or social services, particularly in BIPOC communities.

·       Experience in agriculture, urban farming, or food sovereignty initiatives is highly desirable.

·       Demonstrated ability to work effectively with at-risk youth, preferably within BIPOC communities.

·       Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

·       Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with youth, farmers, external contractors, and community partners.

·       Knowledge of microenterprise development and small business support is a plus.

·       Passion for social justice, youth empowerment, and food sovereignty.

·       Preferred Skills and Experience:

·       Experience working with BIPOC communities, particularly in agriculture or food systems.

·       Strong leadership and team-building skills, with experience in mentoring and youth development.

·       Familiarity with local BIPOC farmers and food justice movements.

·       Grant writing and resource development experience is an asset.

Salary and Benefits:

·       Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.

·       Health, dental, and vision insurance.

·       Paid time off and holidays.

·       Professional development opportunities.

This role is ideal for someone passionate about youth development, social justice, and community-based agriculture, with a focus on supporting BIPOC communities and empowering the next generation of farmers and entrepreneurs.

The Feeding Our Future program is a program of Making A Difference Foundation. MADF is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

To learn more about the organization, please visit www.themadf.org.