Colorado Nonprofit Association

Capacity Building and Sustainability Specialist | AmeriCorps VISTA Member

AmeriCorps VISTA Opportunity in Colorado Springs, CO!

The Capacity Building and Sustainability Specialist is responsible for expanding Junior Achievement of Southern Colorado’s reach and impact through strategic partnership development and funding initiatives. This role requires a proactive approach to identifying and cultivating relationships with potential community partners, donors, and funding agencies. The Specialist will work to secure financial support and resources necessary for the growth and sustainability of Junior Achievement’s anti-poverty programs. By leveraging these partnerships and funding opportunities, the Specialist will play a crucial role in enabling Junior Achievement to meet its mission objectives and serve the Greater Colorado community more effectively. Reporting to the Philanthropic Partnerships Manager, the Specialist will focus on building the capacity of the organization to sustain and expand its impact. The role will be 30 hours/week with remote flexibility and hybrid options.

Funding Strategy Development: Develop and implement a targeted funding strategy that includes grant writing, fundraising campaigns, and identifying new funding sources. Focus on securing funds that support anti-poverty initiatives and educational programs.
Grant Writing and Management: Research potential grants and prepare compelling proposals. Manage grant reporting requirements and maintain positive relationships with funders by demonstrating the impact of their support on reducing poverty.
Partnership Development: Identify, engage, and develop strategic partnerships with local businesses, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and educational institutions. These partnerships should aim to enhance program offerings, increase funding opportunities, and expand Junior Achievement’s reach within low-income communities.
Community Engagement: Actively participate in community events and networks to raise awareness of Junior Achievement’s mission and programs. Leverage these engagements to identify potential partners and donors who share a commitment to JA’s mission.
Capacity Building for Sustainability: Work with partners and funders to build capacity for sustainable growth. Develop strategies for long-term partnerships, aligning resources with program needs, and ensuring programs are designed with sustainability in mind.
Funding and Partnership Reporting: Monitor and report on the progress of funding and partnership initiatives. Prepare detailed reports for internal and external stakeholders that highlight successes, challenges, and the impact of partnerships and funding on program outcomes.
Collaboration and Coordination: Work closely with program teams to ensure that funding strategies and partnerships support program goals and organizational needs. Facilitate communication between Junior Achievement staff, partners, and funders to ensure alignment and maximize impact.
Donor Engagement and Stewardship: Develop and implement strategies to engage and steward individual and corporate donors. Create meaningful opportunities for donors to connect with Junior Achievement’s anti-poverty work and see the impact of their contributions.

If you have many of the following qualifications, we’d love to hear from you:
1. Strong Communication Skills: Effective oral and written communication abilities to engage with diverse stakeholders.
2. Organizational Skills: Excellent time management and ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently.
3. Community Engagement: Experience in community outreach, volunteer management, or partnership development.
4. Adaptability and Problem-Solving: Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and find creative solutions to challenges.
5. Passion for Education and Poverty Alleviation: A demonstrated commitment to improving educational outcomes and reducing poverty.
6. Data Management and Analysis: Proficiency in using data management tools (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets) to collect, analyze, and report data accurately.
7. Grant Writing and Fundraising: Experience in researching, writing, and managing grants, as well as developing and executing fundraising campaigns.
8. Project Management: Ability to use project management tools to plan, track, and manage project activities and timelines.
9. Digital Literacy: Proficiency in using digital tools and platforms (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, CRM systems) for communication, collaboration, and documentation.
10. Public Speaking and Presentation Skills: Ability to deliver engaging presentations and training sessions to diverse audiences, including educators, volunteers, and community members.