Overview:

The Executive Director serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering children living with Type 1 diabetes through life-changing camp experiences. The organization provides safe, supportive, and educational programs where campers learn diabetes management skills, build confidence, and form lasting connections.

The Executive Director is responsible for advancing this mission by ensuring continued program growth, financial sustainability, and strong community partnerships. This role combines visionary leadership with hands-on management, overseeing all operations including strategic planning, fundraising, community outreach, staff leadership, and fiscal oversight, while fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.

Leadership

• Provide strategic direction to grow enrollment, strengthen camper retention, and expand the organization’s reach and impact within the Type 1 diabetes community.
• Develop and execute short- and long-term plans that support mission advancement, financial stability, and operational excellence.
• Serve as a creative and forward-thinking leader who identifies new opportunities for partnerships, programs, and efficiencies.
• Collaborate closely with the Executive Committee and Board of Trustees to set goals, measure progress, and make data-informed decisions that drive growth and sustainability.

Program & Community Engagement

• Oversee all camp and diabetes education programming to ensure safety, quality, and a positive participant experience.
• Maintain strong partnerships with healthcare agencies, hospitals, diabetes clinics, schools, and community organizations to support referrals, collaboration, and outreach.
• Network with other healthcare and non-healthcare camps to exchange best practices, identify collaborative opportunities, and promote innovation in programming and operations.
• Foster a strong relationship with local and state Boards of Health, ensuring ongoing communication, compliance, and trust. Stay current on regulatory updates and be present and responsive during site visits or inspections.

Fundraising & Development

• Lead a comprehensive fundraising strategy encompassing major gifts, grants, donor cultivation/solicitation/stewardship, sponsorships, and events to increase revenue and diversify funding streams.
• Strengthening relationships with corporate, foundation, and individual donors through consistent communication and engagement.
• Serve as a visible and influential spokesperson for the organization in the community and with key stakeholders.

Financial Operational Management

• Oversee the development and manage the annual operating budget in partnership with the Treasurer and Finance Committee, ensuring financial health and transparency.
• Strategize ways to reduce costs, optimize resources, and increase revenue without compromising the quality or safety of diabetes care and programming.
• Meet the standards of our annual audit by ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance with all regulations, and effective management of all organizational assets.

Staff Leadership & Culture

• Recruit, supervise, and develop a talented, mission-aligned team; foster collaboration, accountability, and professional growth.
• Ensure clear communication, performance goals, and regular evaluations to support an effective and motivated team.
• Provide strategic thought leadership to develop sustainable solutions for recruiting, training, and retaining seasonal staff.
• Ensure all staffing levels (full time, seasonal, temporary) align with the camp’s mission, program needs, and budget parameters. Find the right balance between flexibility and consistency for effective program delivery and an exceptional camper experience.
• Nurturing volunteer and alumni involvement, develop and maintain strong relationships with these groups.
• Cultivate a positive organizational culture grounded in respect, teamwork, inclusion, and innovation.

Public Relations & Advocacy

• Serve as the organization’s chief ambassador, representing its mission and impact to the public, media, donors, and healthcare partners.
• Promote the organization’s programs and achievements through strategic communications, marketing, and community outreach.
• Advocate for the needs of children and families living with Type 1 diabetes within the broader healthcare and nonprofit community.

Board Relations

• Serve as the primary liaison to the Board of Trustees, providing timely information, analysis, and recommendations.
• Support Board development and engagement by fostering productive relationships and ongoing clear communication.
• Participate as a non-voting member of the Executive Committee and other Board committees as appropriate.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in nonprofit management, healthcare, or youth development.
• Nonprofit Management, Healthcare Administration, or related industry experience preferred, advanced degree a plus.
• Periodically available on nights and weekends, and some travel may be required
• Onsite availability to take on higher workload during peak summer camp months
• Demonstrated success in program growth, fundraising, and partnership development.
• Proven ability to manage staff effectively, foster a positive organizational culture, and guarantee accountability for staff performance.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost-control strategies.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, networking, and relationship-building abilities.
• Strategic and creative thinker with a passion for innovation and mission-driven impact.
• A genuine commitment to improving the lives of children and families affected by Type 1 diabetes.

About Barton Center for Diabetes Education

Our organization provides life-changing camp experiences for children living with Type 1 diabetes and their families. Through medical programs, education, and connection, we help campers and their families gain confidence in managing their diabetes, build lasting friendships, and experience the joy of childhood in a safe, supportive environment. We’re seeking an inspiring and strategic Executive Director to lead our next chapter of growth. The ideal candidate is a mission-driven leader who combines creativity, strong operational skills, and a passion for improving the lives of children and families affected by Type 1 diabetes.

Connections working at Barton Center for Diabetes Education