Communications Associate

 

Venice Community Housing (VCH) supports and builds equitable and inclusive communities by providing affordable housing with supportive services, education, employment programs, and public policy advocacy that advances racial and economic justice. VCH is a community-based nonprofit organization engaged in a variety of housing and community development programs. VCH owns and manages 346 units of affordable and supportive housing, as well as 28 units of interim housing, and is in a period of growth with an additional 400 units in predevelopment and/or construction stages.

The Communications Associate will play a key role in advancing our mission by developing and implementing effective communication strategies. Reporting to the Development and Communications Director, this position is responsible for external communications, such as creating multi-channel content, managing social media, engaging with media, and maintaining our website. The ideal candidate will be passionate about housing, economic, and racial equity, and possess strong written, verbal, and interpersonal skills. Some evenings and weekends are required.

This position will report directly to the Director of Development and Communications. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Create compelling written and visual content, including writing, editing, and designing material for various communication channels, such as newsletters, press releases, website, blog posts, and other publicity materials, ensuring alignment with the organization’s strategic goals.
• Lead the development and execution of media relations and targeted outreach strategies to increase external engagement, build partnerships, and enhance the organization’s visibility.
• Oversee social media presence, leading the development and implementation of innovative social media strategies that engage and grow the audience while fostering deeper connections with stakeholders.
• Assist with all aspects of special event planning, including coordination, strategic outreach, and execution of VCH’s fundraising and advocacy events, ensuring these efforts align with broader organizational objectives.
• Support the development team in donor stewardship, cultivation, and campaigns, utilizing strategic communication to promote and advance the organization’s mission.
• Recruit, train, and collaborate with volunteers on development and communication-related projects, ensuring their efforts align with the organization’s outreach strategies.
• Represent VCH and the Development Department at various internal and external meetings, professional, community, and social events, strategically positioning the organization in these settings.
• Actively participate in VCH’s community engagement and advocacy efforts, contributing to the strategic outreach and relationship-building with key stakeholders.
• Other duties as assigned, with a focus on supporting the organization’s strategic communication and outreach goals.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree Communications, Journalism, or a related field (experience may substitute for the educational requirement)
• Communications Associate
• Proficient with PC, Microsoft Word, Excel, WordPress and Adobe Creative Suite and/or Photoshop software
• At least 1 year of experience in communications, marketing, or a directly related field.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience in managing external relations, including media outreach, stakeholder engagement, and building relationships with community partners and external organizations.
• Pass criminal and driving background checks.
• Valid California driver’s license and have access to reliable transportation in order to travel to off-site meetings, trainings, and events.
• Independent worker and thinker.
• Ability to plan, organize and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to work with a small team and in cooperation with volunteer committees and key organizational stakeholders.
• Ability to work with diverse groups of people.
• Experience with community-based non-profits.

SALARY:

$55,000 to $60,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications; benefits include medical, dental, vision, basic life, voluntary life, Aflac, 403 (b), vacation, sick time, 14 holidays and 2 personal days. This is a full-time, non-exempt position. Hybrid schedule may be available.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Job frequently requires sitting for extended periods of time entering data into a computer and handling objects with hands. Job occasionally requires standing, walking, reaching, talking, driving, hearing, and lifting up to 25 pounds. Occasionally ascends/descends stairs, move inside and outside the office, apartments, buildings, etc. Occasionally moves objects weighing up to 25 pounds. Required to have visual acuity to perform the following tasks: operate a motor vehicle, view a computer terminal, see information in print and/or electronically, reading, and writing.