Communications and Development Specialist

About Hopewell

Our Vision : A community where all people can reach their full potential in supportive and caring environments.

Our Mission : Enrich the lives of individuals with a range of physical and developmental abilities to experience a full life.

Core Values : Transparency / Innovation / Excellence / Person Centred / Accountability

Hopewell is a not-for-profit registered charity governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. Hopewell was established outside of Guelph, Ontario in Ariss in 1983 by John and Johanna Oosterhuis as a goodwill gesture to help families manage support for their child. The agency has grown significantly since then and we now have administrative space plus 7 homes where we provide support - we serve over 500 families a year! Our services fit into three pillars: Respite, Recreational and Residential and we have a solid reputation for providing exceptional service to the individuals we support and their families.

About the opportunity

The Communications and Development Specialist at Hopewell plays a critical role in crafting and overseeing the organization's communication and marketing strategies, with a primary focus on enhancing the agency's public profile. This role is key to developing engaging marketing materials, managing digital communication platforms such as social media and the website, and creating compelling sponsorship packages. While the emphasis is on communications, the specialist will also contribute to fundraising by maintaining current donor databases and supporting ongoing fundraising campaigns. This position requires a high degree of collaboration with various departments and demands strong relationship-building skills to effectively connect with staff, families, and individuals supported by Hopewell.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead the creation of marketing materials and sponsorship packages to enhance fundraising efforts and promote Hopewell's programs, ensuring that all materials effectively communicate the impact of Hopewell's work and resonate with key audiences.
• Manage the organization's website and social media platforms, ensuring content is current, engaging, and aligned with Hopewell's mission, vision, and values. This includes updating the website to meet AODA standards, ensuring accessibility for all users.
• Develop and execute communication strategies for newsletters and reports tailored to various key stakeholders, including donors, families, and community partners. These communications should not only inform but also engage and inspire stakeholders, reinforcing their connection to Hopewell.

Campaign and Fundraising Support :

• Design and produce materials for fundraising campaigns, working closely with the development team to ensure coherence and impact.
• Assist in the planning and execution of fundraising campaigns, providing strategic content and follow-up materials.
• Collaborate with all departments to gather information and ensure the alignment of communications and marketing strategies with program goals and activities.
• Build and maintain relationships with staff, families, and the individuals supported by Hopewell, incorporating their stories and experiences into communication materials.
• Conduct interviews with families and individuals supported by Hopewell as needed to create authentic and impactful content.

Qualifications :

• Bachelor's degree in marketing, Communications, Nonprofit Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of five years of experience in marketing, communications, or development within a nonprofit setting.
• Proven ability to lead marketing and communication efforts, with a strong portfolio of successful materials.
• Exceptional writing and editing skills, with the ability to create engaging and clear content.
• Proficiency in digital marketing and social media management.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively across teams and with diverse groups.
• Experience in interviewing and story gathering, with a sensitive approach to sharing personal stories.
• Must be comfortable working in a dynamic environment and capable of handling multiple priorities.
• Willingness to work flexible hours as needed to support events and campaign deadlines.

INTERESTED IN TAKING ON THIS EXCITING CHALLENGE?

If this opportunity is of interest, and you feel you are qualified, please submit your resume and cover letter.

Hopewell strives to be an inclusive and safe space for all, and to accurately reflect the diversity of the various stakeholders that we serve. We strongly encourage expressions of interest from people who are members of marginalized and / or underserved / underrepresented communities, especially individuals who identify with: First Nations, Metis, or Inuit, or people of color; diverse gender and sexual identities (including LGBTQ2+); people living with dis / ability.

Successful applicants will be required to submit to a Police Records Check at the vulnerable sector level as part of the offer process.

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Hopewell is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all groups. Hopewell offers accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If you are contacted by us regarding this position, please advise if you require accommodations.