Community Engagement Specialist

Cunningham Children's Home • Urbana, IL

10d

About The Position

The Community Engagement Specialist is an integral member of the Advancement Department and works with the team to advance Cunningham’s mission through special events, volunteer coordination, and corporate-sector support. The role recruits, engages, and trains volunteers for Cunningham’s fundraising and marketing programs, and plans, coordinates, and executes in-person and digital fundraising events.

During the first year, the specialist builds relationships with volunteers, community partners, and donors; learns Cunningham’s mission, programs, and community impact; manages volunteer engagement; and supports and leads events. The role also represents Cunningham through tours, presentations, and outreach, cultivates community partnerships, and develops engagement strategies to grow participation and philanthropic support. Successful performance may lead to increased responsibility and expanded leadership opportunities.

The position requires a bachelor’s degree in a related field, at least five years of relevant experience, and an Illinois driver’s license with proof of insurance. A pre-employment physical and background check are required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Marketing, Communications, Journalism, Business, Fundraising, Nonprofit Management, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in communications, donor relations, sales, public relations, business, or a related field.
• Illinois driver’s license and proof of insurance.
• Excellent written, verbal, and public speaking communication skills.
• Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills with diverse audiences.
• Proven project, event, and volunteer management capabilities.
• Strong organization and ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong time management and budget awareness.
• 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.
• Submission to a pre-employment physical and background check.

Responsibilities

• Recruit, engage, and train volunteers for Cunningham’s fundraising and marketing programs.
• Manage volunteer recruitment, placement, recognition, and stewardship.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute in-person and digital fundraising and community events.
• Build relationships with volunteers, community partners, and donors.
• Represent Cunningham by giving tours, delivering presentations, and participating in outreach opportunities.
• Identify and cultivate community partnerships that increase awareness, participation, volunteerism, and philanthropic support.
• Develop and implement engagement strategies that deepen relationships and connect individuals and organizations to Cunningham’s mission.
• Work collaboratively with the Advancement team to advance Cunningham’s mission.
• Help grow volunteer engagement, community partnerships, event participation, and sponsorship support.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level