Volunteer Community Outreach Manager

(Palmetto Trail – Trailblazers Program)

The Volunteer Community Outreach Manager is responsible for building and managing the Palmetto Trail’s statewide volunteer program, Trailblazers, a structured, multi-tiered initiative that engages community members in trail maintenance, outreach, and advocacy. This position will lead the implementation, coordination, and growth of the Trailblazers program while fostering lasting community partnerships and ensuring the Palmetto Trail has a sustainable and well-trained volunteer base.

The incumbent must possess the ability to design and deliver volunteer systems in a systematic and intentional manner, aligning them with the organization’s strategic objectives. A successful history of recruiting, training, and retaining volunteers, as well as the ability to expand community outreach with measurable results, is expected.

Primary Responsibilities

Volunteer Program Implementation (20%)

Lead the rollout of the Trailblazers Volunteer Program, including:

• Developing orientation processes (welcome packet, safety and ethics training, waivers, and code of conduct).
• Establishing training modules at multiple levels (basic tool safety, personal safety, erosion control, sustainable trail building, structural repairs, and crew leadership).
• Building clear volunteer pathways (Trail Steward → Crew Member → Crew Leader → Ambassador).
• Launching and managing program initiatives such as Adopt-a-Trail, Monthly Trail Workdays.

Volunteer Recruitment & Engagement (20%)

Recruit, onboard, and support individual volunteers and groups. Foster community stewardship, ensuring volunteers are effectively matched to opportunities across the state. Build partnerships with hiking clubs, schools, businesses, and civic groups.

Training & Skill Development (15%)

Deliver training sessions for volunteers of all levels. Coordinate advanced skills certification (e.g., first aid/CPR, crew leadership). Ensure safety standards are upheld in all trail activities.

Program Coordination & Tracking (15%)

Manage the online volunteer portal (e.g., sign-ups, scheduling, and hours tracking). Monitor participation levels, training completions, and program milestones. Collect and analyze feedback to improve volunteer experiences.

Trail Project Support (10%)

Collaborate with Regional Trail Coordinators to identify, prioritize, and schedule maintenance and construction projects. Ensure volunteer work aligns with sustainability standards.

Community Outreach & Events (10%)

Represent the Palmetto Trail at public events. Promote Trailblazers through presentations, guided hikes, and educational programs. Host community tabling events to grow awareness.

Recognition & Retention (5%)

Coordinate recognition programs, including milestone hour badges, Volunteer of the Year, annual celebration events, and branded gear.

Resource & Safety Management (5%)

Maintain volunteer tools, safety equipment, and training resources. Ensure all volunteers follow established safety procedures and reporting protocols.

Additional Responsibilities

• Work with the Palmetto Trail staff team to align volunteer initiatives with broader organizational goals.
• Support and attend Palmetto Trail events and programs.
• Other duties as assigned.

Core Competencies

• Organizational Leadership/Management – Understands the needs of the organization and partners in order to provide accurate, complete, and timely service while furthering the mission, values, and goals.
• Results-Oriented – Prioritizes effectiveness and efficiency, aiming for measurable results.
• Initiative, Innovation and Creativity – Develops and implements new and creative ways of growing and improving the Trailblazers program.
• Communication Skills – Writes and speaks clearly, communicates persuasively, and represents the organization professionally to staff, volunteers, and external partners.

Required Minimum Education and Experience

• 4-year college degree OR at least 2 years of related professional experience
• Competent with technology (volunteer management platforms, spreadsheets, communications tools)
• Strong management skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills

General Physical Requirements

Physical Activities: Must be able to exert 15 lbs of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount frequently to lift, carry, push, or pull objects of 50 lbs or less. Requires walking and standing for long periods.

Working Conditions: Subject to both indoor and outdoor environmental conditions.

Travel: Required to travel throughout the state to coordinate volunteer programs and support Palmetto Trail events. Some overnight travel may be required.