Community Engagement

The Community Engagement & Development Representative serves as a visible ambassador of CTF Illinois, fostering partnerships, increasing public awareness, and advancing community connections that support our mission. This position will play a key role in strengthening CTF Illinois' presence throughout the region, cultivating relationships that lead to volunteerism, employment opportunities, sponsorships, and philanthropic support.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Serve as a visible and active representative of CTF Illinois at community events, meetings, and public gatherings.
• Deliver engaging presentations to civic groups, schools, service clubs, faith communities, and businesses to promote CTF Illinois' mission and impact.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with community leaders, media outlets, service organizations, elected officials, and local businesses.
• Partner with CTF Illinois leadership and social media teams to coordinate outreach efforts and share success stories.
• Promote the CTF Illinois brand, showcasing the talents, achievements, and contributions of the individuals we support.
• Collaborate with area businesses to develop employment and partnership opportunities for individuals with IDD.
• Identify and pursue partnership, sponsorship, donor, and volunteer opportunities to advance organizational goals.
• Arrange and coordinate community tours, visits, and introductions for CTF Illinois leadership and stakeholders.
• Strengthen visibility through local media and civic networks to build enthusiasm for our mission.
• Work closely with the Development and Communications teams to share impactful stories, photos, and updates.
• Cultivate lasting community relationships that encourage advocacy, philanthropy, and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Nonprofit Management, or related field preferred.
• 2–4 years of experience in community relations, public engagement, or development work (nonprofit experience preferred).
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to build relationships with diverse audiences and represent CTF Illinois in a professional and engaging manner.
• Strong organizational and networking skills with an understanding of local community dynamics.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and social media platforms.
• Valid Drivers License w/clean driving record.
• Must have reliable transportation and the ability to travel throughout assigned regions.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Deep knowledge of and established connections within the Central and Southeastern Illinois communities.
• Excellent communication, networking, and public speaking skills.
• Professional demeanor with a passion for advocacy, inclusion, and community engagement.
• Experience in development, fundraising, marketing, or public/civic engagement preferred.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Work Environment

• Location: Central & Southeastern Illinois (Charleston, Mattoon, Olney, Lincoln, and surrounding areas).
• Approximately 1 – 1.5 days per week (some weekends may be required; flexible scheduling to accomplish goals)