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OPPORTUNITY
FriendshipWorks' mission is to reduce social isolation, enhance quality of life and preserve the dignity of older adults in Greater Boston. The next Executive Director (ED) will lead FriendshipWorks as these issues continue to be more visible nationally in the coming years. Supported by strong relationships with aligned providers and community partners and dedicated, knowledgeable staff and board, this is a unique opportunity for a passionate, strong leader with excellent external relations skills to be a trailblazer in the field and take FriendshipWorks to new heights.
The next ED will continue to lead an organization with a well-developed, unique model and 40 years of expertise and thought leadership in elder care. Founded on the belief that our lives are interdependent, and that we all need connection at every age and stage of life, FriendshipWorks brings awareness to the impact of social isolation, ageism, and the restorative power of friendship while preserving dignity and uplifting the value of elders in society.
ORGANIZATION
FriendshipWorks provides a range of services, programs, and resources to create social connection, reduce isolation, and build community among older adults FriendshipWorks operates five core programs across Greater Boston. Its cornerstone program, Friendly Visiting, provides human connections for elders one-on-one in their homes and matches volunteers with older adults for meaningful friendships to help alleviate isolation and create community. Other core programs include Medical Escort (accompaniment to doctor visits), Friendly Helping (assistance with tasks or errands), PetPals and MusicWorks (both providing group socialization for shared interests). FriendshipWorks serves the geographies of Boston, Brookline, Newton, Somerville, and Cambridge. In addition to this programming, FriendshipWorks continually re-evaluates the needs of older adults and creates, often with other community partners, targeted initiatives aligned with their mission. For example, FriendshipWorks has tailored social isolation interventions specifically designed for Elders with Low Vision and Elders of all identities (LGBTQ+).
FriendshipWorks is a $1.8M organization governed by a board of 10 and led by a team of 15 full/part time staff. Volunteers are critical to the success of FriendshipWorks. The organization is supported by over 600 engaged volunteers who provide friendship, advocacy, education, assistance, and emotional support to isolated older adults. Serving more than 1,800 program participants annually, FriendshipWorks has enriched the lives of over 40,000 elders since its inception. EQUITY STATEMENT
THE ROLE
The next leader of FriendshipWorks will build upon a solid foundation and brand developed by the founding ED. The new ED will continue the work with an organization that is in an optimal position to level up, grow, and expand both financially and geographically. Key factors supporting success include untapped funding opportunities for improved financial sustainability, broad and diverse populations served, vast institutional knowledge, a passion for addressing loneliness and social isolation, a large volunteer force, and impact that is directly and immediately visible and experienced at both an individual and systemic level.
Priorities
The ED will ensure operational excellence and a smooth transition while gaining an understanding of institutional knowledge and strengthen relationships with key stakeholders.
Reporting to the Board of Directors, the ED provides overall leadership and management of FriendshipWorks and is responsible for all operations of the organization, including program development and implementation. The new ED will enable the senior management team to run the day-to-day operations while representing the organization in the community, strengthening current relationships and cultivating new connections. Responsibilities of the role include:
The next ED will work collaboratively with staff and board to secure sustainable partnerships and funding sources, identify opportunities to grow and expand mission, enhance decision-making across the organization, maintain connections with internal and external partners, and serve as the spokesperson for FriendshipWorks.
FriendshipWorks understands that candidates rarely meet 100% of the qualifications. We strongly encourage candidates, both locally and from outside the region, in particular people from underrepresented backgrounds, to apply if they meet many of the qualifications.
Passion for the Mission
Fundraising & Resource Development
Leadership & Management
Strategic Visioning, Planning & Evaluation
Relationship Cultivation
Communication
In addition to the above qualifications, key attributes of the next ED include building trust, collaboration, innovation, initiative and compassion. The ED will embody and carry forward FriendshipWorks core values: Connectedness, Joy & Comfort, Mutuality, Curiosity, Trust, Empathy, Collaboration.
HOW TO APPLY
This search is being conducted in partnership with TSNE. All submissions receive an acknowledgment and are confidential within the search committee and TSNE. Electronic submissions sent through the above link are preferred.
Candidates should include a resume or profile summary that displays their skills and experiences, as well as a cover letter describing their interest and how their qualifications and experience match the needs and mission of FriendshipWorks. Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply early; the position will remain open, and applications accepted until the right candidate is identified. The FriendshipWorks Search Committee will review applications and candidates who are selected to move forward in the hiring process will be notified. Questions may be directed to TSNE Search Consultant, Jodi Dowling.
Based in Boston, MA, the Executive Director position is a full-time exempt position with flex work time out of the office (in the field/from home). A regional presence to Boston, and a willingness to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings and weekends, is required. FriendshipWorks offers a benefits package including health insurance up to 85% coverage, paid time off, and a Simple IRA with up to 3% matching. Salary is competitive with relevant experience, within the framework of the organization’s annual operating budget, and in the approximate range of $135-160,000.
FriendshipWorks strives to create a diverse and inclusive culture where everyone feels welcome and supported. FriendshipWorks is an equal opportunity employer providing opportunities without regard to race, color, national origin, religion or creed, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status recognized by federal, state or local law with respect to employment opportunities. Individuals from underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply.
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