Advocacy Program Manager

Fifth Circuit CASA Program | CASA of Northeastern South Dakota

Location: Aberdeen, South Dakota
Position Type: Full-Time, Salaried
Schedule: 40 hours per week
Annual Salary: $41,600
Benefits: Sanford Simplicity health insurance with a $3,500 deductible, Dental and vision insurance, Life insurance, Employer IRA match of up to 3%, Paid time off (PTO), Paid holidays, Employment eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), subject to program requirements

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About Fifth Circuit CASA

The Fifth Circuit CASA Program advocates for the best interests of children involved in abuse and neglect proceedings throughout northeastern South Dakota. Our trained CASA volunteers provide consistent, child-centered advocacy, helping ensure children's needs, safety, and well-being remain a priority throughout the court process.

We are seeking a motivated, organized, and self-directed Program Manager to support our growing program, strengthen volunteer engagement, and help ensure children receive consistent and effective advocacy.

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Position Summary

The Program Manager supports the day-to-day operations of the CASA program, with a primary focus on volunteer recruitment, training, retention, and case-related support. This position works closely with CASA volunteers, the Executive Director, court personnel, Department of Social Services, attorneys, and community partners to promote positive outcomes for children.

The ideal candidate is proactive, adaptable, and comfortable managing multiple responsibilities independently. They should be able to build strong relationships, recognize potential barriers, take initiative in resolving challenges, and provide dependable support to volunteers navigating complex cases.

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Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree.

• Must be 21 or older

• At least two years of experience working with children, case management, volunteer management, training, or related experience.

• Strong organizational, communication, problem-solving, and written communication skills.

• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage multiple responsibilities and deadlines.

• Ability to handle sensitive information professionally and maintain confidentiality.

• Reliable transportation

• Ability to successfully complete required background and registry checks.

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Preferred Qualifications

• Licensed social worker or a strong history of volunteer management, including recruitment, retention, engagement, and supervision.

• Experience working with at-risk youth, children in foster care, or within the court system.

• Experience supporting individuals and families navigating complex systems, including child welfare, behavioral health, education, or social services.

• Familiarity with trauma-informed practices, child development, and advocacy for vulnerable populations.

• Experience preparing professional reports, maintaining case documentation, or coordinating services across multiple agencies.

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Key Responsibilities

Volunteer Recruitment, Training, and Retention

• Assist with recruiting, screening, onboarding, and training CASA volunteers.

• Build positive relationships with volunteers and provide ongoing guidance, resources, and support.

• Promote volunteer engagement, satisfaction, and long-term retention.

• Help coordinate training sessions, continuing education, volunteer recognition, and program events.

• Identify volunteer needs and proactively address barriers to participation and effective advocacy.

Case and Court Support

• Monitor active cases and help ensure case-related tasks, documentation, and court reports are completed accurately and within required deadlines.

• Assist CASA volunteers with court report preparation, documentation, and questions related to their cases.

• Help volunteers identify children's needs and connect with appropriate services and resources.

• Maintain regular communication with volunteers regarding case progress, upcoming hearings, and follow-up responsibilities.

• Coordinate with the Executive Director, attorneys, DSS, court personnel, and other professionals as appropriate.

• Support continuity of advocacy when cases, placements, or volunteer assignments change.

Program Operations and Administration

• Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential case files, volunteer records, and program documentation.

• Assist with program reporting, data collection, quality assurance, and compliance with applicable policies, procedures, and court agreements.

• Help identify areas for improvement and implement processes that strengthen program efficiency.

• Assist with community outreach, volunteer recruitment initiatives, fundraising events, and partnership development as needed.

• Take initiative in managing competing priorities and identifying tasks that need attention without relying on constant direction.

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What We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone who takes ownership of their responsibilities, follows through consistently, and recognizes what needs to be done without waiting to be asked. The right candidate will be a dependable team member who can anticipate needs, develop solutions, communicate effectively, and provide meaningful support to CASA volunteers and the children they serve.

This is an opportunity for someone who wants to make a tangible difference in the lives of children while helping strengthen and grow a developing nonprofit program.

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How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a résumé and cover letter outlining their relevant experience and interest in the position. This can be done by using this form or sending it to:

Gloria Hutson, Executive Director
Fifth Circuit CASA Program
gloria@nesdcasa.org
www.nesdcasa.org