Executive Director

THE SEARCH

The Aloha Foundation, a Vermont-based nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to learn, grow, and connect through transformative experiences in nature, seeks a strategic and dynamic leader to serve as its next Executive Director (ED). Through six core programs—three residential summer camps, a day camp, a family camp, and a year-round outdoor education center—the Foundation serves 7,500 participants annually. In October 2026, Aloha will expand to seven core programs through the acquisition of Lochearn, a nearby girls’ sleepaway camp, further strengthening its ability to serve youth, families, and communities through transformational outdoor experiences. At the heart of Aloha’s work is a belief in the power of intentional community, meaningful connections to the natural world, and the development of character through challenge, responsibility, collaboration, and belonging.

 

Across its programs, Aloha serves children, adolescents, families, educators, community organizations, and older adults through experiences that emphasize authentic human connection, simplicity, and outdoor living. Participants are encouraged to engage deeply with one another, their surroundings, and themselves in settings that prioritize face-to-face interaction and community engagement.

 

A defining characteristic of the Aloha experience is its commitment to supporting individual agency within a caring community. Participants are encouraged to make choices, set goals, and challenge themselves in noncompetitive environments that promote safe risk-taking, personal growth, and self-discovery. Through daily opportunities to exercise autonomy, campers and participants learn to make independent decisions while demonstrating respect, empathy, and responsibility toward others. In doing so, they develop skills and values that extend far beyond their time at Aloha and continue to shape their lives at home, in school, in their communities, and throughout their personal and professional lives. Aloha is committed to fostering diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments where every individual is valued for their unique experiences, perspectives, and contributions.

 

As the Aloha Foundation enters its second century, the organization seeks a visionary and mission-driven leader to honor its rich legacy while navigating the changing experiences of young people and guiding it toward a future of continued relevance, financial strength, and expanded impact. The next Executive Director will inherit an organization with exceptional strengths: dedicated and experienced staff and program teams, a deeply engaged alumni and donor community, a stunning natural setting, and a committed Board of Trustees that values thoughtful governance and strategic partnership. With annual revenue of approximately $10 million, net assets of $68.2 million, a full-time staff of 35 and approximately 388 seasonal employees, Aloha is well positioned to continue and enhance the profound impact it has on the communities it serves.

 

At the same time, this leadership opportunity presents meaningful and exciting work ahead. In partnership with the Board, staff, and broader community, the next ED will help shape the Foundation’s long-term strategic direction, diversify and strengthen philanthropic support, and position the organization to thrive in a rapidly evolving environment. As the Foundation prepares to welcome Lochearn into the Aloha family of programs, the Executive Director will play a key role in ensuring a thoughtful and successful integration while honoring the unique history, culture, and strengths of both organizations. They will also be mindful of opportunities for strategic growth, seeking ways to expand Aloha’s reach, serve more constituents, and deepen its impact. The ED will play a critical role in ensuring that Aloha’s programs continue to meet the needs of current and future participants while remaining rooted in the values and educational philosophy that have defined the organization since its founding in 1905.

The Aloha Foundation has retained Isaacson, Miller, a national executive search firm, to assist in this search.

COMPENSATION + LOCATION

Compensation for this position will be competitive, with an anticipated salary range between $180,000 – $200,000. The Executive Director is expected to reside locally or within close proximity to the Foundation’s campuses to maintain a consistent on-site presence throughout the year. During June through August, the Foundation’s busiest and most impactful season, the Executive Director will be especially visible and actively engaged across Aloha’s campuses and programs, providing hands-on leadership, responding to emerging needs, and helping ensure the safe and successful operation of all programs.

The Aloha Foundation is nestled in the scenic Connecticut River Valley and offers the opportunity to live and work in one of New England’s most beautiful and vibrant regions. Surrounded by rolling hills, pristine lakes, forests, and an abundance of year-round outdoor recreation, the area offers an exceptional quality of life that balances natural beauty with a strong sense of community. The Foundation is conveniently located near Dartmouth College and Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, providing access to world-class higher education, healthcare, arts, dining, and cultural amenities while preserving the charm and tranquility of rural Vermont.

APPLICATIONS, INQUIRIES + NOMINATIONS

Screening of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the completion of the search process. Inquiries, nominations, referrals, and applications (including resumes and two- to three-page letters of interest responding to the opportunities and challenges outlined above) should be sent via the IM website: https://www.imsearch.com/open-searches/aloha-foundation/executive-director.

The Aloha Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds and identities.

Additional Comments/Information:

Requirements:

Suggested Experience:

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Details

Company: Aloha Foundation

Location: Fairlee, Vermont

ACA Accredited: Yes

Time Frame: Year Round

Type of Position: Administrative

Day or Night: Overnight

Salary: $180,000-$200,000

Application Deadline: