Community Engagement Coordinator

Cunningham Children's Home•Urbana, IL

About The Position

An integral member of the Advancement Department, the Community Engagement Coordinator collaborates with the team to advance Cunningham’s mission through special events, volunteer coordination, and corporate-sector support. The coordinator recruits, engages, and trains volunteers for Cunningham’s fundraising and marketing programs, and provides leadership in planning, coordinating, and executing in-person and digital fundraising events. During the first three months, the coordinator builds relationships with key volunteers, community partners, and donors; learns Cunningham’s mission, programs, and community impact; takes ownership of volunteer engagement activities; supports fundraising and community events; and represents the agency through tours, presentations, and outreach. Within six months, the coordinator independently manages volunteer recruitment, placement, recognition, and stewardship; leads assigned events; and develops community partnerships. By the end of the first year, the coordinator is expected to demonstrate growth in volunteer engagement, partnerships, event participation, and sponsorship support; develop engagement strategies; and establish themselves as a trusted Advancement team leader with opportunities for increased responsibility and professional growth based on performance, initiative, and department needs.

Requirements

At least 3 years of experience in communications, donor relations, sales, public relations, business, or a related field.
Excellent written, verbal, and public-speaking communication skills.
Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills with diverse audiences.
Proven project, event, and volunteer management capabilities.
Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
Strong time-management and budget-awareness skills.
Ability to represent and communicate Cunningham’s mission, values, and impact effectively.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment while managing interruptions and competing priorities.
Commitment to adherence to the AFP Code of Ethics.
Illinois Driver’s License and proof of insurance required.
Must submit to a pre-employment physical and background check.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Marketing, Communications, Journalism, Business, Fundraising, Nonprofit Management, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Recruit, engage, and train volunteers for fundraising and marketing programs.
Manage volunteer recruitment, placement, recognition, and stewardship.
Plan, coordinate, and execute in-person and digital fundraising events.
Lead assigned events and ensure a positive experience for attendees, volunteers, sponsors, and partners.
Support fundraising and community events.
Build relationships with volunteers, community partners, and donors.
Identify and cultivate community partnerships that increase awareness, participation, volunteerism, and philanthropic support.
Represent Cunningham through tours, presentations, and outreach opportunities.
Develop and implement engagement strategies to deepen relationships and connect individuals and organizations to Cunningham’s mission.
Contribute to growth in volunteer engagement, community partnerships, event participation, and sponsorship support.