Community Organizer/Project Coordinator

About GARD

Gary Advocates for Responsible Development (GARD) is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting economic development in the City of Gary that prioritizes environmental justice, community health, and the protection of neighborhoods and natural resources.

We support residents engaged in environmental issues in their community; we monitor proposed new development proposals and help residents understand their impact on the community; and we help residents to oppose proposals or activities that are not protective of human health and community sustainability.

Position Summary

GARD seeks a full-time Community Organizer/Project Coordinator to provide day-to-day community organizing leadership, project coordination, and administrative support for a small, mission-driven environmental nonprofit organization.

Reporting to and working closely with the Board of Directors and its committees, this position ensures board priorities are implemented effectively and that the organization operates smoothly, responsibly, and in alignment with its mission.

This is a hands-on leadership role ideal for someone who thrives in a collaborative, volunteer-driven environment and brings strong organizational skills, sound judgment, and a deep commitment to community-centered work.

Key Responsibilities

Community Outreach & Engagement

• Develop and implement outreach strategies with board members and committees
• Mobilize and engage GARD supporters, community residents, schools, businesses, and stakeholders in GARD initiatives
• Attend local meetings and events to build relationships and recruit supporters
• Represent GARD at public hearings, partnership meetings, and community events

Program Development & Delivery

• Design and deliver educational programming on environmental justice and sustainable development
• Facilitate workshops, seminars, focus groups, and presentations for diverse audiences
• Translate policy and technical information into accessible materials
• Support organizational messaging, reports, and public communications

Partnership Building

• Support advocacy campaigns and partnership organizing efforts
• Collaborate with stakeholders to identify community needs and shared goals

Organizational Leadership & Board Support

Assist the GARD Board and Committees with:

• Management of day-to-day operations in coordination with the Board Chair and officers
• Implementation of board-approved goals and priorities
• Preparation of reports, recommendations, and meeting materials
• Board development, onboarding, and governance practices
• Coordination of communication between board, committees, and partners
• Committee and Board scheduling, agendas, timelines, and action tracking
• Fundraising and grant support

Compensation & Schedule

• Salary: $50,000–$60,000, commensurate with experience
• Full-time (40 hours/week) with flexibility for evening and weekend meetings
• Paid time off: 5 vacation days, 5 sick/personal days, paid holidays
• Healthcare stipend (details provided upon offer)

This role requires regular attendance at evening board and committee meetings, community events, and local government meetings.

Growth Opportunity

This position is expected to evolve as the organization grows, offering meaningful opportunities for leadership development and expanded responsibility.

Equal Opportunity Employer

GARD is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion and is an equal opportunity employer.

To Apply

Please submit the following (PDF format):

1. Cover letter (including at least two references)
2. Resume
3. Writing sample (e.g., meeting invitation, event announcement)

Submit Email applications to: _GARD Organizer/Project Coordinator Resume

Email address: Garygard219@gmail.com

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Early applications are encouraged.