COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina•Wilmington, NC

8d•$17 - $21•Onsite

About The Position

The Communications Specialist/Coordinator plays an important role in advancing the mission of the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina through strategic communications, storytelling, and media engagement. Based at the association office in Wilmington, this position supports communications across the organization, helping to elevate awareness of the YMCA’s programs, services, partnerships, and community impact. This role is responsible for developing compelling written and digital content, supporting media relations efforts, coordinating storytelling initiatives, and ensuring clear and consistent messaging across multiple communication channels including newsletters, website content, mobile app updates, press releases, and program communications. The ideal candidate is a strong writer, creative thinker, and organized communicator who is passionate about mission-driven work and enjoys collaborating with program staff to highlight stories of impact. This position also helps coordinate video testimonials and promotional storytelling projects that showcase the YMCA’s work strengthening individuals, families, and communities.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Journalism, English, or a related field preferred.
Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills with attention to detail.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively across a variety of platforms and audiences.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
Interest in mission-driven work and community impact.
Must be able to see and hear.
Must be able to speak clearly.
Must be able to lift at least 50 lbs.
Must be in good health.
Must be able to bend, stand, stoop, walk, and climb a ladder.
Must be able to comprehend and communicate written and verbal instructions.
Must wear equipment including eye and face protection as well as close toe shoes, gloves, and other personal protective equipment while on the job when necessary.
Must be able to complete and maintain certification in CPR and First Aid; able to assist individuals in need until professional help arrives.
Ability to quickly identify emergency situations (medical, fire, environmental, etc.) and respond appropriately following established procedures.
Required to report all safety incidents and hazards immediately and accurately to supervisors.
Commitment to maintaining a safe, clean, and hazard-free environment for all staff, members, and participants.
Must be able to perform physical tasks related to safety, including assisting individuals of various ages and physical abilities.
Follow all YMCA safety protocols, OSHA standards, and state/local regulations as applicable.

Nice To Haves

1-3 years of experience in communications, public relations, or marketing, ideally in a non-profit setting.
Familiarity with content management systems, email marketing platforms, and social media tools.
Experience coordinating or supporting video, photography, or storytelling projects.
Comfort working with digital platforms including websites and mobile apps.
Basic understanding of media relations and public relations practices.
Bilingual skills in English and Spanish to assist the Y in better communicating to a larger audience.

Responsibilities

Draft, edit, and proofread content for newsletters, press releases, email communications, website updates, blog posts, mobile app messaging, and program promotions.
Ensure communications are clear, consistent, and aligned with YMCA brand standards and voice.
Support the development of messaging that effectively communicates the YMCA’s mission, programs, and community impact.
Collaborate with program and membership teams to gather information and translate program details into engaging communications.
Help identify and develop meaningful stories that highlight the YMCA’s impact across youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
Assist in planning and coordinating testimonial videos, interviews, and promotional storytelling initiatives.
Support development of content for impact reports, annual campaigns, and donor communications.
Participate in or help coordinate on-site interviews, photography sessions, and video shoots as needed.
Assist with drafting press releases and media advisories promoting YMCA programs, partnerships, initiatives, and events.
Build and maintain relationships with local media outlets to increase visibility of the YMCA’s work.
Coordinate interview opportunities, story placements, and media outreach.
Support logistics for press conferences, announcements, and public-facing communications.
Assist with updates to website content, ensuring information is timely, accurate, and engaging.
Contribute to email marketing communications and digital messaging through the YMCA mobile app.
Support content planning across communication channels to ensure consistency and alignment with organizational priorities.
Track engagement metrics and provide insights to help improve communication effectiveness.
Support marketing and promotional efforts for YMCA programs, campaigns, and special events.
Assist in development of promotional materials and communication timelines.
Provide on-site support for select events, including capturing stories, photos, or content when appropriate.
Work closely with staff across departments to support communication needs and highlight program impact.
Assist the Marketing & Communications Director in executing strategic communication initiatives.
Maintain organized files of communication materials, media coverage, and storytelling assets.
Provide general communications support as needed to ensure timely completion of projects.