Community Engagement Coordinator

The Community Engagement Coordinator will lead outreach and family engagement efforts for IHFL's innovative after-school program in Newark, fostering strong community partnerships and coordinating bi-monthly weekend events. This role involves developing engagement strategies, managing student recruitment, and collaborating with local organizations to promote health and food literacy initiatives. Ideal candidates are bilingual (Spanish/English) with experience in event planning, community outreach, and working with diverse urban communities.

Working closely with the Program Manager, this role will build vital community partnerships, coordinate bi-monthly weekend events, and ensure strong family participation in our health and food literacy programs. This position requires a dynamic individual who can work effectively during our operational hours (9:00 AM - 6:00 PM) and support weekend community programming.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with Newark community organizations, schools, and families

• Plan and execute engaging bi-monthly weekend community events and family workshops

• Create and implement family engagement strategies that support program goals

• Manage program recruitment and maintain steady student enrollment

• Coordinate with local health organizations and food access programs

• Track and report on community engagement metrics and program impact

• Develop and distribute program communications in multiple languages

• Support Program Manager with community feedback collection and program adaptation

• Assist in documenting program success stories and impact for donor communications

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Community Development, Social Work, or related field

• 2+ years of experience in community engagement or outreach, preferably in Newark

• Demonstrated success in:

  • Event planning and coordination

  • Building community partnerships

  • Program recruitment and retention

  • Working with diverse urban communities

• Strong project management and organizational skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities

• Bilingual Spanish/English required

• Experience with social media and community outreach platforms

• Understanding of urban food systems and health equity issues

Additional Requirements

• Flexible schedule to accommodate evening hours (11:00 AM - 8:00 PM)

• Available to work two weekend days per month for community events

• Comfort with ambiguity and ability to create structure in a startup environment

• Valid driver's license and ability to travel throughout Newark

• Comfortable presenting to various stakeholder groups

• Passionate commitment to the mission of creating lasting change in underserved communities

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision coverage

• Flexible PTO

• FSA/HSA

• Mental health benefits

• Parking/Commuter stipend

• Retirement Plan - 401(k) with employer matching, limited contribution

• Team Building and Employee Engagement Activities

This is an opportunity to contribute your expertise to an innovative pilot program working to transform health outcomes in Newark communities through education and engagement. The ideal candidate will be passionate about community nutrition education and creating lasting positive change in urban communities.