Associate Director of Communications & External Affairs

Job Title: Associate Director of Communications & External Affairs Reports to:

Vice President of Development Salary:

$75,000 annually

Is this your next job Read the full description below to find out, and do not hesitate to make an application. Job Type:

Full-time, Exempt (Non-Bargaining Unit Position) La Casa Norte’s mission is to serve youth and families experiencing homelessness, providing housing, services, and advocacy to build stability, dignity, and opportunity. We are seeking a

strategic and dynamic communications leader

to elevate our public profile, expand donor engagement, and drive advocacy efforts. Position Overview The Associate Director of Communications & External Affairs will lead La Casa Norte’s communications, media relations, fundraising storytelling, and advocacy efforts, ensuring a compelling and consistent narrative that advances our mission. This position serves as a key spokesperson for La Casa Norte, representing the organization in media interviews, public forums, and donor engagements. Additionally, the role plays a critical part in fundraising strategy, donor communications, and campaign development in collaboration with the Development team. The Associate Director will oversee digital media, content strategy, and public relations efforts, ensuring alignment with fundraising goals and policy priorities. Key Responsibilities & Impact Goals Communications & Media Relations Develop and execute a strategic communications plan to enhance La Casa Norte’s visibility and public engagement. Serve as the organization’s primary media spokesperson, providing interviews and preparing leadership for public appearances. Build and maintain relationships with journalists and media outlets, securing at least 10 media placements annually in local and national publications. Draft and distribute press releases, op-eds, and key messaging to advance La Casa Norte’s mission. Ensure consistent messaging across all platforms, including print, digital, and social media. Work closely with the Development team to create compelling donor communications, impact reports, and fundraising materials. Develop and execute storytelling campaigns that inspire donor engagement and philanthropic support. Support fundraising events, including sponsorship outreach, promotional strategies, and media relations to enhance revenue and donor retention. Assist in grant writing, funder reports, and donor stewardship materials (approximately 15% of role). Lead the creation of La Casa Norte’s annual report, ensuring alignment with fundraising and impact storytelling. Community Engagement & Partnerships Strengthen partnerships with advocacy groups, government agencies, and community organizations to expand impact and visibility. Represent La Casa Norte at public events, fundraising initiatives, and policy discussions. Develop engagement strategies that amplify the voices of youth and families experiencing homelessness and elevate the organization’s advocacy efforts. Policy & Advocacy Monitor local, state, and federal policies affecting housing, homelessness, and immigrant communities. Develop policy briefs and advocacy campaigns to influence decision-makers and mobilize community action. Work closely with coalition partners and leadership to shape policy priorities and drive systemic change. Oversee social media, website management, and email marketing strategy to drive engagement and fundraising. Develop compelling multimedia content that highlights La Casa Norte’s impact, advocacy efforts, and donor opportunities. Track key performance metrics to refine digital strategies and increase audience reach by at least 20% annually. Qualifications & Skills Required: 5+ years of experience in communications, fundraising, public relations, or advocacy. Strong public speaking and media relations skills, with experience serving as an organizational spokesperson. Proven success in storytelling for fundraising, donor engagement, or advocacy campaigns. Expertise in media relations, policy advocacy, and community engagement strategies. Exceptional writing skills, with experience crafting press releases, donor reports, and op-eds. Strong project management and leadership skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Passionate commitment to social justice, housing equity, and community empowerment. Preferred: Master’s degree

in Communications, Public Relations, Public Policy, or a related field. Compensation and Benefits Package Includes: Paid Time Off:

14 vacation days per year. Personal Days:

7 personal days per year (may be carried over into the following year but must be used by December 31 of that year). Holidays:

10 paid holidays annually. Sick Leave:

6 sick days per year (up to 20 hours of unused sick time may be carried over year to year). Health Insurance:

Medical coverage through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (HMO or PPO options available). Dental and Vision Insurance:

Comprehensive coverage options available. Retirement Savings:

403(b) retirement savings plan. Life Insurance:

$25,000 in basic term life insurance (provided at no cost to the employee). Disability Insurance:

Long-term disability insurance (provided at no cost to the employee). Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA):

Options for pre-tax savings on eligible healthcare, transit, and dependent care expenses. Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

Confidential support and resources for employees. Payroll:

Direct deposit payroll for convenience.

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