Community Engagement Coordinator

Developmental Disabilities Institute•Smithtown, NY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Brightway Living & Learning is a premier non-profit provider of human services on Long Island, including educational, residential, day habilitation, and vocational programs. Building on a 65-year legacy as the Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI), Brightway supports over 1,600 children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities through a full continuum of care. By employing persistence, adaptability, and the power of behavioral science, Brightway’s dedicated professionals enable individuals to grow, learn, and meet milestones at their own pace. The Community Engagement Coordinator plays a vital role in building vibrant networks and deep connections both inside and outside of Brightway Living & Learning. This role manages the day-to-day operational execution of signature fundraising and community events while serving as a bridge to Brightway families and local civic groups. The position ensures that community engagement efforts seamlessly feed into fundraising and that grass-roots impact stories are captured and elevated to support the organization's broader brand strategy (under the Director of Marketing & Communications).

Requirements

Associate’s degree
3 years of experience in event coordination, community outreach, or public relations (nonprofit experience preferred)
Exceptional relationship-building skills with a natural ability to connect with families, program participants, and civic leaders
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a talent for identifying and crafting compelling human-interest stories
Highly organized with the ability to manage the logistics of multiple fast-moving projects simultaneously
Experience working with CRM/database software and digital communication tools is a plus

Responsibilities

Actively partner with program staff to create meaningful, supportive connections with Brightway families, fostering a deep sense of community and inclusion.
Serve as the frontline ambassador to regional civic organizations, actively building and maintaining relationships with local Chambers of Commerce, Rotary Clubs, and other community groups.
Coordinate community and volunteer networks to support signature events and grass-roots organizational initiatives.
Partner with the Marketing Communications Specialists to identify and capture community impact stories that showcase the achievements of program participants and families.
Coordinate with the fundraising and marketing teams to turn these narratives into compelling content for the website, social media, and external channels.
Ensure all public-facing community engagement efforts maintain a cohesive, unified message that aligns with the Brightway brand framework.
Manage the day-to-day logistics, planning, and execution of major signature events, including the annual Walk, Golf Classic, and Cornhole Tournament.
Coordinate vendor relations, event timelines, supply inventories, and on-site logistics to ensure high-quality, seamless event experiences.
Collaborate closely with development staff to align event operations with overall fundraising, sponsorship, and donor stewardship goals.
Other duties as assigned.