Imagine creating programs that uplift an entire community of older adults. As a social and community service manager, you could organize weekly social activities at senior centers, arrange transportation for medical appointments and advocate for policy reforms that improve care for aging populations. Whether working within a nonprofit organization, government agency or assisted living facility, this role allows you to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
In this article, we’ll explore the responsibilities of social and community service managers, examine their significance in serving older adults and outline the skills and steps required to pursue this rewarding career.
What Is a Social and Community Service Manager?
Social and community service managers oversee programs that serve diverse groups, including children, veterans and individuals experiencing homelessness. However, their role is particularly vital in supporting older adults as the aging population grows.
By 2030, all baby boomers will be 65 or older, making up nearly 20% of the U.S. population. As this demographic ages, their needs for support in health, social engagement and daily living increase. Social and community service managers are at the forefront of providing and coordinating these essential services.
What does a day in the life look like for those serving in this role? While responsibilities differ depending on the workplace, here are some of the common duties of social and community service managers who work with older adults:
- Developing and implementing social service programs
Managers create initiatives tailored to seniors’ needs. For example, you might design a fall-prevention workshop to teach home safety or coordinate group activities that promote physical and social well-being. - Managing budgets
With limited resources, you’ll allocate funds to senior-specific services like meal programs, transportation or creative therapy sessions such as art or music. Careful financial management ensures these programs remain sustainable. - Supervising staff
In this leadership role, managers train and oversee team members who work directly with older adults. For instance, you might collaborate with a team of social workers to arrange in-home care for seniors in assisted living facilities. - Assessing community needs
By using tools like surveys and community feedback, you’ll gather insight into the most pressing issues facing older adults. This data informs decisions about which services to prioritize, such as healthcare access or mental health resources.
Other responsibilities include:
- Building partnerships for policies and programs that benefit older adults.
- Ensuring all programs comply with local and federal guidelines.
- Using data to measure each initiative’s success and adapting accordingly for better outcomes.
- Resolving conflicts between clients or staff members to maintain a positive environment.
Beneficial Skills In This Field
Social and community service managers need a combination of hard and soft skills to excel. Some of these skills are refined on the job, while others are developed through formal education and specialized training:
- Analytical decision-making
To measure the effectiveness of your programs, you’ll need to collect, interpret and leverage different forms of data, such as participation rates and feedback scores. This data can help you improve outcomes for future programs and ensure that you’re using limited resources effectively. - Leadership
As a leader, you’ll train staff on proper protocols, inspire a collaborative environment and guide teams toward your collective goal of providing impactful services for seniors. - Communication
From colleagues to community members and funding agencies, you’ll spend much of your time engaging with stakeholders. Effective communication is essential for fostering relationships, securing funding and creating programs that are accessible and inclusive. - Problem-solving
Part of your role will be to identify potential challenges before they occur, assess available options to prevent issues and respond effectively to unexpected hurdles. This includes navigating resource limitations and adapting to shifting community needs.
How To Become a Social and Community Service Manager
Becoming a social and community service manager requires education, experience and sometimes specialized training. Here are the essential steps to pursue this career:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree
Most employers require a bachelor’s degree in fields such as social work, public administration or public policy. Related majors like sociology, psychology or nonprofit management are often considered, especially when combined with relevant experience. - Gain experience
Before advancing to this leadership role, hands-on experience in the field is typically required, often in entry-level positions like social worker, case manager or community services program coordinator. Volunteering or internships in social service organizations can also provide valuable insight and build a strong foundation. - Consider a graduate credential
While not always mandatory, some hiring managers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in social work (MSW), public administration (MPA) or gerontology. If transitioning into this field from another industry, earning a graduate certificate in aging can strengthen your qualifications and signal expertise in the field.
Your Career in Aging Begins at the University of Florida
Social and community service managers earn an average annual salary of $77,030, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, this role is projected to grow by 8% through 2032, outpacing the national average for most careers. If you’re inspired by the idea of dedicating your career to helping others, starting with the right education is essential to building a strong foundation for success.
The University of Florida offers several entirely online graduate programs in the field of aging, designed to prepare you for a rewarding career in this growing field:
- Master’s Degree in Innovative Aging Studies
- Master’s Degree in Medical Physiology and Aging
- Graduate Certificate in Aging and Geriatric Practice
Our programs can be completed in as little as one year, or on a flexible timeline that accommodates your busy schedule. We understand that everyone’s path is unique, so we work to ensure you can balance your education with your professional and personal commitments.
Have questions? Contact us today to learn more about our programs. When you’re ready, we look forward to reviewing your application and helping you take the next step toward a fulfilling career in aging services.
Sources:
https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2023/05/2020-census-united-states-older-population-grew.html#
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm#tab-4
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm#tab-1