Development and Communications Specialist (0.6 FTE)

We are seeking a Development and Communications professional who is passionate about decolonizing healthcare and advancing the health and wellness equity of Indigenous peoples and the Downtown Eastside (DTES) community.

Kilala Lelum is a dynamic, interdisciplinary, collaborative, and values-driven workplace. We offer integrated primary care and allied health services, Elder-led cultural care, Food as Medicine services, and a range of specialized programs. We provide in-clinic and outreach-based services in ways that endeavor to center Indigenous cultural healing and Ways of Being/Knowing and to be strength-based, trauma-informed, member-centered, and grounded in harm reduction. Our goal is to contribute to a health system that is accessible, safe, culturally grounded, and truly meets the needs and desires of our members.

Job Summary:

The Development & Communications Specialist will perform and coordinate fund-development activities and related communications for Kilala Lelum. This position will work closely with the Executive and Associate Directors, the Leads team, and, at times, external consultants to develop fundraising strategies and plans. The Development & Communications Specialist will implement strategies and plans to build and maintain sustainable revenue and partnerships with private donors, foundations, corporate partners, and government agencies.

The ideal candidate is passionate about our work and is excited to develop and deepen relationships with donors (new and existing), funders, and partners. We are seeking a skilled storyteller and communicator who is able to capture and share our stories in ways that embody our values and clearly articulate our messages.

It would be an asset if the candidate for this role has experience working in a self-directed way to develop and implement fundraising activities and a successful record in grant writing. Knowledge of the existing local, regional, and national funding communities and the ability to guide us in prioritizing, launching, and maintaining a selection of fund development strategies and pathways would also be a significant strength.

Responsibilities:

In consultation with the Executive Director and other senior staff, research and develop short- and long-term strategies and plans for resource development and fundraising initiatives, in alignment with Kilala Lelum’s strategic plan and our need for sustainability and growth.
Develop and implement new fundraising initiatives, such as: annual campaigns (including donations from individuals, corporations, service clubs, foundations, third-party special events, and organization-planned events), capital campaigns, planned giving and bequests, major gifts, and other initiatives as appropriate. Possibility of developing special fundraising events in the future.
Monitor the performance of resource development and fundraising activities and provide guidance and ideas to continually improve our outcomes.
Maintain donor information management systems; ensure that privacy, ethics, and integrity are maintained in relation to donor records for all files and systems.
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with donors (new and existing), corporate sponsors, grant funders, and partners.
Participate in identification and cultivation of prospective supporters; recommend appropriate communication and recognition plans for donors.
Coordinate and collaborate on grant writing/applications.
Promote communication with the public, funders, potential donors, members, corporate partners, staff, and volunteers through newsletters, brochures, social media, and the like.
Maintain the content of the website to ensure it is up to date and accurate.
Undertake other duties (such as ordering marketing materials) and special projects as required/where appropriate.

Qualifications & Skills:

Preference will be given to Indigenous candidates. Experience working with and knowledge of Indigenous peoples and Indigenous culture would be an asset, along with connection to Indigenous communities, people, Nations, and institutions. Completion of a cultural competency training or willingness to participate is required.
Diploma or Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience that involves writing, research, and analysis (please explain in your cover letter).
2+ years experience in a related role (fundraising, marketing, grant writing, communications).
Ability to develop strong relationships with diverse stakeholders (ex: private donors, government representatives, granting organizations). Success and experience in grant writing and reporting an asset.
Strong computer skills (MS Office suite, publishing software, database, digital marketing, social media, etc.).
Excellent oral and written communication, time management skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
The ability to work both independently and within a team environment and to demonstrate a high degree of initiative.
Experience working with Indigenous communities, in health/social nonprofits and/or in the DTES community, is an asset.
Experience leading the development and implementation of fundraising strategies and plans is an asset.

Working Conditions:

Working schedule is flexible between Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm, with preference for a somewhat predictable schedule for 24 hours/week (0.6 FTE).
Work can be completed through a hybrid of at home and office (location 687 Powell Street). Ability to regularly attend meetings in-person is required.

Supervision and Support Provided:

This position is supervised by Kilala Lelum’s Executive Director and the HR & Administrative Lead.

Additional Information:

Successful candidates will be required to complete a Criminal Record Check.
Starting annual salary will be $67,600 (prorated for a 0.6 FTE position), with regularly scheduled annual raises and inflationary adjustments.
Extended health and dental benefits available.
Ideal start date is ASAP.

To Apply:

Please send a resume and cover letter by September 15, 2023 to fleurie.hunter@uihhc.ca. Your cover letter should clearly articulate why you are interested in this role and working with Kilala Lelum, how your background is a good fit for this specific role and our organization, and your current availability and desired schedule. Incomplete applications (those without cover letters) will not be considered. Applications will be accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis and this position may be filled prior to the closing date.