Program assistant Jobs in Columbus, OH

Job Title: Food Pillar Director

• Oversee and manage the Urban Garden, Kitchen, and Fresh Market programs, ensuring they meet FACCES' mission and community objectives.

• Develop, implement, and monitor strategic goals and operational plans for the food pillar, with a focus on sustainability, community impact, and food justice.

• Supervise and mentor a diverse team, including staff, youth, volunteers and families participating in food-related programs, providing guidance and leadership to ensure success.

• Collaborate with other pillars within FACCES to support organizational goals and assist in their respective programs and events.

• Develop and maintain strong partnerships with external organizations, local businesses, and community stakeholders to enhance the impact of the food pillar.

• Seek funding for food-related programs through grants, donations, and partnerships.

• Prepare proposals, applications, and reports to secure resources for the Urban Garden, Kitchen, Fresh Market, and other related initiatives.

• Manage budgets for food programs, ensuring efficient use of resources and aligning with funding restrictions and organizational priorities.

• Plan, lead, and execute events on a weekly basis, including cooking classes, community meals, fundraisers, and seasonal markets.

• Create event menus, guides, and logistical plans, ensuring the successful execution of food-related events from start to finish.

• Cook for events and oversee meal preparation, ensuring high-quality, nutritious meals are provided.

• Coordinate volunteer involvement, reaching out to community members and organizations to secure volunteers for events and programs.

• Pick up materials and supplies for events and programs, ensuring everything needed is ready and on hand.

• Lead team meetings, create agendas, and take minutes for board and committee meetings.

• Delegate tasks and ensure effective communication across all levels of the team, ensuring the smooth operation of daily tasks and long-term goals.

• Monitor and track inventory for all food programs, keeping accurate records of supplies and materials, and purchasing items as needed.

• Ensure the cleanliness and safety of the entire building, including all kitchen and garden areas, and secure the building at the end of each day.

• Lead monthly Food Pillar Committee meetings, engaging stakeholders and ensuring consistent progress and alignment with FACCES' goals.

• Create strong relationships with the local community, businesses, and other organizations through networking, outreach, and collaboration.

• Assist with marketing and social media efforts to promote food programs, events, and the impact of the Food Pillar within the community.

• Maintain strong communication with program participants, local partners, and the broader community to engage them in food programs and initiatives.

• Collect and maintain accurate data related to food programs, including participation, inventory, and outcomes.

• Prepare reports for grant submissions, funders, and other stakeholders, demonstrating the impact of food programs and ensuring compliance with funding requirements.

• Regularly assess and report on the effectiveness of the Food Pillar programs and look for continuous improvement opportunities.

• Attend meetings and events outside of FACCES to represent the organization and create community partnerships.

• Support the overall operations of FACCES by participating in cross-functional projects and collaborating with other teams as needed.

• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations in all kitchen and food-related areas.

• Contribute to the development of policies, procedures, and best practices for food programs and staff.

Leadership & Team Management:

• Proven experience in supervising and mentoring staff, youth, volunteers and families participating in food-related programs, with the ability to motivate and develop a team.

• Experience in creating and leading meetings, including agendas, taking minutes, and ensuring follow-through on action items.

• Strong background in program management with a focus on food-related initiatives, community engagement, and event planning.

• Extensive experience in cooking and menu planning, including for large groups and events.

• Proven ability to coordinate and execute events, including community meals, workshops, and fundraising activities.

• Experience in fundraising and grant writing, with a track record of securing funding for food and community programs.

• Ability to manage budgets, allocate resources effectively, and ensure the financial sustainability of food programs.

• Strong skills in community outreach and building partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and community members.

• Excellent networking skills, with a demonstrated ability to engage diverse stakeholders and drive collaboration.

• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and stay focused in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong attention to detail and experience with data collection, tracking, and reporting.

• Experience with inventory management and purchasing supplies for food programs.

• ServSafe Certification or equivalent food safety certification (or willingness to obtain within the first 60 days).

• Knowledge of food safety regulations and experience ensuring compliance in all food-related operations.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage the community, staff, and external partners effectively.

• Experience with social media and marketing strategies to promote food programs and events.

• Ability to adapt to changing needs and priorities in a fast-paced, community-focused organization.

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet the needs of programs and events.

• Bilingual (Spanish/English) is a plus for effective community engagement.

• Experience in urban agriculture or food systems, with a particular focus on community gardens and local food production.

• Knowledge of nutrition and experience designing programs that promote healthy eating and food security.