Community Relations Manager

POSITION SUMMARY

The Community Relations Manager is a high-impact role at the heart of our mission. You will serve as a connector between United Way of Eastern LaSalle County and the communities we serve — building relationships, amplifying our story, driving volunteerism, and stewarding the programs that directly support local youth and seniors.

This is a role for someone who is equally comfortable behind a keyboard crafting a compelling donor update and standing at a podium representing our organization at a community event. You thrive in a collaborative, small-office environment where your initiative and creativity have a direct and visible impact.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Communications & Marketing

•     Lead multi-channel digital marketing efforts including email newsletters, social media, and digital campaigns that grow our reach and deepen community engagement.

•     Design and produce compelling promotional materials — posters, flyers, digital graphics — for community programs and events.

•     Draft impact reports, donor communications, and press releases telling the story of our mission with clarity and authenticity.

•     Serve as a point of contact for donors and community volunteers, cultivating relationships that support long-term organizational growth.

Digital Operations & Technology

•     Maintain and optimize organizational databases and digital tools including Jotform, Constant Contact, and Salesforce/CRM systems.

•     Develop and manage digital platforms or applications that streamline volunteer coordination and donor engagement workflows.

Development & Community Relations

•     Represent United Way as an ambassador at community events, networking groups, and public speaking engagements, promoting our programs and mission with enthusiasm.

•     Collaborate closely with the Executive Director to align engagement strategies with fundraising targets and organizational priorities.

•     Support donor stewardship through personalized outreach, follow-ups, and recognition efforts that make donors feel valued.

•     Lead and support the planning and execution of large-scale community service days, fundraising events, and milestone celebrations.

•     Cultivate and maintain partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, schools, and civic organizations to expand our community footprint.

Program Coordination & Impact Storytelling

•     Coordinate logistics for specialized community program initiatives, ensuring smooth execution and positive participant experiences.

•     Manage communication with external program partners — local businesses, nonprofits, and schools — to sustain and grow collaborative initiatives.

•     Transform program data and participant outcomes into compelling narratives that demonstrate impact, build donor trust, and advance our mission.

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience

3–5 years in community engagement, nonprofit management, marketing, or a closely related field

Communication

Demonstrated ability to communicate persuasively across written, verbal, and digital channels to engage donors, volunteers, and community partners

Project Management

Proven track record of managing multiple concurrent programs with strong attention to detail and follow-through

Tech Proficiency

Comfortable with digital tools such as Constant Contact, Jotform, Salesforce/CRM platforms, and social media management

Local Knowledge

Familiarity with Eastern LaSalle County communities and their unique needs is strongly preferred

Mission Alignment

Genuine passion for community service and commitment to the United Way mission

WHY JOIN US

United Way of Eastern LaSalle County is a small, agile, mission-driven organization where your work is never abstract — you will see the direct results of your efforts in the lives of children and seniors across our community. This role offers:

•     Strategic influence: play a key role in building and executing our community engagement strategy.

•     Meaningful impact: every program you coordinate and every relationship you build strengthens the fabric of our community.

•     Collaborative culture: partner closely with the Executive Director to work toward the Board's shared vision for our community — this is a team effort, with clear and supportive direction guiding the way.

•     Generous paid time off. Compensation: $40,000 , commensurate with experience

Equal Employment Opportunity

United Way of Eastern LaSalle County is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.