Program Manager

Best Buddies International

. Work with communities to advance Best Buddies’ mission through school- and community-based Friendship Programs .

Posted 9/23/2026full-timeHouston • Texas • United StatesJuniorMid-Level💰 $39,000 - $43,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in volunteer management and community engagement, with a strong focus on supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Proficient in communication, project management, and utilizing various platforms for outreach and training.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Volunteer ManagementCommunity EngagementStrong Oral And Written CommunicationProject ManagementSocial Media Proficiency

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Volunteer ManagementProject ManagementData TrackingFundraising SupportProgram Impact Reporting

Soft Skills

AdaptabilityRelationship BuildingInitiativeTeam CollaborationSelf-Assessment

Tools & Technologies

Microsoft Office SuiteSalesforceBeneSocial Media Platforms

Industry Keywords

Intellectual And Developmental DisabilitiesBest Buddies ProgramCommunity-Based ProgramsLeadership DevelopmentVolunteer Engagement

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Work with communities to advance Best Buddies’ mission through school- and community-based Friendship Programs
Engage people in the mission and support members creating inclusive communities for people with IDD
Work closely with chapter and community leadership to manage volunteers and provide a high-quality experience
Serve as the point of contact for program participants, volunteers, and chapter participants
Communicate program policies, database tools, training tools, deadlines, expectations, and upcoming events
Support participant and chapter recruitment efforts
Host virtual and in-person trainings and engagement activities
Ensure participation from chapter advisors and student leaders in the Annual Leadership Conference
Support chapters through virtual networks, online platforms, and in-person meetings
Provide mission-focused guidance and support to chapter members and volunteers
Track reporting and chapter updates using online platforms
Communicate program goals, responsibilities, and risk policies, including chapter dues, buddy matching, and leadership development
Support volunteer growth, manage state citizen matches, and cultivate corporate chapters
Host community trainings, including corporate partner, ambassador, and e-Buddies trainings
Support awareness and promotion through social media and other marketing efforts
Represent Best Buddies through public speaking and community involvement
Support stewardship efforts by reporting on volunteer engagement, friendship matches, and program impact
Advance local, state, and national fundraising efforts and support fundraising events
Provide program impact data for fundraising proposals and donor reporting
Ensure chapter participation in the Annual Best Buddies Leadership Conference and state Friendship Walk
Follow organizational processes, policies, procedures, and professional standards
Maintain confidential participant information and personally identifiable information
Use Bene, Microsoft Outlook, social media, and Salesforce to communicate with participants and the community
Maintain data integrity and tracking across systems

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree or 2 years of relevant experience in volunteer management
Best Buddies program experience a plus
Comfortable engaging with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including youth and adults
Adaptable and able to develop and balance multiple relationships and get results from a variety of people
Basic project and time management skills
Strong oral and written communication skills
Strong initiative, drive for results, and self-assessment skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Clear understanding of multiple communication platforms and proficient use of social media
Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite
Willing and able to travel frequently, use a personal cell phone, and work evenings and weekends as necessary
Access to an automobile with applicable insurance or other reliable transportation

Benefits

Comp & perks

Comprehensive and generous benefits program
Financial security benefits
Health and wellness benefits
Time off