Community Outreach Program Coordinator

Career Guide
Plans and runs community outreach programs to connect target audiences with services, resources, or events. Builds partnerships, coordinates volunteers, manages logistics and budgets, and tracks outcomes to ensure programs meet goals and funder requirements.

Key Responsibilities

  • Plan and execute community events, workshops, and information sessions
  • Build and maintain partnerships with local organizations and stakeholders
  • Recruit, train, and schedule volunteers and ambassadors
  • Develop outreach materials, newsletters, and social media posts
  • Coordinate logistics: site permissions, vendors, transportation, and supplies
  • Track participation and outcomes; prepare reports for leadership and funders
  • Manage program budgets and assist with grant compliance and reporting

Career Progression

Can Lead To
Community Outreach Manager
Program Manager (Community Programs)
Director of Community Engagement
Transition Opportunities
Volunteer Coordinator
Community Health Worker
Development/Fundraising Coordinator
Communications/Marketing Coordinator

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills
Grant writing and budget justificationProgram evaluation (logic models, KPIs, basic data analysis)Volunteer management frameworks and toolsCRM/database use for outreach (e.g., Salesforce NPSP)
Development SuggestionsComplete a grant writing and program evaluation course; volunteer to lead a small outreach project and track results in a simple dashboard (e.g., Google Sheets or Airtable).

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range
Entry Level$40,000-$50,000
Mid Level$50,000-$65,000
Senior Level$60,000-$80,000
Growth Trend
stable — Steady demand across nonprofits, health systems, and local government programs.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers
American Red CrossYMCAUnited Way
Industry Sectors
Non-Profit & Social ImpactHealthcareGovernment

Recommended Next Steps

1
Take a grant writing course (e.g., Candid Learning) and build a sample proposal with goals, budget, and metrics.
2
Lead or co-lead a community event as a volunteer; document outreach plan, partner list, and outcome report as a portfolio piece.
3
Pursue a targeted credential aligned to your focus: CVA for volunteer management, CNP for nonprofit leadership, or CHES for public health outreach.