Development and Communication Associate

Western States Center is looking for an innovative individual with a strong interest in fundraising and passion for social justice to help The Center carry out our annual development and communication plan.

Organizational Background: Western States Center’s mission is to advance social, economic, racial and environmental justice in the West. The Center works with hundreds of organizers, grassroots organizations and constituency groups in the eight-state region of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Nevada and Utah. The Center is a dynamic training, organizing and movement building organization based in Portland, Oregon. More information is available on our website, www.westernstatescenter.org

This Position:

The Development and Communication Associate helps The Center to grow our donor base by implementing plans and coordinating fundraising projects. The person in this position should seek out creative ways to engage our current donors and constituencies. Attention to detail, a high level of organization and the ability to track multiple projects simultaneously are required. Demonstrated commitment to social justice and to development for the long haul is a must.

Core responsibilities:

• Help to carry out our annual development plan that includes mail and electronic fundraising campaigns, annual fundraiser at CSTI (Community Strategic Training Initiative), house parties, and other special events. • Support collection and accuracy of information, maintain database and generate reports. • Process donations, grants and other revenue, manage donor acknowledgements, and maintain donor files. • Coordinate electronic and print newsletters and publicity materials. • Maintain website content and assist in social network and blog updates. • Manage communication files including photo, audio and video management and news clippings. • Assist development of fundraising and program content and materials. • Participate in organizational planning and fundraising cultivation. • Contribute to a healthy organizational and fundraising culture and support a positive work environment.

Skills and Experience:

• 1+ years experience in grassroots fundraising. • Creative problem-solving and ability to work in a fast-paced environment and on multiple projects simultaneously. • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work independently as well as work closely and constructively with others. • Strong desire to grow in the development field. • Attention to detail and highly organized. • Excellent verbal and writing communication skills. • Proficient in word processing, spreadsheets, and email. • Familiar with or have a desire to learn databases, layout and design software, social networking tools, content management systems and other new media. • Experience in graphic design and layout a plus. • A positive attitude and a sense of humor.

This new staff person will report to the Development and Communication Director.

How to apply:

Please by email the documents listed below to Candice Haster at [email protected] no later than Monday, September 27, 2010. • Cover letter which includes your interest and unique qualifications for this position • Resume • Three professional references • An essay of no more than three pages addressing the following questions: 1. Describe in two to three paragraphs your interests in fundraising and development work for the long haul. 2. Share a brief story that illustrates how you have used creative solutions to solve a problem. 3. Western States Center’s mission is to advance issues of equity and we work to challenge racism, homophobia, transphobia and sexism. Write a brief statement as to how these values relate to your own interests in social change work.

Complete applications will have all four components. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Western States Center is an EEO employer and encourages applications from women, people of color, lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people.