Volunteer Coordinator (Contract)

The Volunteer Coordinator (contract) supports the recruitment, training, scheduling, communicating with, and retaining volunteers for the National Cherry Blossom Festival. This position serves as the primary day-to-day point of contact for volunteers and assists with volunteer operations across Festival programs and signature events. The Volunteer Coordinator ensures volunteers have a positive experience while supporting the Festival’s mission of producing world-class events that celebrate the gift of the cherry trees and promote civic pride, cultural exchange, and community engagement. 

This position is anticipated to start January 4, 2027 and conclude May 15, 2027.

Essential Responsibilities 

Volunteer Recruitment & Onboarding 

• Assist with volunteer recruitment campaigns through community organizations,
• Support volunteer interviews and screening processes
• Coordinate volunteer onboarding materials and orientation logistics 

Volunteer Communications 

• Draft and distribute volunteer newsletters, event updates, reminders, and announcements
• Monitor volunteer email accounts and respond to questions in a timely manner
• Support management of volunteer communication platforms and social media groups
• Ensure volunteers receive accurate event information, schedules, and training materials 

Volunteer Scheduling & Database Management 

• Maintain accurate volunteer records in the Festival’s volunteer management system
• Track volunteer registrations, assignments, attendance, and service hours
• Generate volunteer rosters and event staffing reports
• Assist with volunteer shift scheduling and coverage needs
• Support volunteer credential distribution 

Event Operations Support 

• Help coordinate volunteer staffing for Festival signature events and community programs
• Support event-day volunteer operations, including check-in, training, deployment, and troubleshooting
• Serve as a liaison between volunteers and Festival staff during events 

Volunteer Engagement & Recognition 

• Assist with planning volunteer appreciation and recognition programs
• Help coordinate volunteer kickoff events and training sessions
• Gather volunteer feedback and assist with post-event evaluations 

Administrative Support 

• Prepare reports on volunteer participation and engagement metrics
• Assist with data entry, correspondence, and other administrative tasks
• Support the Volunteer Manager with special projects as assigned 

Qualifications 

Required 

• 1–3 years of experience in volunteer coordination, event management, nonprofit administration, customer service, or related fields
• Strong organizational and administrative skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
• Experience using CRM databases, spreadsheets, and online collaboration tools
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required during Festival season 

Preferred 

• Experience managing volunteers for events or nonprofit organizations
• Familiarity with volunteer management software
• Experience coordinating large public events
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience 

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during Festival events
• Ability to lift and carry materials up to 25 pounds
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions 

Time Commitment:

Part-time: January, February, and May, 2027
Full-time: March and April 2027

Required evening and weekend availability: 

• Pink Tie Party – Friday, March 12
• Opening Ceremony – Saturday, March 20
• Blossom Kite Festival – Saturday, March 27
• Night in Bloom – Friday, April 2
• Petalpalooza – Saturday, April 3
• Oxon Run Pinknic – Sunday, April 4
• National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade – Saturday, April 10