Foundation seeks a full-time Communications Officer

The Communications Officer is responsible for leading the Foundation’s communications and public relations efforts. By developing and implementing clear, accurate, and compelling content across multiple platforms, this individual ensures the community understands and appreciates the Foundation’s role in philanthropy, grantmaking, and local leadership. Working closely with the CEO/COO, Community Relations Committee, and Development Committee, the Communications Officer drives strategies that inspire donors, highlight impact, and bolster the Foundation’s mission.

Primary Responsibilities

1. Communications & Public Relations

Develop and implement a communications strategy and plan aligned with the Foundation’s mission, vision, and strategic goals.
Create press releases, brochures, e-newsletters, and other publications that tell the Foundation’s story and showcase grantmaking impact.

Maintain the Foundation’s website and social media channels, ensuring timely and engaging content.
Serve as the brand champion, reviewing and copy-editing outgoing materials for accuracy and consistency.

2. Donor Engagement

Provide excellent customer service to donors, using CRM systems to track interactions and foster relationships.
Assist with annual appeals and donor campaigns; produce digital and print materials that encourage philanthropic support.
Collaborate with the Program Officer and current donors to gather impact stories for marketing materials, events, and presentations.

3. Events & Committee Support

Coordinate invitations, programs, and on-site assistance for Foundation events.
Prepare and distribute meeting packets, and record minutes for the Community Relations and Development Committees.
Work with college interns on communication projects, providing guidance and oversight.

Preferred Qualifications

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or related field.
Minimum of 3 years of relevant communications or nonprofit experience.

Technical Proficiency

Strong ability in Microsoft Office; proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (or similar), Canva, and email marketing tools (e.g., MailChimp).
Experience managing social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, etc.) and website updates.

Writing & Editing

Excellent writing, storytelling, and editing skills; keen eye for grammar and brand consistency.

Organizational & Interpersonal Skills

Able to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
Strong relationship-building skills; comfortable working with donors, volunteers, and community members.

Passion for Philanthropy

Familiarity with nonprofit operations and a desire to promote philanthropy and community impact.

Wage range: $40,000-$45,000, plus paid time off, health care, group life insurance, and retirement benefit options.

The Foundation: Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation (MPACF) serves as a focal point for philanthropy in Isabella County, Michigan. The mission of MPACF is to enhance the quality of life for all citizens of Isabella County, now and for generations to come, by attracting and holding permanent endowed funds from a wide range of donors, addressing needs through grantmaking, and providing leadership on key community issues.

Interested? Please email Liz Conway, CEO/COO at lconway@mpacf.org with “Communications Officer” in the subject line. Include 1) a resume, 2) a cover letter addressing relevant experience and why you are interested in this position, 3) one recent sample of your storytelling, and 4) a list of three references. No hard copy submissions, please. For best consideration please apply before January 21, 2025.

The position will remain open until filled. The Foundation reserves the right to close the recruitment process once a sufficient applicant pool has been identified.

MPACF is an equal-opportunity employer.

Community Foundation seeking Communications Officer