Penn State University · 2 months ago
Part-time Franklin County 4-H Therapeutic Riding Center Program Director
Penn State University is seeking a Program Director for the Franklin County 4-H Therapeutic Riding Center. The role involves collaborating with educators and staff to implement therapeutic riding lessons, manage instructors, and ensure program growth and sustainability.
Higher Education
Responsibilities
Collaborate with the Advisory Council to develop long-term strategies and annual plans that support the sustainability and growth of the program
Lead and manage public relations and fundraising initiatives, including website and social media oversight, community networking, and public presentations
Actively evaluate and implement operational efficiency measures to streamline operations to optimize resources, including Penn State 4-H staff
Collaborate in the development of the annual budget, oversee accounts payable and receivable, and complete all required financial paperwork in accordance with Penn State policy
Recruit, train, and evaluate therapeutic riding and driving instructors annually. Address performance concerns and, if necessary, manage dismissal procedures
Conduct parent/guardian meetings on participant objectives, teaching methods, and progress in instruction. Participate in horse selection decisions in collaboration with the Stable Manager and Lead Riding Instructor
Participate in horse selection decisions in collaboration with the Stable Manager and Lead Riding Instructor
Annually review and update the following in coordination with the 4-H Educator: Franklin County 4-H Therapeutic Riding Center Policy and Procedures Manual, Parent Handbook, Volunteer Handbook, and Rider and Volunteer Application Forms
Assist in coordinating volunteer training and lesson scheduling with instructors, the Barn Manager, and the Volunteer Coordinator
Provide guidance and support to the Stable Manager regarding horse care, including feeding, veterinary, farrier, and dental services
Under the direction of the 4-H Educator, provide on-site supervision for the following Therapeutic Riding Center personnel: Volunteer Coordinator, Stable Manager, Riding Instructors, Facilities & Maintenance Volunteer
Collaborate with the 4-H Educator to address and, if necessary, dismiss volunteers who violate the Penn State 4-H Volunteer Leader Code of Conduct
Engage in ongoing professional development related to the therapeutic riding program
Attend Advisory Council, Operations Committee, and Penn State Extension – Franklin County staff meetings. Co-develop meeting agendas with the Advisory Council President and Operations Committee Chair
Perform other responsibilities as assigned by the 4-H Youth Development Educator or Area Business Operations Manager to support program success
Qualification
Required
Proven success in fundraising and public relations
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with volunteers, youth, families, and the general public
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Proficiency in information technology and digital communication tools
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism
Highly organized, self-motivated, and capable of working independently and collaboratively within a team environment
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check
A valid driver's license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks
Preferred
Bachelor's degree in Equine Facilitated Therapeutics, Business Administration, or related field preferred
PATH International or CECTH Therapeutic Riding Instructor Certification preferred
Experience with zSuite, SIMBA, and Outlook software preferred
Company
Penn State University
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