Organization Overview 
Girls Inc. inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold. Our comprehensive approach to whole girl development equips girls to navigate gender, economic, and social barriers and grow up healthy, educated, and independent. These positive outcomes are achieved through three core elements: people – trained staff and volunteers who build lasting mentoring relationships; environment – girls-only, physically and emotionally safe spaces where there is a sisterhood of support, high expectations, and mutual respect; and programming – research-based, hands-on and minds-on, age-appropriate programs that meet the needs of today’s girls. 

Informed by girls and their families, Girls Inc. of Chicago also advocates for legislation and policies to increase opportunities for all girls and address the systemic barriers that impede girls’ success, particularly girls in low-income communities and girls of color. 

Girls Inc. of Chicago, incorporated in November 2016, is one of the newest affiliates of the network of Girls Inc. organizations with the shared mission to inspire girls to be strong, smart, and bold. 

Position Overview: Girls Inc. of Chicago is seeking a highly motivated and talented individual to join our nonprofit organization as a Grant Writing and Communications Specialist. This vital role will be responsible for securing funding through effective grant writing and engaging in strategic communication efforts. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in grant writing, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and a passion for our organization’s mission. This role reports to the Director of Development.  

Primary Responsibilities: 

• Grant Writing: Prepare and submit grant proposals to various foundations, corporations, and government agencies to secure funding for the organization’s programs and initiatives. Collaborate with program management and other stakeholders to gather necessary information and data for grant applications. 
• Research and Prospect Identification: Conduct thorough research to identify potential grant opportunities aligned with the organization’s mission and objectives. Stay informed about new funding opportunities and trends in the nonprofit sector. 
• Grant Management: Track and monitor the status of submitted grant proposals, ensuring compliance with all grant requirements and deadlines. Prepare progress reports for grantors, detailing the use and impact of funds received. Collaborate with Programs, Community Engagement, and Finance and Operations departments to submit grant proposals and reporting. 
• Communications Strategy: Develop and implement a comprehensive communications strategy to enhance the organization’s visibility and promote its mission. Utilize various communication channels, including website, social media, newsletters, press releases, and email marketing, to engage donors, supporters, and the wider community. 

• Content Creation: Create compelling and persuasive content for grant applications, fundraising appeals, marketing materials, and other communication platforms. Tailor messages to resonate with specific audiences, showcasing the organization’s impact and success stories. 
• Collaboration and Networking: Collaborate with various departments within the organization to gather information, statistics, and stories for grant proposals and communications. Build and maintain relationships with potential funders, partners, and community stakeholders. 
• Donor Cultivation: Work closely with the development team to identify and cultivate potential donors, sponsors, and strategic partners. Contribute to donor stewardship efforts to maintain positive relationships with existing supporters. 
• Evaluation and Reporting: Participate in the evaluation and measurement of program outcomes and impact. Assist in preparing reports for internal use and external stakeholders, demonstrating the organization’s effectiveness in achieving its mission. 
• And any other duties needed to help drive to our vision, fulfill our mission, and abide by our organization’s values. 

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, nonprofit management, English, journalism, or related field (master’s degree preferred). 
• Proven track record of successful grant writing and securing funding for nonprofit organizations. 
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a keen eye for detail and the ability to tailor messages to diverse audiences. 

• Strong research skills to identify and evaluate potential funding opportunities. 
• Knowledge of grant application processes and grant management best practices. 
• Proficiency in creating and executing communication strategies across various platforms. 
• Familiarity with donor cultivation and stewardship techniques. 
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines. 

• Adept at building and maintaining collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders. 
• Experience working with a diverse populations. 
• Passionate about the mission and vision of the nonprofit organization. 

Highly Preferred: 

• Familiarity with DonorPerfect or similar fundraising software. 
• Experience with Canva and/or the Adobe Suite of design software including InDesign and Illustrator. 
• Proficiency in Word, Power Point, Excel, and Constant Contact. 

Working Conditions: 

This position is based in our nonprofit organization’s office with opportunities for remote work. It may require occasional evening or weekend work during peak periods, such as grant deadlines or fundraising events. 

Join our team of dedicated professionals and make a significant impact on our organization’s growth and the communities we serve. Together, we can work towards creating positive change and advancing our mission to improve lives and make a difference. 

GIRLS INC. IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.