What are the responsibilities and job description for the Program Director position at My Autism Connection, Inc.?
Company Description
My Autism Connection (MAC) is a 501(c)(3) member-driven organization that offers services for autistic adults aged 18 and older. Serving Southwest Florida with a home office in Ft. Myers and expanding into Tampa, MAC connects individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to their communities through social and hands-on learning experiences designed to build healthy relationships and foster independence in life and work. Our mission is to provide autistic adults with opportunities to transition from dependence to independence by focusing on social engagement, skill-building, and career development.
Position Summary
We are seeking a Program Coordinator to oversee and support the planning, organization, and delivery of MAC's programs and events. The Program Coordinator will be responsible for managing daily operations, supporting members, supervising volunteers, and collaborating with community partners to ensure effective programming. The ideal candidate will be organized, compassionate, and have a strong understanding of working with autistic adults.
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate and oversee the day-to-day operations of MAC programs, events, workshops, and community outings.
- Develop, schedule, and facilitate social, educational, and career development activities for members.
- Support and supervise members during in-person activities, ensuring a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment.
- Collaborate with the Executive Director to assess program effectiveness, identify areas for improvement, and implement enhancements.
- Communicate effectively with members, families, staff, volunteers, and community partners to promote program engagement and understanding.
- Assist with administrative tasks, including maintaining attendance records, program documentation, correspondence, and reports.
- Manage program-related purchases, track expenses, and support budgeting processes.
- Recruit, train, and oversee volunteers and interns who assist with programming.
- Conduct basic research to identify resources, partnership opportunities, and best practices to enhance programming.
- Act as a positive role model and advocate for autistic adults, fostering their growth in social, life, and employment-related skills.
- Attend staff meetings and contribute to organizational planning and development.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Services, Education, Behavioral Sciences, or a related field.
- Certification as a Behavior Specialist is a plus.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication abilities.
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment.
- Solid administrative and clerical skills, including proficiency with email, spreadsheets, and basic documentation.
- Budgeting and research skills to assist with program planning and purchases.
- Patience, creativity, and adaptability when supporting autistic adults in various settings.
- Experience working with autistic individuals.
- Supervisory and/or instructional support experience.
Preferred Skills & Attributes
- Passion for working with neurodiverse populations and a commitment to empowering autistic adults.
- Compassionate and understanding approach toward neurodivergent individuals.
- Dependability and consistency in supporting ongoing programs.
- Ability to think critically, solve problems, and adjust to evolving needs.
- Professionalism and integrity when representing MAC in the community.
- Comfortable working in dynamic settings, including community-based environments.
- Enthusiasm for contributing to a growing nonprofit organization and making a meaningful impact in the community.
Why Join Us?
Working at MAC means being part of a mission-driven team that’s making a real impact. You’ll have the opportunity to work directly with members, help grow innovative programs, and support individuals in reaching their goals toward greater independence. The Program Director will be instrumental in fostering relationships, and ensuring that MAC continues to meet the evolving needs of the autistic community as we expand.
Help with Organizational Expansion
- Helping to increase membership numbers by supporting high-quality programs that attract and retain autistic adults seeking meaningful connections and skill-building opportunities.
- Assisting in the development and delivery of virtual programs that expand our reach beyond Southwest Florida, ensuring accessibility and inclusion for members in new regions such as Tampa and beyond.
- Contributing to MAC’s mission to empower autistic adults by ensuring our programs and member experiences align with our vision for long-term, sustainable growth.