Community Outreach and Support Specialist

JOB SUMMARY
If you are looking for a positive work environment where you can make a difference in other people’s lives every day, then this is the job for you!  Voluntary Action Center is looking for a full-time service minded professional to join our LaSalle team as we continue to grow the services we provide in that region.  For over 20 years we have been dedicated to promoting dignity, health, and self-sufficiency by providing high quality nutrition services to individuals with disabilities and seniors within our communities. 

Reporting to our Meals on Wheels Manager, the Community Outreach and Support Specialist will work closely with the Marketing and Outreach Manager supporting initiatives to expand the local donor base for the LaSalle Nutrition Program. This will include networking with local chambers, business leaders and government bodies in an effort to broaden the support base, visibility and value our organization brings to the community of LaSalle.  This role will interact with our clients by performing in-person assessments ensuring we are providing services to those that qualify.   

EXAMPLES OF MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

• Engage in community events such as business after hours, chamber events, local job fairs or business expos promoting our mission and services.
• Regularly visit and network with business owners and local government officials in an effort to identify and attain grant opportunities.
• Work with the Marketing Manager to identify possible partnerships in the community of LaSalle.
• Assist in coordinating fundraising events and developing promotional materials.
• Perform in-person assessments for the Meals on Wheels program, as directed.
• Assist with Meals on Wheels re-assessments.
• Advises and assists seniors in the community on appropriate resources and services that are available to them in the community.
• Prepares monthly, quarterly, or annual reports as needed; ensures accuracy, thoroughness, and timely completion.
• Other duties as assigned. 

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing or social services, preferred.
• Experience in community and/or public relations, as well as a general knowledge of event planning and fundraising, highly preferred.
• Clean driving record and a valid Illinois driver's license is required.
• 2+ years of previous work experience in a comparable social service or not-for-profit agency performing related responsibilities and tasks.
• MS Word and Social Media Platform proficiency.
• Strong work ethic and a high level of professionalism is required.
• Ability to work evenings or weekends if required. 
• Must have a reliable vehicle.

• Knowledge of basic business operations, policies, and procedures, especially marketing plans and social media policies.
• Working knowledge of customer service best practices and procedures.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, including making public and private presentations and preparing comprehensive documents and reports.
• Strong problem-solving, planning, researching, and prioritization of work.
• Ability to multitask, think analytically and think creatively.
• Commitment to serving seniors and persons with disabilities, as well as the best interest for the community.
• Handle highly sensitive confidential matters timely, professionally and with discretion.
• Ability to establish and maintain interpersonal relationships.
• Work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Ability to resolve conflict and negotiate positive outcomes.
• Work well with the public and maintain a positive image for the agency.