Community Initiatives Specialist

Position Summary

The Community Initiatives Specialist develops, coordinates, and oversees programs that support pet owners in need. This role is key in expanding access to pet care through low- to no-cost veterinary clinics, outreach events, coalition-building, and pet food distribution. The ideal candidate is a proactive, compassionate professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is committed to reducing barriers to pet ownership and keeping pets with their families.

Key Responsibilities

Program Coordination & Event Management

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee low- to no-cost Pet Care Clinics, both on and off-site, which include vaccinations, microchipping, and basic wellness services with a focus on the One Health model.
• Lead the planning and execution of Paws on the Ground outreach events, bringing pet care resources to individuals in crisis situations (e.g., unhoused communities or crisis-affected individuals).
• Develop and manage pet food pantry initiatives, including various distribution models such as on-site events, Pop-Up distribution events at partner sites, and delivery to non-present distribution sites.
• Coordinate logistics, staffing, and supplies for all community programs, ensuring seamless operations and high-quality service delivery.
• Conceptualize, implement, and support the development of additional community solutions that align with Animal Humane's strategic goals for the Pet Resource Center.
• Assist with data collection and analysis to assess program impact and identify areas for improvement.

Community Outreach & Coalition Building

• Build and maintain partnerships across sectors, including human service agencies, government entities, veterinary organizations, and community groups, to expand the shelter’s reach and impact.
• Serve as a key liaison between the shelter and community stakeholders, advocating for pet-inclusive solutions in social services and crisis response efforts.
• Represent the organization at community meetings, events, and collaborative workgroups to strengthen cross-sector partnerships.
• Develop outreach strategies to engage diverse communities and ensure equitable access to pet support services.

Volunteer & Staff Coordination

• Work closely with volunteers and staff to ensure adequate support for community initiatives.
• Train and supervise volunteers assisting with outreach events, clinics, and pet food distribution efforts.
• Foster a positive, mission-driven team culture that prioritizes compassion and inclusiveness.

Administrative & Other Duties

• Track program participation, client demographic data and needs, and resource distribution to measure impact.
• Assist with scheduled and on-time reporting by providing data, stories, and program updates.
• Manage budgets and resources to maximize program sustainability and reach.
• Assist with the running of other Community Programs as needed to ensure program continuity.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, nonprofit management, animal welfare, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 2 years of experience in program coordination, community outreach, or social services.
• Bilingual skills (Spanish, etc.) are a plus.

Desired Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of animal welfare, public health, and/or human services.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships across diverse communities.
• Experience working with underserved populations and a commitment to equitable service delivery.
• Comfortable working in outdoor and community-based settings, including crisis-affected areas.

Work Environment & Schedule

• This position requires flexibility, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate community events and outreach efforts.
• Work will take place in a mix of office, shelter, and field settings, including outdoor and mobile locations.
• Must be able to lift and carry supplies (up to 40 lbs.) and work in varying weather conditions.

Equal Employment Opportunity

• Animal Humane New Mexico is an equal opportunity employer and does not tolerate discrimination on any basis.
• We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Employee Acknowledgement

I have reviewed this job description, and I understand all my job duties and responsibilities. I can perform the essential functions as outlined. I understand that my job may change on a temporary or regular basis according to the needs of my location or department without it being specifically included in the job description. If I have any questions about job duties not specified on this description that I am asked to perform, I should discuss them with my immediate supervisor or a member of the Human Resources staff. I understand that a pre-employment background will be obtained by AHNM.

Animal Humane prohibits the possession, use or distribution of alcohol, cannabis, and unlawful illicit drugs by employees on Animal Humane’s site and/or while doing business for Animal Humane. Animal Humane may perform drug and alcohol tests for any reason at any time including the following: pre-employment, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, follow-up and random.

I further understand that future performance evaluations and merit increases to my pay are based on my ability to perform the duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description to the satisfaction of my immediate supervisor.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $21.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Rotating weekends

Work Location: In person

Salary : $21