Director of Community Building
Location: Remote with travel to camp locations and community events
About Us
The YS Kim Foundation is dedicated to empowering Korean Americans by fostering leadership, celebrating cultural identity, and building a vibrant, connected community. Through signature initiatives like Camp Naru, the YS Kim Scholars Program, and year-round community engagement efforts, we provide meaningful opportunities for youth and young adults to embrace their heritage, form lasting connections, and develop as confident, impactful leaders. Our mission is to inspire the next generation to thrive with pride in their cultural identity and a commitment to making a difference.
Position Summary
The Director of Community Building will lead the operational management and strategic growth of Camp Naru and the YS Kim Foundation’s year-round community-building initiatives. These include Camp Naru, the YS Kim Scholars Program, the Young Professionals Network, the Young Adults Engagement Program (focused on counselors and alumni), and post-camp camper engagement. This role focuses on fostering Korean-American cultural identity, leadership development, and a connected community while ensuring program excellence and sustainability.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and implement a comprehensive vision for the YS Kim Foundation’s community-building programs, including Camp Naru, YS Kim Scholars, and post-camp camper engagement.
- Collaborate with the Managing Director, Board of Directors and stakeholders to align programs with the Foundation’s mission and values.
- Build partnerships with community leaders, organizations, and donors to expand program reach and impact.
Operational Oversight
- Manage annual operations for Camp Naru, including staffing, logistics, programming, and budget.
- Oversee the YS Kim Scholars Program, focusing on academic, cultural, and professional development for participants.
- Direct the Young Professionals Network, offering career-building opportunities, mentorship, and networking events.
- Lead the Young Adults Engagement Program to foster involvement for camp alumni and former counselors.
- Develop and execute post-camp camper engagement programs, such as seasonal reunions, virtual gatherings, and year-round cultural activities.
Recruitment and Development
- Recruit, train, and supervise staff for Camp Naru and other initiatives, including facilitators, counselors, and program coordinators.
- Foster an inclusive and collaborative team culture, prioritizing professional development and retention.
Community Program Design and Delivery
- Plan and execute engaging, culturally relevant programming tailored to each initiative:
- Camp Naru: Deliver high-quality camp programming focused on leadership, cultural identity, and personal growth.
- YS Kim Scholars: Academic and leadership workshops, mentorship opportunities, and cultural exploration.
- Young Professionals: Career panels, networking mixers, and skill-building sessions.
- Young Adults Engagement Program: Alumni engagement events, leadership training, and counselor retreats.
- Post-Camp Camper Engagement: Organize reunions, virtual meet-ups, and online platforms for camper connections.
- Incorporate feedback and best practices to continually improve program effectiveness.
Fundraising and Development
- Collaborate with the Board of Directors to develop and execute fundraising strategies, including grant writing and donor engagement.
- Cultivate relationships with donors, corporations, and foundations.
- Identify funding opportunities to sustain and grow year-round programming.
Financial Management
- Prepare and manage annual budgets for Camp Naru and community programs.
- Ensure efficient resource allocation and provide regular financial updates to stakeholders.
Marketing and Communications
- Serve as the primary spokesperson for Camp Naru and community programs.
- Oversee marketing and outreach efforts, including digital content, social media, and promotional campaigns.
- Develop storytelling initiatives to highlight program impact and engage donors and participants.
Evaluation and Reporting
- Implement metrics to measure program success, participant engagement, and overall impact.
- Present data-driven reports to the Board, donors, and stakeholders.
- Identify opportunities for program refinement and growth.
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Education, or a related field preferred.
- Experience:
- 5–10 years in leadership roles within community-building, nonprofit, or youth development organizations.
- Demonstrated success in managing large-scale programs and events.
- Proven experience in fundraising, grant writing, and donor relations.
- Skills:
- Strong leadership and organizational management abilities.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
- Proficiency in budgeting, financial oversight, and resource management.
- Familiarity with Korean-American culture and identity.
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
- Attributes:
- Passionate about youth development, cultural heritage, and community engagement.
- Collaborative, innovative, and results-oriented leader.
- Ability to balance strategic vision with day-to-day operational management.
Key Performance Indicators
- High levels of satisfaction and participation in Camp Naru and community initiatives.
- Successful execution of post-camp camper engagement programs.
- Growth and retention in YS Kim Scholars, Young Professionals, and Young Adults programs.
- Achievement of fundraising and revenue targets to sustain and expand programs.
- Positive feedback from stakeholders, staff, and program participants.