Program Coordinator

Position SummaryThe Program Coordinator is responsible for the day-to-day implementation and coordination of the Illinois Access to Justice (ILA2J) Community Navigator Program in the Austin community on Chicago’s Westside. Working under the direction of the Executive Director, the Program Coordinator oversees program operations, supervises Community Navigators, coordinates outreach and legal education activities, maintains partnerships, monitors performance measures, and ensures compliance with grant requirements.This position serves as the primary operational leader for the program and is responsible for ensuring that all grant activities are implemented effectively, participants receive high-quality services, and program goals are achieved within established timelines.The Program Coordinator promotes a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and community-centered approach while ensuring that Community Navigators provide legal information and navigation services within the scope of the Illinois Access to Justice initiative and in compliance with Unauthorized Practice of Law guidelines.Primary ResponsibilitiesProgram CoordinationCoordinate the daily implementation of the Illinois Access to Justice Community Navigator Program. Develop and maintain program work plans and activity schedules. Coordinate legal education workshops, outreach events, and community engagement activities. Ensure timely completion of grant deliverables and performance objectives. Assist with implementation of program policies, procedures, and quality improvement initiatives. Community Navigator SupervisionRecruit, orient, and support ten (10) Community Navigators. Provide day-to-day supervision, guidance, coaching, and technical assistance. Schedule and facilitate monthly Community Navigator meetings. Monitor Community Navigator activities, documentation, and performance benchmarks. Review outreach logs, referral documentation, and participant records for completeness and accuracy. Training CoordinationCoordinate participation in Illinois Access to Justice training opportunities. Schedule required Unauthorized Practice of Law training. Coordinate Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid certification training. Organize ongoing professional development related to legal literacy, trauma-informed care, leadership, and community outreach. Ensure Community Navigators complete all required certifications and continuing education. Community Outreach and Partnership DevelopmentCoordinate outreach initiatives throughout the target service area. Schedule Know Your Rights workshops and legal education presentations. Maintain collaborative relationships with legal aid organizations, faith-based organizations, educational institutions, and community partners. Represent What About US Charitable Enterprises at community meetings and collaborative events.   Participant ServicesProvide guidance to Community Navigators regarding participant engagement and referral procedures. Ensure participants receive timely referrals to legal aid providers and community resources. Support efforts to reduce barriers to accessing legal and supportive services. Promote equitable access to justice through community-based outreach and education. Data Management and ReportingMaintain accurate participant records using the organization's Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. Monitor outreach activities, participant engagement, referrals, and workshop attendance. Prepare monthly and quarterly reports for review by the Executive Director. Assist with data collection and program evaluation activities. Maintain compliance with confidentiality policies and data security requirements. Compliance and Quality AssuranceEnsure all program activities comply with Illinois Access to Justice, IDHS, and organizational policies. Support implementation of participant confidentiality standards. Monitor adherence to Unauthorized Practice of Law requirements. Assist with grant monitoring visits and preparation of supporting documentation. Promote continuous quality improvement through regular review of program outcomes.  Minimum QualificationsBachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Education, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered. Minimum of two (2) years of experience coordinating community-based programs, nonprofit initiatives, or grant-funded services. Experience supervising staff, volunteers, or community leaders preferred. Demonstrated experience working with underserved, justice-impacted, or historically marginalized populations. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic data management systems. Ability to work collaboratively with community partners and diverse stakeholders. Valid Illinois driver's license and reliable transportation preferred. Preferred QualificationsExperience coordinating community outreach or legal navigation initiatives. Familiarity with trauma-informed practices and restorative approaches. Knowledge of community resources, legal aid systems, or reentry services. Experience with grant reporting, data collection, or performance measurement. Mental Health First Aid certification or willingness to obtain certification. Bilingual proficiency is a plus. Performance ExpectationsThe Program Coordinator will be responsible for supporting achievement of the following annual program objectives:Recruit, onboard, and support 10 Community Navigators. Coordinate 40 Know Your Rights workshops. Supporting 30 community outreach events. Assist in reaching 1,000 community members through outreach activities. Ensure 750 individuals receive legal education. Oversee completion of 300 participant assessments. Support 100 accompaniment services. Facilitate 250 referrals to legal aid providers. Ensure 100% completion of required training by Community Navigators. Submit accurate and timely program reports and documentation. Physical RequirementsThis position requires frequent travel throughout the service area, participation in community meetings and outreach events, occasional evening and weekend work, and the ability to lift and transport program materials weighing up to 25 pounds.CompensationSalary: $58,000–$62,000 annually, based on education, experience, and demonstrated qualifications.Benefits:Employer-sponsored health insurance Paid holidays and paid time off Professional development and training opportunities Supportive, mission-driven work environment Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in expanding access to justice for underserved communities