External & Community Relations Specialist

Description & Requirements

External & Community Relations Specialist (Hybrid | In-Office 3x/Week) The External & Community Relations Specialist plays a pivotal role in advancing the mission of the foundation by executing peer-to-peer fundraising programs, branded walk events, third-party partnerships, and community outreach campaigns. This position bridges strategic planning with on-the-ground implementation, serving as a key driver of marketing, volunteer engagement, sponsor development, and participant stewardship. The ideal candidate has advanced digital proficiency and thrives in mission-driven environments where impact, execution, and relationships are equally valued. Success in this role is defined by growing participation and returning walk teams, delivering exceptional events on time and within budget, expanding sponsor and community partnerships, maintaining accurate and compliant financial reporting, and creating an engaging volunteer experience that drives a 70% or higher retention rate. Best-in-Class Benefits and Culture: Our client values their employees’ time and effort. They offer competitive compensation of $70,000-$80,000 annually, depending on experience, and an extensive benefits package to enhance their commitment to your success. Our client’s benefits package includes: Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance provided Robust retirement planning: Retirement plan available with employer matching Financial security: Life and disability insurance for added protection Flexible financial options: Health savings and flexible spending accounts offered Well-being and work-life balance: Paid time off and hybrid work provided Plus, they work to maintain the best possible environment for their employees, where people can learn and grow with the company. They strive to provide a collaborative environment where everyone feels encouraged to contribute to their processes, decisions, planning, and culture. To thrive/succeed as the External & Community Relations Specialist, you should have a: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in nonprofit management, event coordination, marketing, or fundraising. 4–6 years of experience in nonprofit fundraising, event planning, community outreach, or peer-to-peer fundraising, with a proven ability to manage multiple projects and priorities. Proficiency with Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, Canva, and CRM or fundraising platforms; experience with Virtuous, Funraisin, and Asana is preferred. Strong written and verbal communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills, with exceptional attention to detail and a collaborative, solution-oriented approach. Willingness to travel and work occasional evenings and weekends to support events, community engagement, and regional outreach activities. Your responsibilities as the External & Community Relations Specialist will include: Coordinate the planning and execution of peer-to-peer fundraising events, branded walks, and community partnerships, ensuring seamless logistics, vendor management, and day-of operations. Support and coach fundraisers, volunteers, and community partners by providing resources, engagement strategies, and ongoing stewardship to drive participation and fundraising success. Recruit, onboard, and manage volunteers while fostering a positive volunteer experience through training, recognition, and re-engagement initiatives. Cultivate relationships with local sponsors, corporate partners, and community organizations to expand outreach, strengthen partnerships, and increase financial support. Collaborate with Marketing and Communications to implement localized promotional campaigns, customize event collateral, and increase community awareness through digital, print, and earned media. Maintain accurate event, fundraising, financial, and participant data across multiple platforms, while tracking budgets, expenses, sponsorships, and performance metrics to support operational