The Community Outreach Specialist serves as the primary liaison between the organization and the communities it serves. This position is responsible for building relationships with residents, schools, community organizations, businesses, and local stakeholders to increase awareness of programs, recruit participants, and strengthen community engagement. The Community Outreach Specialist develops and implements outreach strategies, coordinates events, promotes organizational initiatives, and connects individuals with available resources and services. This role plays a vital part in advancing the organization's mission by fostering trust, collaboration, and meaningful partnerships that expand program impact.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement community outreach and engagement strategies.
- Build and maintain partnerships with schools, nonprofits, businesses, faith-based organizations, and community leaders.
- Recruit participants for organizational programs, workshops, and special events.
- Represent the organization at community meetings, resource fairs, networking events, and public engagements.
- Conduct presentations to promote programs and available services.
- Coordinate outreach campaigns, volunteer opportunities, and community initiatives.
- Maintain accurate records of outreach activities, partnerships, referrals, and participant engagement.
- Collaborate with program staff to identify community needs and improve service delivery.
- Assist with marketing efforts through social media, newsletters, and promotional materials.
- Prepare outreach reports and support grant reporting by documenting community impact and engagement outcomes.
Qualifications:
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Social Work, Community Development, Public Health, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in community outreach, public engagement, nonprofit programs, or customer relations.
- Excellent interpersonal, public speaking, and relationship-building skills.
- Strong organizational and time management abilities.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and social media platforms.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings or weekends for community events as needed.
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred.
This position is well-suited for nonprofit organizations like Development and Enrichment Project (DEP), where community engagement, participant recruitment, and partnership development are essential to expanding workforce development, youth enrichment, STEM education, media outreach, and violence prevention initiatives.
Pay: $14,000.00 - $20,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Westchester, IL 60154
