Careers

POSITION TITLE: Executive Director
REPORTS TO: Board of Directors
FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt, full time, 40 hours per week
LOCATION: Kern County, CA (in-person role)

About League of Dreams

League of Dreams is a nonprofit adaptive sports organization serving children and young adults (ages 5–22) with physical, developmental, and cognitive disabilities throughout Kern County. Our mission is to provide inclusive sports opportunities that empower every athlete to dream, play, and thrive—on and off the field. We serve more than 800 athletes each year across 11 sports programs, with the support of over 600 volunteers.

We are in an exciting season of growth, with long-term goals that include launching a capital campaign and securing a permanent facility. We are seeking a driven, heart-centered leader to take the organization to its next level of impact.

Position Summary

The Executive Director is the chief executive officer of League of Dreams and plays a highly active, hands-on role in every aspect of the organization’s operations and growth. In addition to overseeing staff, programs, and events, the Executive Director also serves as the organization’s lead fundraiser and community builder. The ED reports to the Board of Directors and works closely with community stakeholders, families, donors, and volunteers to ensure the mission and vision of League of Dreams are fulfilled with excellence and heart.

Key Responsibilities:

Organizational Leadership & Strategy

• Lead implementation of the strategic plan and long-term vision.
• Collaborate with the board to drive sustainable growth, including leading a future capital campaign for a permanent facility.
• Cultivate an inclusive and mission-driven culture across staff, volunteers, and the community.

Development & Fundraising (Primary Function)

• Serve as the chief fundraiser for the organization, leading all development efforts.
• Build and maintain relationships with individual donors, sponsors, and community partners.
• Write and manage grants and oversee donor communications and stewardship.
• Lead planning and execution of all fundraising events, campaigns, and sponsorship development.
  

Financial & Operational Oversight

• Manage day-to-day financial operations including accounts payable/receivable and budgeting.
• Work closely with the board treasurer on budget tracking and financial reporting.
• Ensure organizational compliance with nonprofit and state regulations.
  

Program & Event Execution

• Support staff with program registration, logistics, and delivery.
• Oversee all aspects of special events with support from full-time staff and volunteers.
• Evaluate program success and impact through participant and family feedback.
  

Staff & Volunteer Leadership

• Directly supervise two full-time staff members.
• Cultivate a supportive, organized, and collaborative team culture.
• Lead volunteer engagement strategy in partnership with staff.
  

Community Engagement & Outreach

• Serve as the public face of League of Dreams in the community and media.
• Expand relationships in underserved communities to reach new families and volunteers.
• Build awareness and engagement through presentations, networking, and partnerships.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience in a nonprofit or closely related role.
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, donor cultivation, and event planning.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing budgets and basic accounting.
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills.
• Deep commitment to inclusion and working with individuals with disabilities.
• Must be a self-starter, highly motivated, and proactive in finding solutions and driving growth.
• Experience working with a board of directors and leading a small team.
• Must pass a background check and be CPR certified or willing to obtain certification.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading a capital campaign or overseeing facility development.
• Knowledge of the Kern County nonprofit or disability services landscape.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) a plus.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary commensurate with experience
• Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, and a 401(k) plan