Development and Engagement Specialist

Covenant House Illinois • Chicago, IL

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

Founded in 2017, Covenant House Illinois (CHIL) provides critical protection and resources for youth ages 18-24 experiencing homelessness throughout Chicagoland and across Illinois. To date, CHIL has served nearly 2,000 young people, administering tailored, wraparound services, including interim and transitional shelter, workforce and education programming, clinical case management, life-skills training, and more to help youth permanently escape the cycle of homelessness. CHIL's programs and services are youth affirming, supportive, and rooted in harm reduction and trauma-sensitive care. With a newly renovated campus on Chicago’s west side and a recently enacted three-year strategic plan outlining a comprehensive vision of program expansion and service innovation, CHIL is uniquely positioned to meet the emerging needs of young people experiencing housing instability and provide the resources and care they need to achieve sustainable independence. We empower them to finish high school, start college, gain employment, live independently, and ultimately step out into the world knowing they are prepared to be successful.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Nonprofit Management, Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, development, donor relations, event coordination, community engagement, or a related field.
• Experience supporting fundraising campaigns, donor stewardship activities, special events, or volunteer engagement initiatives preferred.
• Experience working with donor databases/CRM systems and maintaining accurate donor records preferred.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to create engaging donor communications.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records and documentation.
• Ability to build positive relationships with donors, volunteers, community partners, and internal stakeholders.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with donor management systems.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a mission-driven nonprofit environment and support fundraising goals.

Responsibilities

• Supports fundraising, donor engagement, and community outreach initiatives by coordinating special events, managing donor stewardship activities, assisting with fundraising campaigns, maintaining donor records, and fostering relationships with donors, volunteers, and community partners.
• Helps advance the organization's development strategy and supports efforts to increase philanthropic support and community engagement.

What This Job Offers

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