Community Engagement Manager

The CFL Initiative•Chicago, IL

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Community Engagement Manager is part of the collaborative partnership between United Way of Metro Chicago (UWMC) and the Chicago Federation of Labor (CFL). The Chicago Federation of Labor Workforce and Community Initiative (CFL Initiative) serves as the position’s structural and administrative hub. The Manager coordinates programming and provides technical support to the CFL and its affiliated unions on behalf of UWMC and the CFL Initiative, while maintaining and growing working relationships with Chicago’s labor community to encourage participation in UWMC programs and initiatives. The role supports the partnership and the organizations’ shared interests by connecting UWMC and labor communities in Chicago and Cook County, fostering union relationships that advance shared impact goals and successful fundraising campaigns, and identifying opportunities for joint programs that benefit local communities and union members. The Manager coordinates workplace giving campaigns and fundraising initiatives, manages community engagement programming and events, connects workers with support services, and represents the partnership at public events and meetings. The position is based in Chicago and requires significant travel in Chicago and Cook County. It involves regular in-person and telephone communication, prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer, and regularly lifting up to 25 pounds. Weekend and evening hours may be necessary. A union-made personal vehicle is strongly preferred.

Requirements

Demonstrated familiarity with the local labor movement and understanding of organizational structures.
Experience executing work plans related to fundraising and community/member engagement.
Ability to work with a broad array of organizations on social and economic justice issues, build unity among diverse groups, and facilitate meetings.
Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to speak in front of large groups.
Strong attention to detail.
Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment, manage time effectively, and balance multiple projects simultaneously.
Ability to work weekend and evening hours when necessary.
Personal accountability and responsibility for results.
Ability to analyze information and translate it into specific, effective actions or solutions.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Forms, and SharePoint.
Ability to lift 25 pounds regularly.

Nice To Haves

Access to a union-made personal vehicle is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and help develop UWMC workplace giving campaigns involving union-represented employees, and support other fundraising initiatives, including an annual luncheon and holiday fundraising drives.
Manage and drive CFL community engagement programming, including large-scale events such as the May Day 5K Run and Walk, Chicago Labor Day Parade and Eddie Fest, and rallies.
Develop project timelines; work with public agencies to secure permits; manage vendors; promote events; recruit participants and volunteers; and coordinate other components needed for successful outcomes.
Connect union members with public and private support services and agencies as needed.
Provide strike assistance to workers affected by labor disputes, generally by helping them access community and CFL Initiative resources.
Grow union engagement with United Way, including participation in employer campaigns, volunteerism, attendance at UWMC events, and representation on UWMC’s Campaign Cabinet.
Cultivate relationships with unions and community partners, including through volunteer recruitment and communications.
Attend and participate in national, state, and local AFL-CIO and UWMC conferences and trainings.
Attend CFL Delegates Meetings, staff meetings, and other meetings as determined by the Director of Community Engagement.
Write articles and contribute materials for CFL quarterly publications and social media accounts.
Support UWMC Partner Engagement and Collective Impact by identifying opportunities for unions to volunteer for specific projects for UW Partner Agencies.
Support traditional AFL-CIO and United Way partnership initiatives, including the National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, Labor in the Pulpit/On the Bimah/In the Minbar, and Days of Service.
Represent the UWMC and CFL Community Engagement Department at public-facing events, including city parades and fundraising events.
Perform other duties as assigned by the CFL, CFL Initiative, and UWMC.