Friends of the Rail Park (FRP) is a 501(c)3 organization that drives the vision behind the transformation of historic rail lines that traverse Philadelphia into a 3.1 mile linear park that will connect 10 adjoining neighborhoods, cultural institutions, and Fairmount Park.
FRP is seeking an Executive Director to work closely with an active Board of Directors, Community Engagement and Programs Manager, government officials, communities, and partners to advance FRP’s mission and to secure public support and financial resources that will enable FRP to lead the Rail Park’s design process and programmatic agenda.
The park has three distinct sections—the Viaduct, the Cut and Tunnel—which reflect the history of the city’s development and rail transportation’s role in it. Phase I of the park, an elevated quarter mile, opened in June 2018 as the only public greenspace in the Callowhill/Chinatown North neighborhood.
As the supporting nonprofit organization, FRP leads the conversation about the Rail Park through engaging Philadelphia communities, producing programming, advocacy work, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the park. FRP works closely with Center City District and Parks & Recreation as the key partners stewarding the Rail Park.
Vision: The Rail Park will be a continuous three-mile linear park and recreation path that connects and enlivens the social, historical and environmental fabric of Philadelphia’s communities.
Mission: Friends of the Rail Park is the City’s and Center City District’s partner to create, activate and enhance the quality of the Rail Park in order to engage diverse residents, bridge communities, and promote inclusivity among Philadelphians and visitors.
FRP will pursue three goals over the next three years:
- Establish FRP’s organizational capacity to be the go-to leader for the Rail Park;
- Secure public support and financial resources; and
- Accelerate development of and secure commitment to the entire Rail Park.
FRP recently developed a development strategy that outlines goals over the next 3 years and provides the strategies and approach for implementing these goals. An institutional funder has generously committed $550,000 over three years to capitalize the organization; 2020 marks the third year of this grant period, and FRP is looking for an Executive Director with a proven track record of fundraising who can grow and diversify resources to ensure the financial health of the organization. FRP will continue to use this support to leverage other funders and donors to also contribute to the organization.
Salary: $80,000-$100,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications), with benefits aligned with nonprofit industry standards.
Anticipated Start Date: February 1, 2020
Apply By: Send resume and Letter of Interest to jobs@therailpark.org no later than December 20, 2019.
Image courtesy of Friends of the Rail Park.