Community Program Specialist
Ho-Chunk, Inc. Job Description
Job Title: Community Program Specialist
Business Title: Community Program Specialist
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Leading Tier: Leading Self
Pay Grade: Ao1
SUMMARY
The Community Program Specialist supports Ho-Chunk, Inc.’s mission by coordinating community-focused programs, initiatives, and partnerships that connect Winnebago community members to education, pathways to generational wealth, and organizational resources. This role serves as a key liaison between Ho-Chunk, Inc., community partners, and internal stakeholders, ensuring that programs and outreach efforts align with business needs, community priorities, and organizational values set forth by Ho-Chunk Capital and the Winnebago Tribe of NE.
The position plays an important role in supporting education and community engagement initiatives, while also providing administrative and project coordination support to the Ho-Chunk Capital and Community Impact and Engagement teams.
This role will also serve as the primary coordinator and program owner for the Homebuyer’s Program. The Community Program Specialist will become knowledgeable in all aspects of the program, actively promote it within the community, and facilitate discussions that help community members understand and access pathways to home ownership. The role will work closely with lenders, financial partners, and potential homebuyers to guide participants through the program and support them in reaching the goal of successful home ownership.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Collaborate with internal departments and external partners to create, support and coordinate community-based programs, initiatives, and events. Included, but not limited to WTN and it’s affiliated programs, WPS, HCCDC, and Twelve Clans Unity Hospital.
- Assist in managing education, or apprenticeship-related programs to increase awareness of career and learning opportunities within Ho-Chunk, Inc.
- Ensure assigned programs and projects align with organizational goals, community needs, and business priorities.
- Serve as the primary coordinator and program owner for the Homebuyer’s Program, developing a strong working knowledge of program requirements, processes, and resources.
- Promote the Homebuyer’s Program within the community by organizing and leading informational sessions, workshops, and community discussions.
- Work directly with participating lenders, financial partners, and potential homebuyers to help guide participants through the homebuying process and program requirements.
- Support prospective participants in navigating program steps, maintaining communication, and progressing toward successful home ownership.
- Monitor program participation, track progress of participants, and assist in identifying opportunities to strengthen the program and improve outcomes.
- Utilize project management tools and systems to organize, track, and execute assigned initiatives within established timelines.
- Maintain accurate and organized records related to programs, events, participation, and outcomes.
- Assist in preparing reports, summaries, and updates related to program participation, outcomes, and progress for internal and external stakeholders.
- Coordinate volunteers, guest speakers, meetings, site visits/tours, or community events as needed.
- Support outreach efforts, including assistance with community communications or social media content related to programs and events.
- Serve as a positive representative of Ho-Chunk, Inc. within the Winnebago community.
- Provide administrative and logistical support to the Ho-Chunk Capital team
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS
- Working knowledge of standard office software, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation tools.
- Ability to communicate effectively using multiple methods, including phone, email, text, in-person and virtual platforms.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Demonstrated professionalism, discretion, and ability to handle sensitive or confidential information.
- Ability to read, write, and communicate clearly in one-on-one, small and large group settings. Preferred experience with Toastmasters or similar program(s)
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective working relationships with diverse groups.
- Valid driver’s license and ability to be insured under the company’s insurance program.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree preferred, with 0–2 years of related experience.
- Relevant experience working in community programs, education, workforce development, or related fields may be considered in lieu of formal education.
- Participation in internal leadership or development programs.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
- May provide coordination or oversight of program participants, interns, or volunteers as assigned.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position primarily operates in a professional office environment and routinely uses standard office equipment. Some duties may require attendance at community events or activities, including outdoor settings.
Our Values: Native American Owned & Proud | Accountable | Team Focused | Innovative | Visionary | Excellence
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear, stand, walk, and use hands and arms. Occasional lifting of items up to 30 pounds may be required.
AAP/EEO Statement
Ho-Chunk, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. However, preference may be extended to persons of Indian descent in accordance with applicable laws.
JD Supplement
Job Title: Community Program Specialist
Department: Ho-Chunk Capital
Reports To: Business Operations Manager, Ho-Chunk Capital
Primary Work Location: Winnebago, NE
Work Comp Code: To Be Determined
ROLE/LOCATION SPECIFIC ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
- Support community engagement efforts specific to the Winnebago community.
- Serve as a liaison between Ho-Chunk, Inc. and community organizations, schools, and partners.
- Assist with planning and participation in community meetings, events, and outreach activities.
POSITION TYPE/EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK
- Full-time position
- Days and hours of work may vary based on program and event needs. Some weekends may be required
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
- Local travel within the Winnebago area is expected.
- Occasional out-of-area travel may be required.
Regular commute to primary work location is not considered travel.
CLEARANCE/LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
- Valid driver’s license required.
- Must meet company insurance requirements.
NOTE: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities,
