Associate Director of Community Impact

Position Summary

The Associate Director serves as a key member of the leadership team, supporting the strategic growth, operations, programs, partnerships, and community impact of a community-based nonprofit organization serving the Northwest Side of Chicago. This role works closely with executive leadership to advance the organization's mission, strengthen community relationships, oversee special initiatives, and ensure excellence across programs, events, and organizational operations.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader who is passionate about youth development, arts and culture, workforce readiness, leadership development, community engagement, and creating opportunities that empower individuals and families to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership

• Support the implementation of organizational goals, priorities, and strategic initiatives.
• Partner with executive leadership on planning, growth opportunities, and special projects.
• Represent the organization at community meetings, events, and partnership opportunities.
• Foster a positive, mission-driven culture among staff, volunteers, program participants, and community stakeholders.

Program Development & Community Impact

• Assist in the development, implementation, and evaluation of community programs and services.
• Support initiatives related to arts, media, sports, education, workforce development, entrepreneurship, and youth leadership.
• Ensure programs are responsive to community needs and aligned with organizational objectives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with schools, businesses, civic leaders, community organizations, and local residents.

Operations & Administration

• Help oversee day-to-day operations and organizational effectiveness.
• Support staff supervision, volunteer engagement, and cross-department collaboration.
• Develop and improve systems, processes, and operational efficiencies.
• Assist with budget oversight, resource management, and organizational planning.

Partnerships & Resource Development

• Cultivate relationships with sponsors, donors, foundations, and strategic partners.
• Support fundraising initiatives, sponsorship development, and grant opportunities.
• Assist with community outreach, marketing, and public relations efforts.
• Identify opportunities to expand programs, services, and community impact.

Events & Special Initiatives

• Lead or support community events, fundraisers, youth programs, workshops, tournaments, showcases, and special projects.
• Coordinate logistics and stakeholder engagement for major organizational activities.
• Ensure successful execution of events that promote community engagement and organizational growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience preferred.
• Experience in nonprofit management, community development, education, youth services, arts administration, business operations, or a related field.
• Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Experience working with diverse communities and stakeholders.
• Commitment to serving and strengthening communities on the Northwest Side of Chicago.

Preferred Characteristics

• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to innovate and adapt.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Ability to build partnerships and inspire collaboration.
• Passion for community development, youth empowerment, arts and culture, education, and neighborhood revitalization.
• Desire to make a lasting impact on individuals, families, and communities throughout Chicago's Northwest Side.

Compensation

Salary commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits package and professional development opportunities may be available.

Work Environment

This position requires a combination of office, community-based, and event-related work, including occasional evenings and weekends to support programs, partnerships, and special events.