Job Description

Community Organizer/Project Coordinator

Full-Time Position

Organization: Gary Advocates for Responsible Development (GARD) – Gary, Indiana

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

Qualifications

Required:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in community organizing, education, advocacy, or nonprofit work
• Experience engaging diverse communities and facilitating public meetings
• Strong written, public speaking, and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to translate policy and data into clear, accessible language
• Experience working with volunteer boards or committees
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Ability to travel within Gary and Northwest Indiana (personal vehicle required)
• Home office setup with reliable internet access
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends

Preferred:

• Knowledge of Gary and surrounding communities
• Experience in environmental justice, sustainable development, or public health advocacy
• Grant writing or coordination experience
• Familiarity with nonprofit financial management
• Social media and digital communications experience
• Residency in Gary, Indiana (or willingness to relocate)

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.

How to Apply

To Apply: Please submit the following (PDF format):

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

Submit email applications to: [email protected]

Subject line: GARD Organizer/Project Coordinator Resume

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

Job Posting Date: March 16, 2026

Application Deadline: April 13, 2026

Job Categories: Environmental. Job Types: Full-Time. Salaries: See posting for details.

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