Volunteer & Outreach Manager
Volunteer & Outreach Manager
Lincoln, Nebraska
Ten Thousand Villages Lincoln’s mission is to bring together global and local communities through fair trade, ensuring that every purchase supports livelihoods rooted in equity, sustainability, and dignity for all.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Ten Thousand Villages Lincoln is seeking a full-time Volunteer & Outreach Manager to build and lead a strong volunteer program while coordinating outreach and community engagement efforts. This role combines direct volunteer leadership, customer service, and community partnership development with retail management responsibilities. The Volunteer & Outreach Manager will recruit, train, and support volunteers, oversee off-site sales, and represent Ten Thousand Villages throughout the community.
The primary roles of this position are:
- Recruit, train, and support volunteers to advance store operations and outreach.
- Lead and expand off-site sales and educational outreach opportunities.
- Cultivate partnerships that deepen community engagement with Fair Trade.
- Provide excellent customer service and sales leadership in the store.
DUTIES
Customer Service & Retail Operations (40%)
- Provide excellent customer service on the sales floor, modeling Ten Thousand Villages’ standards.
- Supervise and support volunteers and staff during retail shifts.
- Assist with merchandising, inventory processing, receiving, and loss prevention.
- Address customer concerns and ensure smooth store operations.
- Assist with special projects, seasonal sales initiatives, and store events as needed.
Volunteer Engagement & Leadership (35%)
- Recruit, interview, and onboard volunteers for store shifts, events, and outreach activities.
- Provide training, feedback, and recognition to build a motivated and skilled volunteer team.
- Manage volunteer schedules, ensuring adequate coverage for retail and off-site events.
- Track volunteer hours and maintain strong communication with the volunteer base.
- Work closely with the Executive Director and Outreach Committee to align volunteer engagement strategies with store goals.
Community Outreach & Off-site Sales (25%)
- Plan and coordinate off-site sales, including logistics, staffing, and reporting.
- Represent Ten Thousand Villages at community events and presentations.
- Build relationships with schools, faith communities, businesses, and civic groups.
- Develop and share educational resources and presentations about Fair Trade.
- Collaborate with marketing staff/committees to promote outreach events and programs.
Qualifications
- 3+ years of experience in volunteer management, community outreach, or nonprofit leadership; retail experience a plus.
- Strong organizational and leadership skills with the ability to inspire and mentor diverse groups.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
- Experience coordinating events or community programs.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and social media platforms.
- Ability to balance administrative tasks with direct customer service responsibilities.
- Commitment to Fair Trade and the mission of Ten Thousand Villages.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and move on the sales floor for extended periods of time.
- Ability to bend, reach, and lift up to 25 lbs (using appropriate equipment and safety techniques).
- Ability to assist with setting up displays, moving boxes of merchandise, and preparing and running off-site events.
Schedule & Hours
This is a full-time, non-exempt position (40 hours per week). Must be available to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, according to store needs. Store hours are:
- Monday–Thursday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Friday: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Saturday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Sunday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Pay & Benefits
- $20/hour (approx $41,000 annually)
- Eligible for overtime
- Monthly health care stipend
- Paid Time Off and paid federal holidays: Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day
- Paid downtown parking space
- Employee discount
To apply: Email a resume and references to: lincoln@tenthousandvillages.com
No phone calls please.