Program Coordinator

Organization Overview:

The Elba Hope Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing sustainable agriculture, conservation, food security, youth education, and advocacy. Our mission is to drive transformative change by fostering innovation, empowering communities, and forming strategic partnerships that will have a lasting impact on these sectors, both today and for future generations.

Program Overview:

The Elba Hope Foundation is exploring and developing sustainable, people-first solutions to address key challenges in Sierra Leone, beginning with initiatives focused on water access, power, and connectivity in the Bonthe/Sherbro Island region. This includes solar energy and water projects aimed at benefiting local schools, community centers, and hospitals, with a long-term vision of creating sustainable infrastructure and community engagement through technological partnerships.

Position Overview:

The Program & Community Development Coordinator will play a crucial role in advancing our mission by coordinating program development and community engagement efforts in Sierra Leone. You will work closely with the Chief Operations Officer and senior leadership to manage the successful scoping, implementation, and delivery of our programs, ensuring they meet organizational goals, stay on time, on budget, and align with the needs of local communities.

In this role, you will contribute to efforts to build and implement a comprehensive community engagement and growth strategy. You will foster strong relationships with key stakeholders, including community leaders, government officials, donors, and international partners. You will be responsible for managing aspects of program administration, ensuring effective tracking and reporting of program budgets and progress, and driving measurable social impact.

Key Responsibilities:

• Regulatory Compliance & Partnerships:
  • Identify and map out legal and regulatory requirements related to program implementation, particularly in the areas of water resources, energy, and environmental sustainability.
  • Collaborate with government ministries and local authorities to ensure compliance and foster positive working relationships.
• Community Needs Assessment & Engagement:
  • Collaborate with the COO and Executive Director to review and compile information for project planning.
  • Collect demographic data to understand population distribution, age groups, household structures, and other key variables in target communities.
  • Assess access to digital technologies, infrastructure (electricity, transport), and social services within local communities.
  • Conduct needs assessments to identify community priorities in areas like healthcare, education, economic opportunity, and infrastructure.
  • Foster an inclusive environment where community members can voice their concerns, priorities, and suggestions.
  • Build trust and establish a framework for ongoing dialogue between the community, local government, and NGOs.
• Program Planning & Delivery:
  • Support the scoping, design, and delivery of community-focused programs, ensuring they are delivered on time, within budget, and in alignment with project goals.
  • Work with cross-functional teams to oversee the complete project lifecycle, from planning to launch.
  • Proactively identify and manage project risks, challenges, and opportunities.
  • Ensure that all programs and activities are aligned with Elba Hope Foundation’s strategic vision and deliver measurable social impact.
• Relationship Development & Strategy:
  • Develop and implement strategies to build and maintain strong, productive relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, local leaders, donors, international partners, and volunteers.
  • Engage with key opinion formers (KOFs) and stakeholders to build support for Elba Hope Foundation’s projects and initiatives.
  • Collect feedback from stakeholders to continuously refine and improve community engagement strategies.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Proven experience in community development, program management, or a related field, ideally in a nonprofit or international development context.
• Strong understanding of sustainable development, including renewable energy, water access, and community engagement.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team to manage complex projects.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Familiarity with the legal and regulatory landscape in Sierra Leone, particularly regarding water resources and energy projects, is a plus.
• Fluency in English required; knowledge of local languages in Sierra Leone is an advantage.

What We Offer:

• The opportunity to make a significant impact in the lives of individuals and communities in Sierra Leone.
• The chance to work with a dynamic, mission-driven organization and collaborate with passionate professionals.
• Competitive compensation and a flexible, remote work environment.
• This position will start at $25/hr with a maximum of 15 hours per week with room to grow after a trial period.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience relevant.