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Programs Assistant


The Foundation


The DC Bar Foundation (DCBF), a 501(c)(3) organization established in 1977, funds, supports, and improves legal representation of people living in poverty and vulnerable situations, or who are otherwise underserved in the District of Columbia. We are committed to the vision that residents of the District have equal access to justice, regardless of income. We provide grants, training, and technical assistance to DC legal aid organizations and award loans to DC poverty lawyers to help with their educational debt. As a part of our investment in justice, DCBF is implementing a robust strategic plan that will include (1) funding with intention, (2) engaging with our stakeholders, (3) identify unmet needs, (4) demonstrate impact, and (5) infuse with racial justice and equity.


The Position


DCBF is seeking a Programs Assistant to support the coordination of activities in programs and grants management at the Foundation.


This position is well suited for someone with two to three years of experience in a similar role.

The primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Assist the Director of Programs with administrative functions

  • Accurately record minutes for Programs meetings

  • Provide quality control by proofreading deliverables and ensuring proper record management

  • Support recruitment and onboarding activities for new Programs staff and consultants

  • Assist the Programs Manager with the Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP) and provide back-up support as needed

  • Prepare for the annual audit by compiling required documentation, assisting with on-site requests, and preparing materials for review by the Director of Programs

  • Support the grantmaking process

  • Provide technical assistance with application and report submissions

  • Utilize remote scanning software to process daily check deposits

  • Assist with training and informational sessions

  • Ensure grants and LRAP application forms are readily accessible to applicants via the database and the website

  • Review forms submitted by grantees and LRAP participants for accuracy and completion, and monitor grantee reports

  • Communicate award amounts and prepare denial letters for applicants

  • Generate loan documents and coordinate execution of loan documents

  • Prepare all necessary materials for repayment packets

  • Help ensure grant documentation is saved in database(s) and complies with IRS regulations and Foundation requirements

  • Maintain basic knowledge of the grants management database; Provide back-up support and guidance to others as needed

  • Collect, apply, and share learnings through professional networking

Minimum Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or equivalent combination of education and experience

  • Experience handling responsibilities comparable to those outlined above

  • Strong knowledge of administrative practices, with excellent formatting skills

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey information accurately

  • Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail and accuracy

  • Sound professional judgment and demonstrated professional maturity

  • Advanced knowledge and experience with Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Acrobat

  • Customer-service oriented and eager to support the Foundation’s Mission and Vision

The ideal candidate will also possess the following qualities:

  • Ability to prioritize and adhere to deadlines

  • Ability to work efficiently independently and with a team

  • Ability to utilize available tools and resources and ask relevant probing questions

  • Ability to produce high-quality deliverables under the guidance of assigned supervisor

  • Ability to thrive and adapt to the changing demands of a fast-paced, rapid-growth environment

  • Ability to develop and configure website materials

Compensation Package

  • Salary commensurate with market and experience

  • Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance

  • Flexible Spending Account

  • Retirement plan with employer match

  • 12 paid holidays per year, plus annual winter office closure (12/25 – 1/1)

  • 15 days of paid vacation in addition to accrued sick leave

  • Monthly transportation subsidy

  • Annual professional development allowance

ADA/EEO Statement


Persons with mental or physical disabilities, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act are eligible for this position as long as they can perform the essential functions of the job after reasonable accommodations are made to their known limitations. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible for this position.


The DC Bar Foundation provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

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