Position reports to the Programs Officer

The Rapides Foundation seeks a full-time Programs Coordinator for Community Development Works, a program of The Rapides Foundation.

The Programs Coordinator plays a key role in advancing Community Development Works' efforts to strengthen nonprofit and community organizations throughout Central Louisiana. Through leadership development programs, training opportunities, resource development, technical assistance, and community engagement, this position helps connect organizations with the knowledge, tools, and opportunities they need to build capacity and increase their effectiveness. Success in this role requires strong relationship-building skills, initiative, continuous learning, attention to detail, and the ability to translate information and best practices into practical resources that support organizational growth and long-term community impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in a related field such as Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Community Development, Social Sciences, Social Work, Education, Organizational Leadership, or similar.
• Minimum of five years of relevant experience in program coordination, design, and implementation, including planning, managing, and evaluating programs or initiatives.
• Demonstrated experience designing and facilitating trainings, workshops, or leadership development programs for adult learners.
• Ability to assess organizational needs and provide practical capacity-building support or referral to resources and tools.
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills, with confidence in public speaking and community engagement.
• Self-directed, highly organized professional with strong initiative, follow-through, and a growth mindset.
• Proficiency with technology and data systems, including CRM platforms, spreadsheets, virtual meeting tools, and digital communications; ability to learn new systems independently.
• Ability and willingness to travel and regularly engage in the community, including attending meetings, events, and building relationships across the service area.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative, solve problems independently, and follow through on projects with minimal supervision.
• Preferred: Experience with nonprofit capacity building, including starting or leading a nonprofit, and knowledge of effective nonprofit leadership, governance, and best practices.  

Are You a Great Fit?

• Do you believe in the value nonprofit organizations bring to communities and enjoy helping organizations grow stronger, more effective, and better equipped to achieve their missions?
• Do you enjoy building relationships and serving as a trusted resource for nonprofit and community leaders?
• Do you have a growth mindset and enjoy learning new content areas, technologies, and approaches while continuously seeking ways to improve programs, resources, and outcomes?
• Are you comfortable facilitating trainings, leading discussions, and translating complex information, best practices, and research into practical tools that others can successfully apply?
• Are you highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage logistics, data, and multiple projects while also understanding the broader goals and community impact of the work?
• Can you take initiative, work independently, and follow through on responsibilities while collaborating within an established structure, organizational processes, and shared priorities?
• Are you comfortable using a variety of technology platforms and confident in your ability to learn new systems and tools as needed?

To apply, please email the following to jobs@rapidesfoundation.org:

• A resume outlining your relevant experience, skills, and background
• A one-page cover letter explaining:
  • What interests you about the Programs Coordinator position and the mission of Community Development Works?
  • Describe an experience where you helped individuals, organizations, or community groups build skills, solve challenges, or strengthen their effectiveness. What was your role?
  • What strengths you would bring to this position that involves coordinating programs, building relationships, and supporting nonprofit organizations?
  • Is there anything else you would like us to know?

Download the Programs Coordinator for CDW Job Description.