Director of Community Engagement

SLI•Topeka, KS

20h

About The Position

We’re looking for an energetic, relationship-driven professional to lead and grow our community engagement and fundraising events while helping share the mission and impact of SLI throughout the community. This role is perfect for someone who thrives on bringing people together, creating meaningful experiences, and turning creative ideas into successful events. From signature fundraising initiatives and sponsorship development to volunteer engagement and community partnerships, this position plays a key role in building awareness, increasing participation, and strengthening support for SLI’s mission. The ideal candidate is equal parts strategist, organizer, connector, and storyteller — someone who enjoys collaborating with others, thinking creatively, providing exceptional customer service, and delivering memorable experiences for attendees, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners alike. In this role, you’ll lead the planning and execution of fundraising and public-facing events, oversee volunteer and committee engagement, develop sponsorship opportunities, and help grow community involvement year after year. You’ll work closely with internal teams, media partners, vendors, donors, and stakeholders to ensure every event reflects SLI’s mission, values, and commitment to meaningful community impact.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in marketing, communications, business, public administration, nonprofit management, or a related field.
At least three years of direct experience planning and implementing fundraising events, sponsorship initiatives, community engagement activities, or other public-facing events.
Strong communication skills.
Strong customer service skills.
Strong organizational skills.
Strong relationship-building skills.
Strong creative problem-solving skills.
High level of self-discipline.
High level of initiative.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Proficiency in social media platforms.
Proficiency in event or fundraising management tools.

Nice To Haves

Experience leading successful fundraising efforts.
Experience increasing event participation.
Experience managing volunteers.
Experience building community partnerships.

Responsibilities

Lead and grow community engagement and fundraising events.
Share the mission and impact of SLI throughout the community.
Plan and execute fundraising and public-facing events.
Oversee volunteer and committee engagement.
Develop sponsorship opportunities.
Grow community involvement year after year.
Work closely with internal teams, media partners, vendors, donors, and stakeholders to ensure every event reflects SLI’s mission, values, and commitment to meaningful community impact.