Program Manager

About Us

At Friendship Circle, we are more than just an organization; we are a vibrant community that honors every individual's infinite value, inspired by our Jewish heritage. We touch the lives of individuals with special needs and their families through comprehensive programs that empower, uplift, and support them. Our team thrives on respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to making a meaningful difference.

Our core values are:

• Respecting every person for their infinite value within their soul
• Valuing the Jewish foundation of Friendship Circle
• Taking ownership
• Being a team player
• Having a “yes” attitude
• Having a growth mindset

Job Description

The role of the Lessons for Life Program Manager is to oversee the planning and facilitation of our Lessons for Life Program. The Lessons For Life program enables teachers, primarily in special education, to use Friendship Circle’s village cityscape as their classroom to facilitate teaching and learning life skills in a safe, life-like and interactive environment. Life skills practiced include:

• Following Directions
• Safety Skills
• Time Management
• Money Management
• Decision Making
• Communication/Interpersonal Interactions
• Stress Management/Dealing With Change
• Socialization/Leisure and Recreation
• Employment
• Personal Hygiene/Healthy Living

The Lessons for Life Program Manager oversees all components of this program from beginning to end, including program set up and clean up, program facilitation, field trip scheduling, and communication with visiting schools. In addition, the Lessons for Life Program Manager is responsible for meeting program goals, and is a driving force in developing new and creative ideas to expand the reach of the program.

In addition to overseeing the Lessons for Life program, the Program Manager is also responsible for having a role in the planning and implementation of our summer camp programming.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Ensure visiting schools have a positive and beneficial experience while participating in the Lessons for Life program
• Maintain communication with interested schools, including providing program information, completing booking process, confirming field trip details, and being point of contact the day of field trip
• Develop and maintain relationships with visiting teachers and school personnel
• Provide orientation to visiting schools upon arrival
• Scale program to meet the various needs of visiting schools
• Oversee implementation and development of Lessons for Life curriculum and lesson plans
• Maintain inventory of various venues in Weinberg Village
• Complete daily set up, clean up, and restocking of Weinberg Village venues
• Assist village volunteers in their role as needed, promoting positive interactions between volunteers and students
• Oversee maintenance of Weinberg Village pet shop, including daily care of animals
• Develop surveys and evaluation tools to measure program effectiveness
• Maintain database and accurate records of Lessons for Life schools
• Spearhead new ideas for program growth and improvement

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in related field (social work, special education, psychology) preferred
• 4-6 years of experience in a related field
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Strong organization skills
• Ability to be a self-starter and work in a fast-paced environment
• Flexibility and ability to adapt to meet changing needs of visiting schools
• Comfortable being on feet for extended periods of time
• Empathy and patience
• Strong drive to meet program goals and continuously grow program reach
• Comfortable caring for small animals (guinea pigs, reptiles, etc)
• Experience working with the special needs population preferred, but not required

How to Apply

Ready to help shape life-changing educational experiences? Send your cover letter, resume, and references to julie@friendshipcircle.org with "Lessons for Life Program Manager Application” as the subject line. Join us and be part of a mission that values every individual and fosters community growth!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $45,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Ability to Commute:

• West Bloomfield Township, MI 48322 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $45,000 - $60,000