Special Events & Community Relations Specialist

Overview

DEPARTMENT:     Springfield, Ohio/Divisional Headquarters

REPORTS TO:      Corps Officers Divisional Development Director

SUPERVISES:       N/A

STATUS:                Exempt

SCHEDULE:           Full Time. Hours Vary. This position may require working evenings, weekends, and holidays.

FUNCTION:            The Special Events & Community Relations Specialist develops an annual plan to organize, coordinate and promote special events which provide funding for critical programs undertaken by The Salvation Army in Springfield and Clark County including a robust annual Christmas distribution. The position works closely with the Corps officers to identify opportunities for marketing, community relations and recruiting local volunteers.  The Special Events & Community Relations Specialist will work closely with the Divisional Development Director when major gift level and gift planning donors are identified for further cultivation. May represent The Salvation Army at community events to establish and maintain strong working relationships with key community leaders. Adheres to The Salvation Army branding guidelines and code of ethics established for Community Relations Departments in The Eastern Territory.

Responsibilities

MAJOR DUTIES:

•  Seeks to establish engaging special events for the Springfield Corps to promote current activities and programming to increase awareness and keep the public informed of current and future events.
• Manages social media accounts and updates the website for timely and accurate information about the activities at The Springfield Corps Community Worship and Service Center.
• Works closely with DHQ to move identified giving prospects to Donor Relations Directors and/or Gift Planning Director to grow individual donor relationships.
• Attend quarterly meetings with the Divisional Director of Development and Corps Officers to provide support and connection with DHQ CRD operations and standards for the Division and Territory and makes you aware of any updates/changes to policy and procedure.
• Hold The Salvation Army brand (insignia) in high regard and always represent it professionally as directed in the orders and regulations of The Salvation Army.
• Responsible for Coordinate the Christmas fundraising overall effort. This includes the seasonally supervisory duties over a kettle coordinator, organizing the Season of Giving luncheon, and attending any local events as requested and representing The Salvation Army in a professional manner at any other seasonal events which could build relationships with local organizations and individuals.

OTHER DUTIES:

• Adheres to all policies set forth in The Salvation Army Handbook for Employees.
• Works closely with DHQ to move identified giving prospects to Donor Relations Directors and/or Gift Planning Director to grow individual donor relationships.
• Attend quarterly meetings with the Divisional Director of Development and Corps Officers to provide support and connection with DHQ CRD operations and standards for the Division and Territory and makes you aware of any updates/changes to policy and procedure.
• Maintains the confidentiality of all information received in his/her position and shall not, at time of termination of employment, remove such records, documents, software or other programs which are and shall remain the property of The Salvation
• Complies with guidelines relating to activity and productivity reporting including, but not limited to, periodic personnel and activity reviews with supervisory officer in addition to an annual review.
• Participates in National Field Calls and implements relevant topics to the Springfield Community via The Salvation Army.

Qualifications

• Must embrace, support and reflect The Salvation Army’s mission and values as a community representative of The Salvation Army
• Bachelor’s degree or 2-4 years’ experience, preferably in a non-profit setting
• Demonstration of social media skills and engaging copy for outfacing engagement
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; especially strong proof-reading skills
• Detail oriented, adaptable, organized and demonstrated ability to successfully manage multiple projects and tasks with grace and professionalism. 
• Ability to problem solve, think strategically and creatively, is goal oriented with good follow through
• Proficient in Word, Excel, Publisher, Mail Merge, Power Point and internet searches, required.
• Previous experience with a donor software system and website management preferred.
• Must have a valid driver's license with the ability to obtain and maintain driving privileges per Salvation Army insurance standards.
• Upbeat, “can-do” demeanor

The Salvation Army’s Mission StatementThe Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church.Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God.Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christand to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.