Development and Communications Officer

Job Description:

The Stars for Life Foundation is looking for a Development and Communications Officer. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Development and Communications Officer will cultivate and secure philanthropic partnerships, manage donor relationships, and craft dynamic fundraising campaigns. It is an exciting time of growth for our organization as we expand our services and housing options, and the Development/Communications Officer will be the cornerstone of our growth and longevity. This position demands a proactive and innovative individual who is passionate about connecting with the community, identifying funding opportunities, and driving forward our vision through effective relationships and communications.

The Stars for Life Foundation for Autism is a Not-for-Profit Registered Charity, providing “Lifelong Living and Learning Opportunities” for young adults and adults with  an autism spectrum disorders. This includes day programming, transitional and long-term housing and other initiatives aimed at keeping young people with autism spectrum disorder fully included in their community.

Primary Responsibilities include:

• Serve as a spokesperson for the organization, in collaboration with the President of the Board, and build strong relationships with NGOs, government partners, funders, families, and other stakeholders.
• Lead the development and implementation of fundraising strategies to strengthen the organization’s financial sustainability and support its strategic priorities.
• Identify, research, and pursue new funding opportunities, including government programs, grants, foundations, corporate partnerships, and other sources.
• Develop and manage grant applications, proposals, reporting, fundraising campaigns, and events.
• Develop and monitor fundraising budgets, track results, and report on key fundraising performance and metrics.
• Lead communications and social media activities to promote the organization, its programs, events, and impact.

Qualifications

• Degree in Business Administration, Communications, Development, a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 3–5 years of experience in fundraising, development, communications, marketing, or a related role, preferably within a non-profit organization.
• Proven track record of achieving fundraising goals and securing grants and other funding.
• Strong knowledge and experience in grant writing, donor relations, fundraising, and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong communications and public relations skills, with the ability to develop clear, compelling messaging that reflects the organization’s mission, values, and impact.
• Experience developing and implementing communications strategies across multiple channels, including social media, websites, newsletters, and other digital and print communications.
• Experience planning and managing fundraising events, campaigns, and public engagement initiatives.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and social media platforms; experience with website content management and basic graphic design is an asset.
• Established network and relationships within the philanthropic, community, or funding sectors is an asset.
• Training or experience working with adults with autism is an asset.
• Valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation.
• A criminal record check is required due to the confidential nature of the role, financial responsibilities, and work with vulnerable individuals.

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