Client Programs & Engagement Coordinator

Organizational Description
Dakota Woodlands is a nonprofit organization based in Eagan, MN. It is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for families experiencing homelessness. Our mission is to empower individuals to achieve stability and independence through comprehensive support and compassionate care. We offer housing, resources, and programs designed to help families rebuild their lives and succeed. Clients at Dakota Woodlands receive nutritious meals, private bedrooms, personal care products, seasonal clothing, and opportunities to develop essential life skills through targeted case management and family goal planning, which enables their independent success.

Position Overview
The Client Programs & Engagement Coordinator is responsible for developing, coordinating, and facilitating programs that support the stability, growth, and well-being of families residing at Dakota Woodlands. This role focuses on implementing structured programming for both adults and children, coordinating community partners and volunteers who bring programs into the shelter, and ensuring that programs align with client goal plans developed through case management.

The coordinator will collaborate closely with the Director of Housing & Supportive Services, Case Managers, and the Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator to ensure the delivery of high-quality, engaging programs that help families reach self-sufficiency. This role will support evening programming and oversee childcare volunteers and the evening and weekend Client Support Staff during program activities to ensure safe, structured, and engaging experiences for families.

The ideal candidate is organized, collaborative, creative, and passionate about working with families experiencing homelessness.

Why Work for Dakota Woodlands?
Dakota Woodlands envisions a community where families in crisis receive the support they need to regain stability, achieve self-sufficiency, and build a strong foundation for their future. Our mission is to empower families experiencing homelessness by providing shelter, supportive services, and access to community resources that promote long-term stability.

Our core values guide our work and define our commitment to families:

Compassion: Providing trauma-informed, client-centered care.

Dignity: Respecting the strengths and potential of every family.

Collaboration: Partnering internally and with the community to enhance services.

Accountability: Upholding transparency, integrity, and high standards in service delivery.

Innovation: Continuously improving to meet the evolving needs of families.

Areas of Responsibility:                                                               

Program Development & Implementation

Coordinate and facilitate structured programming for both adults and children living at Dakota Woodlands.

Establish a structured, engaging evening and weekend program for families at the shelter.

Create workshops and activities that support life skills, parenting, financial literacy, employment readiness, and personal growth.

Coordinate youth programming, including after-school activities, enrichment programs, tutoring, childcare, and family engagement activities.

Support implementation of trauma-informed programming that aligns with Dakota Woodlands’ client-centered approach.

Coordinate and supervise childcare volunteers during youth programs and family engagement activities.

Work with Case Managers to align programming with individual client goal plans.

Community Partnerships & Volunteer Programming

Coordinate external organizations, nonprofits, and community partners that offer programming within the shelter.

Collaborate with the Volunteer & Outreach Coordinator to organize volunteers, workshops, and enrichment activities.

Assist in establishing relationships with community organizations, churches, and service providers that can provide programs for clients.

Help ensure that outside programs are well-organized, safe, and aligned with Dakota Woodlands' mission.

Client Engagement & Community Building

Plan and coordinate client engagement events and activities that build community within the shelter.

Coordinate seasonal and special events such as:

Back-to-school events

Holiday programs and drives

Family celebrations

Youth enrichment activities

Support family participation and encourage engagement in programming opportunities.

Program Coordination & Staff Support

Coordinate evening programs and activities.

Oversee and coordinate evening and weekend Client Support Staff during program activities.

Oversee and coordinate childcare volunteers supporting youth programs and activities.

Collaborate with Case Managers to ensure programs promote client progress and engagement.

Help maintain a positive, engaging environment for families in the shelter.

Program Tracking & Data Management

Monitor participation and attendance at programs and workshops.

Maintain records of programming activities and items distributed to clients.

Support program data entry and reporting to help evaluate program outcomes.

Assist leadership in identifying program trends and areas for improvement.

Additional Responsibilities

Assist with program-related logistics, scheduling, and planning.

Support shelter activities that promote client stability and engagement.

Participate in staff meetings, program planning, and team collaboration.

Provide occasional evening and weekend program support as needed.

Perform additional duties as assigned to support Dakota Woodlands’ mission.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Education, Community Development, or a related field preferred

Experience coordinating programs, activities, or services for families, youth, or community groups

Experience working in social services, nonprofit organizations, shelters, or community programs preferred

Strong organizational and coordination skills

Ability to manage multiple activities and partnerships simultaneously

Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Ability to work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and community partners

Ability to support a trauma-informed and client-centered service environment

Proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic data entry systems

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience working with families experiencing homelessness

Experience coordinating volunteers or community partnerships

Experience facilitating workshops, life skills programming, or youth activities

Knowledge of trauma-informed care and family-centered programming

Working Conditions

Full-time position based at Dakota Woodlands in Eagan, Minnesota

Preferred working hours: 10 AM – 6 PM, 11 AM – 7 PM, or 12 PM – 8 PM

Evening and occasional weekend hours required to support programming and special events

The role may involve moderate physical activity, including setting up events and moving supplies

Additional Information: 

Benefits include Medical, Dental, Retirement, Short-Term Disability (STD), Long-Term Disability (LTD), Paid Time Off (PTO), and paid holidays.

How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications and interest in the position to [email protected].

Dakota Woodlands is an equal opportunity employer. Opportunities for employment are available to all persons, regardless of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, marital status, or status with regard to public assistance. Dakota Woodland’s facilities are accessible. Individuals who have experienced homelessness are encouraged to apply.