Program Manager, Community Engagement

Company: Best Buddies Int. Inc
Location: Peoria
Posted on: February 16, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, inclusive living, and family support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Best Buddies is the largest organization dedicated to ending the social, physical and economic isolation of the 200 million people worldwide with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our programs empower people with IDD to form meaningful friendships with their peers, secure jobs, improve communication and advocacy skills, and live independently, while also offering support for their families. Job Title: Program Manager, Community Engagement Department: State Operations and Programs Reports to: Area Director Position Overview: The Program Manager, Community Engagement is responsible for engaging, training, and supporting volunteers in Best Buddies school and community programs. This includes hosting quarterly in-person trainings for all advisors; developing and leading ongoing awareness activities with all chapter members and communities; communicating Best Buddies deadlines and expectations using online platforms; hosting Leadership Training Days for regional volunteers; developing and leading Ambassador Trainings for all participants with IDD; and ensuring full participation from chapter advisors and student leaders in the Annual Leadership Conference. The PM, Community Engagement is also responsible for encouraging and monitoring participation in state events, like the Friendship Walk, and tracking the fundraising efforts of all volunteers. Job Qualifications – Qualified applicants must have: Must be comfortable engaging with people with IDD, including youth and adults. Have experience managing and motivating volunteers. Must be adaptable and able to quickly and effectively develop and balance multiple relationships, and get results from a variety of people. Have basic project and time management skills. Exhibit strong written communication skills. Exhibit strong initiative, drive for results, and self-assessment skills. Have the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Have a clear understanding of multiple communication platforms and proficient use of social media. Proficiency with Adobe, Microsoft Office, and all Best Buddies online tracking platforms. Ability to motivate, evaluate, and build volunteer engagement in events and trainings. Experience developing and facilitating trainings to multiple age groups, experience, and skill sets. Must be willing and able to travel frequently, use personal cell phone, and work evenings and weekends as necessary in order to accomplish job responsibilities. Hold a Bachelor’s degree or minimum four years’ relevant experience. Access to an automobile with applicable insurance. Job Duties: Programs Develop and facilitate leadership trainings specific to the volunteer roles; focus on volunteer engagement; ensure mission advancement and participation in all Best Buddies initiatives. Manage state citizen matches and support/cultivate corporate chapters. Identify and support lead community volunteers to manage citizen buddy pairs through planning community events and networking opportunities. Evaluate and track chapter engagement in Best Buddies trainings, including providing certification for advisors and ongoing training opportunities for members and communities. Develop and lead community trainings to promote awareness of and engagement in Best Buddies mission, including but not limited to corporate partner trainings, ambassadors, and e-Buddies trainings. Message expectations for participation in all state events and programmatic initiatives. Ensure participation from all chapters in the Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference and the state’s Friendship Walk. Development Drive fundraising efforts of all chapters and community members for the state’s Friendship Walk. Identify sponsors, partners, and development opportunities for state events and new funding sources with State Director. Marketing Collaborate with state staff to develop necessary communication tools and identify new schools and corporations to start chapters. Use of Adceio, Microsoft Outlook, social media, and BBO to appropriately communicate with participants and the community. Best Buddies® is an affirmative action employer, in addition to an EOE and M/F/V/PWD/PV employer. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are foundational to Best Buddies International’s core values and help the organization continue to achieve its mission. Here at Best Buddies, our goal is to lead and advocate for a more inclusive world. Best Buddies offers a comprehensive and generous benefits program that include financial security, health and wellness and time off.

Keywords: Best Buddies Int. Inc, Bloomington , Program Manager, Community Engagement, Administration, Clerical , Peoria, Illinois