TO APPLY: Interested candidates should submit a resume AND a cover letter or writing sample to BOTH Emilio Araujo (earaujo@onwardhouse.org) and Virgil Hernandez (vhernandez@onwardhouse.org) with the subject line “Development/Fundraising Associate Application – [Your Name].” Applications will not be accepted if submitted through LinkedIn only.

Job Title: Development and Communications Associate 

Location: Chicago, IL 

Organization: Onward Neighborhood House 

Reports to: Director of Development and Communications 

Position Type: Full-Time, Exempt 

Work Environment: 5413 W Diversey Ave, typically four days in-office and one day working from home each week. Travel to offsite locations in Chicago may be required on occasion. 

About Us: 

Onward House is rooted in a rich history of support services and our mission is to improve lives and uplift communities through educational, economic and support services.

As a nonprofit, our strength is our ability to adapt to societal change. Onward House was founded in 1893 to support community needs of food, clothing, and shelter. Now, we support the Belmont Cragin community by running a Food Pantry, an Early Childhood Education Center, an Adult Education Program, an IL Welcoming Center for immigrants and refugees, and a co-located Healthcare Clinic in partnership with CommunityHealth. 

Position Overview: 

The Development/Fundraising Associate will play a critical role in supporting the fundraising efforts of Onward House during a pivotal time in the organization’s growth. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about nonprofit development and envisions a career in this field. Working closely with the Director of Development, this role will help support the expansion of our programs and donor base. The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic, detail-oriented, and eager to learn and grow within our development team. 

Primary Responsibilities: 

• Annual Campaign and Events:
• Support the planning and execution of fundraising campaigns and events. 
• Assist with logistics, marketing, and communication efforts for campaigns and events.
• Administrative Support:
• Provide administrative support to the development team, including maintaining calendars and deadlines, reporting, and organization.
• Assist with the preparation of development reports and presentations. 
• Maintain accurate donor records with timely communication and follow-ups. 

Additional Responsibilities 

• Donor Relations and Stewardship: 
• Assist in managing relationships with current and prospective donors. 
• Coordinate donor acknowledgment and recognition activities. 
• Help identify new fundraising opportunities and strategies. 
• Communications and Marketing: 
• Contribute to the development of fundraising materials, including newsletters, brochures, and social media content. 
• Assist in maintaining and updating the organization’s website and donor database. 
• Grant Writing and Research: 
• Assist in researching potential grant opportunities and funding sources. 
• Support the grant application process, including writing, editing, and submission of proposals. 
• Track grant deadlines and reporting requirements. 

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a related field. 
• Minimum of 1 year of experience in nonprofit development or fundraising. 2 years preferred. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM donor management software (e.g., Salesforce, Raiser’s Edge). Neon CRM experience preferred. 
• Excellent marketing and communication skills, especially in social media, visual design, and digital storytelling. 
• English/Spanish bilingual strongly preferred. 

Who You Are: 

• Skills and Competencies: 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills. 
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities. 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment. 
• High level of professionalism and discretion in handling sensitive information. 
• Personal Attributes: 
• Passionate about the mission of Onward Neighborhood House. 
• Eager to learn and develop skills in nonprofit development. 
• Creative and proactive in identifying and pursuing new fundraising opportunities. 
• Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to accuracy and follow-through. 

Benefits:

• Salary Range: $47,000 - $50,000 
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance. 
• 5% employer contribution to 403b Retirement Plan after the first year. 
• Opportunities for professional development and growth. 

How to Apply: 

Interested candidates should submit a resume AND a cover letter or writing sample to BOTH Emilio Araujo (earaujo@onwardhouse.org) and Virgil Hernandez (vhernandez@onwardhouse.org) with the subject line “Development/Fundraising Associate Application – [Your Name].” Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. 

It is the policy of Onward Neighborhood House to provide equal employment opportunity, without regard to race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, national origin, ancestry, mental or physical disabilities, marital status, affectional preference, Vietnam era veteran status, or any other legally protected status. 

Join us at Onward Neighborhood House and help us make a difference in our community. Together, we can achieve more and create lasting change.