Disaster Response Services (DRS) Program Manager

World Renew•Byron Center, MI

11d•Onsite

About The Position

The Disaster Response Service Program Manager plays a key role in coordinating World Renew’s three-week volunteer reconstruction program serving disaster-affected communities across North America. This position ensures effective volunteer deployment, fosters strong relationships with churches and community partners, and supports both long-term recovery and capacity-building initiatives. This role serves as a bridge between sending partners and local disaster recovery partners, enabling impactful volunteer engagement and sustainable recovery outcomes. The Program Manager supervises the Volunteer Program Administrative Assistant and collaborates closely with the DRS Director and Program Management Team to advance World Renew’s mission in disaster response.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; preferred fields include Disaster Management, Ministry, Nonprofit Leadership, or related field of study
Minimum of 3 years of experience in volunteer coordination, program management, or project management
Experience coordinating field logistics (e.g., travel, housing, safety protocols)
Active Christian faith and ability to affirm World Renew’s Statement of Faith
Strong communication and relationship-building skills across diverse audiences
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and volunteer management system
Ability and willingness to travel up to 20% within the U.S. and Canada
Knowledge of safeguarding principles and risk management practices

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with disaster response systems (e.g., VOAD, FEMA protocols, Core Humanitarian Standards)
Experience with faith-based organizations or service-learning programs
Basic knowledge of construction/home repair

Responsibilities

Recruit, train, and support volunteer leadership teams to oversee all aspects of DRS three-week reconstruction sites.
Collaborate with partners to plan volunteer deployments, ensuring logistics, training, and safety protocols are in place.
Maintain and update volunteer orientation materials and program tracking systems.
Ensure a high-quality volunteer experience through clear communication and ongoing support.
Recruit, orient, and deploy volunteer teams (individuals and couples) to serve in 2-3 week assignments.
Coordinate short-term Unmet Needs Assessment deployments in collaboration with local Long-Term Recovery Groups (LTGs), DRS staff, and volunteer leadership
Mobilize skilled volunteer teams and manage communications and logistics for timely deployment
Represent World Renew at VOAD, denominational gatherings, and public forums
Build and maintain partnerships with faith-based organizations, academic institutions, and emergency response networks
Promote and uphold safety and safeguarding standards for all volunteers and partners
Ensure compliance with Core Humanitarian Standards (CHS) and World Renew safeguarding policies
Supervise the Volunteer Program Administrative Assistant
Contribute to the DRS Program Management Team
Support cross-functional collaboration across departments
Foster a positive team culture by nurturing morale and spiritual well-being, demonstrating sound judgement, grace, and servant leadership