Volunteer Programs Director

This is a remote position based in Houston or Austin, with occasional in-person workdays depending on the candidate's location.

The Texas Humane Legislation Network (THLN) is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the humane treatment of animals through legislation and advocacy. Founded in 1975 by a small group of committed advocates, THLN has spent five decades advancing laws that protect animals across Texas. Our work is powered by a strong volunteer leadership team, an engaged Board of Directors, and a statewide ambassador network.

Position Overview

The Volunteer Programs Director leads THLN's grassroots advocacy, volunteer engagement, recruitment, and educational programming. This role is central to expanding THLN's reach, strengthening community involvement, and supporting revenue growth through volunteer-driven initiatives.

The Director serves as the staff lead for major advocacy events, statewide volunteer activities, and ambassador engagement. The position reports directly to the Executive Director and collaborates closely with THLN's sister organization, the Texas Humane Network 501(c)(3), particularly between legislative sessions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive volunteer engagement platform.
• Lead recruitment, outreach, and educational initiatives in partnership with the Executive Director, Chapter Presidents, and Board of Directors.
• Maintain and update the Ambassador Handbook.
• Support ambassadors statewide to ensure effective outreach, advocacy, and legislative engagement.

Advocacy & Events Leadership

• Serve as staff lead for District Lobby Days, coordinating volunteers, programming, and logistics.
• Lead THLN's signature advocacy events, including Unleash Change and Humane Lobby Day.
• Organize and support the annual brunch/dinner volunteer committee; collaborate with the Executive Director and Director of Development to execute event plans.

Program & Organizational Support

• Work with the marketing and communications team to increase visibility and promote programs and events.
• Manage budgets to ensure outreach initiatives and events are fiscally responsible.
• Maintain statewide legislative and constituent support as directed by the Executive Director and Senior Director of Government Affairs.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; 5-7 years of relevant community/volunteer experience may substitute.
• 3-5 years of experience managing volunteers, programs, and events.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with staff, volunteers, and stakeholders at all levels.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and comfort with databases and digital tools.
• Excellent time-management skills; able to prioritize and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to travel locally and occasionally overnight (2-3 nights as needed).
• Ability to work evenings and weekends during peak periods (events, legislative session).
• Solid understanding of THLN's advocacy issues.
• Self-starter with strong critical-thinking skills and a collaborative mindset.
• Primarily remote; 1-2 in-office days may be requested depending on candidate location.

Texas Humane Legislation Network is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics or status.