Individual Placement - Programming Coordinator chez Friends of the Walkway

Position Summary 

Friends of the Walkway is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit group that works to activate and improve Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park. Through our staff and volunteers, Walkway Over the Hudson activates the unique public space year-round through events and programming. Currently, Walkway’s volunteer program consists of 150 committed “Ambassadors” who help staff two gift shops that sell merchandise and provide visitor information, run a tram system that provides free rides for those with limited mobility, guide historical walks and educational programs on the bridge, assist with special events, and more.

The Programming Coordinator will expand the educational materials and offerings of the Walkway through coordination of tours, training of volunteers giving tours, and oversight of youth programs. This person will also build partnerships with local youth organizations and schools by reaching out personally, attending tabling events, and networking with retired teacher organizations.

Location 

Poughkeepsie, NY

Schedule 

January 26, 2026 - November 23, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

Tour Coordination
• Manage all aspects of booking tours, including inquiries, contracts, scheduling, and follow-ups.
• Coordinate docent assignments, send reminders, and distribute post-tour surveys.
• Track and analyze survey responses with support from volunteers.

Docent Training and Recruitment
• Recruit, train, and grow the docent base in collaboration with the Volunteer Manager.
• Lead docent training sessions for new volunteers.
• Serve as an on-staff docent and educator, giving tours or filling in when needed.

Youth Program Development
• Partner with Poughkeepsie liaisons to deliver free youth programs aligned with grant funding.
• Track grant requirements and deadlines with the Volunteer Manager and Executive Director.
• Create new materials and resources to strengthen the Explorer program.
• Oversee and collaborate with the Explorer Committee volunteer group.
• Collaborate with the Connections Committee to find presenters for a monthly kids series
• Provide 2-3 kids programs on the Walkway each season

Outreach & Partnerships
• Build relationships with local schools, organizations, and businesses to expand tours and programs.
• Represent Walkway at community festivals, events, and networking opportunities.
• Develop systems and resources to enable volunteers to assist with outreach activities.

Goal 1: Track meticulously all aspects of coordinating tours including but not limited to communication, paperwork and data tracking, volunteer recruitment and assignment, and follow up.

Goal 2: Increase the capacity of the Walkway to deliver more tours and youth programming by growing our base of volunteer educators.

Goal 3: Coordinate with the Explorer Committee and oversee all aspects of the Explorer Program including tracking requirements for the Poughkeepsie Youth Grant.

Goal 4: Expand the reach and awareness of youth programs on the Walkway within the local community.

Marginal Duties 

As Needed
• Assist with coordinating aspects of events including prepping materials, set up, clean up, etc.
• Assist with special evening and weekend programs

Required Qualifications 

Members must have a four-year degree and/or qualifying experience.
Valid drivers license with a clean driving record of 3+ years
Must be able to work outside for long periods of time and be able to assist with the set up and break down of events including the ability to pick up 20 lbs. Must have excellent customer service and organizational skills.
Successful candidates will thrive within a small, hands-on nonprofit environment and demonstrate a passion for Walkway’s mission. Top candidates will have the following personal qualities and professional capabilities:

-Excellent organizational, time management, and critical thinking skills. Ability to work productively in a fast-paced, high-energy environment with frequent changes.
-Solid communication skills. Ability to connect easily with new people.
-Experience working with and educating children
-Strong work ethic with the ability to work collaboratively with a team as well as independently.
-Experience using database management software, and Microsoft Office applications
-Ability to perform strenuous physical tasks under adverse weather and field conditions.

As a representative of the Walkway, the member is expected to be friendly and approachable and have the ability to work well with children as well as adults. This person will spend time greeting and interacting with visitors, answering questions, and providing information, as well as a significant amount of time giving or assisting with tours and programs for children
-Willingness to work some weekends, holidays, and evenings each month

Preferred Qualifications 

-Experience with working with organizations
-Experience working with volunteers
-Experience with and enthusiasm for working with children and giving programs/ leading tours.
-Positive attitude, enthusiasm, and desire to learn
-Experience driving large machinery or a truck
-Fluent Spanish speaker

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

Member will be provided free accommodations by Walkway - inquire further for more information

Compensation  

• Amount of the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award being offered for successful completion of the member’s term of service in 2025: $7,395.00; 2026 Amount TBD
• Amount of Living Allowance member will receive:
  $440/week
• Free housing provided

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

Additional Benefits 

Defensive Drive Training
Health Insurance
AmeriCorps: Eligible/Required

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.